Any one got any ideas on installing hardwood over a concrete slab, I know it’s far from an ideal situation but clients want ahat they want, and its hardwood, not engineered flooring.
Any one got any ideas on installing hardwood over a concrete slab, I know it’s far from an ideal situation but clients want ahat they want, and its hardwood, not engineered flooring.
The crew discusses finding rot when remodeling, challenges installing custom shower panels, and how to prevent subs and suppliers from sabotaging builds.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial NowDig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.
Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox
Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.
Start Your Free TrialGet complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.
Already a member? Log in
Replies
from the lumber liquidators website:
Q- Can I have a solid 3/4" hardwood glued to concrete?
You'll find some retailers will say yes. However, those that have dealt exclusively in hardwood flooring for some time will say no. In recent times some of the big box stores and adhesive manufacturers have been advocating this procedure. Only time will tell if it's a viable procedure, but it's safe to find an alternative.
Q- What kind of hardwoods can I place on concrete subfloors?
If moisture conditions are acceptable, there are three types of wood products available on concrete sub floors: engineered glue down, engineered floating floor, and 3/8 or 1/2 solid glue down. An engineered glue down is glued directly to the concrete slab. On an engineered floating floor, the tongue and groove are glued together and floated over a foam pad. Floating floors are also available in a glueless click together style. Lumber Liquidators recommends Bostik Best adhesive with the Bostik MVP (Moisture Vapor Protection) for 3/8 and 1/2 solid glue down. With Bostik Best adhesive and Bostik MVP products, a direct glue down is possible.
More traditional 3/4" solid hardwoods on concrete can be accomplished with the addition of a plywood subfloor, used as a nailing base over the concrete. However, this raises problems with door entries and other items. Overall vertical height of the new floor will increase by 1 1/2 inches. Unfinished engineered hardwood floors eliminate vertical height issues and can be stained or finished to any desires.