How To: Installing Floating Wooden Floors

Materials and Tools:

slats or wood paneling
moisture barrier
padding
painter's tape

Steps:

1. Start with a moisture barrier. Laying this thin layer of plastic underneath the padding and wood will protect the wood from the concrete "sweating." Make sure the material lies flat to prevent wrinkling or bunching.

2. Next, place the padding over the moisture barrier. Be sure the correct side is up to ensure additional moisture protection. Avoid overlapping, which would create bulges in the floor. Use painter's tape to tape down the padding.

3. The next step is to install the floating wood floor. The slats come in different sizes, which will create staggered joints. Since these slats have locking grooves, you do not need glue or nails.

4. Place two slats together at a 15-degree to 20-degree angle, and snap together by pulling straight.

5. Piece together the floor like a puzzle. Avoid lining up the horizontal seams; make sure they are all staggered.

6. Don't worry about imperfect edges near the wall since the base boards will cover that up.