There are several ways to install a wood floor. Generally speaking today, the best way to install a wood floor is always going to be using full surface bonding of the wooden planks / elements to the screed or other substrate. The main advantages of this system are:
Comfort and safety: We like to stand on solid and firm ground
Sound dampening: Walking noises are not reflected into the room, but are absorbed by the mass of the floor
Thermal conductivity: With subfloor heating wood floors must be bonded to allow efficient heat transfer.
Durable: Bonding unites the wood, adhesive and screed as a composite unit, making it strong.
Hygienic: Wood floors that are not bonded have many flexible joints and hollow spaces, ideal for dust accumulation and microbial growth
Sustainable: Only firmly fully bonded wood floors can be evenly ground and varnished
Universal and versatile: From a plain linear plank installation, to a parquet herringbone pattern and other wood floor art works are possible
Workers applying wood floor adhesives in a residential building
Due to its apparent ease and simplicity, plus the extensive availability of engineered wood in retail there are a lot of do-it-yourself installations, but all of these have serious disadvantages and are probably more decorative than durable. This approach and these products are therefore not recommended for professionals, quality residential, public or commercial applications.
