Frequently Asked Questions: What Wood Can Be Installed Over Concrete?

Q: What kind of hardwood flooring can I install over a concrete slab?

A: In the old days of hardwood flooring, concrete slabs did not make a suitable sub-floor. Even today most manufacturers do not recommend using solid hardwood floors over a concrete slab. However, most engineered and longstrip engineered plank floors can be used over concrete. Hooray!

Engineered planks and strip wood floors can be glued directly to a clean, dry, well-cured concrete floor. Certain types of engineered hardwood flooring can be glued at the tongue/groove intersection and floated over concrete, provided there is a special padding in place. There are even new varieties of hybrid engineered flooring that can be floated over a concrete floor without glue - the tongue-and-groove locking system holds the planks in place.

Of course, it's important to talk with the manufacturer of the specific engineered hardwood flooring you're using. It's also important to note that concrete slabs need to be fully cured for at least 60 days before installing hardwood flooring over them. Additionally, your flooring should be properly acclimated before you begin the installation process.

To learn more about installing engineered hardwood flooring over concrete slabs visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, or call one of our flooring professionals at 1-888-448-9663.

Engineered flooring such as this engineered Amendoim hardwood flooring. can be easily installed over an existing concrete slab.