Can You Install a Wood Floor Over Concrete?

I love concrete floors, but they’re not great for every space. A wood floor can be much more appealing, especially in chilly or drab areas.

“Beyond the beauty, they also provide an acoustic bounce effect that concrete alone can’t achieve,” says Geoff Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration. “The feel of wood floors is also a huge draw since they are pleasing to the touch and not a cold shock the way concrete can be.”

It’s not hard to install wood floors over concrete. But if it’s not done correctly, it can be a disaster. Here’s how to avoid those pitfalls on your way to a new, warm wood finish.

Why Install Wood Floors Over Concrete?

There are several reasons to install a wood floor over concrete, including the fact that wood doesn’t transfer cold as readily, creating a warm and inviting feeling, both aesthetically and literally.

“If your home is built on a slab of concrete, installing wood floors can liven up the home and add an appealing design,” says Rotem Eylor, founder of Republic Floor. “It’s also durable and low maintenance.”

What Do You Put Between Concrete and Wood Floors?

You should always install a moisture barrier between concrete and wood flooring to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to mold, staining or warping. Depending on what type of wood floor you’re using, that may be poly plastic sheeting (aka Visqueen) or glue with a built-in moisture barrier. Flooring manufacturers usually provide recommendations to guide you in the right direction.

Floating wood flooring usually calls for a plastic barrier, says Chad Thielk, a home improvement expert with JustAnswer.com. Some flooring manufacturers also require the use of their specific brand of moisture barrier for the warranty to be valid.

If the flooring calls for glue, use the specific glue recommended by the manufacturer. “If you were to just use regular wood floor adhesive, the moisture that is naturally in the concrete will be absorbed by the wood, which can cause issues,” says Thielk.

How To Install Wood Floors Over Concrete

• Remove any existing floor covering, if there is one.
• Remove any debris that could cause the wood to not lie evenly.
• Sweep and mop to remove as much dust as possible.
• Level any low spots (greater than 1/4 inch) with a self-leveling product. Check for low spots with a long straight tool like a level, says Thielk.
• Remove the base shoe, baseboards and any trim that might be in the way.
• Mask off areas that might be damaged by sealant, like walls and outlets.
• Install the moisture/vapor barrier on top of the concrete, according to manufacturer instructions.
• Add the sub-flooring layer. Typically, this is ¾ in. plywood sheeting that then serves as a base to attach the wood flooring onto,” says Walker.
• You may also want to install an underlayment, like foam, says Eylor.
• Install the wood flooring according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Thielk recommends acclimating the flooring by setting it in the room you are installing it in at least 48 hours beforehand and drawing or chalking lines on the floor to keep your installation straight.
• Leave at least a 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap between the flooring and the sill plate to allow for wood expansion. “If you fail to do this, then the floors will buckle and pop,” says Walker.
• Reinstall the trim pieces, baseboard and any shoe that was removed.
• Caulk any base shoe or baseboard that comes into contact with the flooring for a completed look and to protect against water damage.

FAQ

Can you put wood flooring directly on concrete?

Yes, but you’ll need to also install a moisture barrier to prevent mold or water damage. Depending on what the wood flooring manufacturer recommends, the barrier may be plastic or a special glue.

What’s the best type of wood flooring to put over concrete?

Eylor says engineered wood flooring is generally best since it is less sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.

But “as long as you use a proper vapor barrier and subflooring material, you can choose any type of wood flooring option you like, from engineered planks to natural hardwood,” says Walker.

How do you install wood flooring over uneven concrete?

You’ll need to first flatten the surface by removing any debris causing high points, then use a self-leveler to fill any low points deeper than 1/4 inch. You’ll probably also need to use a self-leveling product primer first.

Can you install engineered wood flooring over concrete?

Yes, but you’ll need a moisture barrier. Some engineered wood floorings have a moisture barrier pre-installed on the back side. Others require a special glue or a separate plastic barrier.

About the Experts

• Geoff Walker is a company superintendent at ASAP Restoration in Tempe, Arizona, and has nearly 50 years of experience in the home repair field.
• Chad Thielk is a third-generation construction worker. He started in the industry at age 15 and worked for a commercial remodeling company before becoming a home improvement expert with JustAnswer.com, the on-demand platform for 24/7 help from pros.
• Rotem Eylor is an entrepreneur and hands-on CEO and founder of Republic Floor, a top 10 US manufacturer and distributor of hard surfaces. He is also a member of the Forbes Business Council.