Hello all! I could use some advice.

My brother was an unfortunate recipient of Hurricane Katrina. I am a remodeler in the northern states and am doing my best to advise long distance. His first level was basically destroyed due to water damage. He had hardwood flooring installed directly to the concrete slab and this made it a bear to remove. He has successfully removed all flooring and glue residue and is now using a floor leveler to smooth out the discrepencies.

After this disaster, he has decided that he does not want to reinstall hardwood directly to the concrete via glue. Smart move! I sent him articles and links that shows the installation procedures common to installing a wood floor over cement. Basically, 2 x 4 pressure treated, kiln dried sleepers under vapor/moisture barriers. He is concerned with the height differences on this level and would prefer another method if there is any.

The first question that I have is: Are there other ways to install hardwood in the south that would be relatively quick, cost effective (not cheap!), that doesn’t adhere directly to the concrete?

The second question is: I have seen many floating floor applications and one that I came across at a trade show used a bubble wrap type of material for vapor barrier as well as insulation aide. Anyone else used this material before?

The third question is: Is there a floating floor material out there that is plywood based, prefinished, and has a variety of wood choices? If you know of any, can you give any brand-names, etc.?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!