Hardwood floors work anywhere in the home. They can be installed above or below grade, on concrete slabs, over plywood subfloors, or over existing wood floors. In areas where they may see water and spills, regular maintenance will keep them looking like new for years.
With concrete, moisture control is essential, but can be managed with a film barrier applied directly over the concrete. Engineered wood subfloors must be screwed or nailed in place prior to installation. Some manufacturers recommend proprietary underlayments that are specially suited to installation of their hardwood floors. Once the subfloor is in place, sanded, smoothed, or filled to provide a level, even surface, installation of the boards can begin. Whether you install the floor using a hammer, a specialized board nailer or stapler, face nail the planks, or glue them to one another, the process of laying out the floor and marking for a square installation is the same.
The following links will help ensure a successful installation of your floor; answering questions regarding warranty, installation and more:
