Flooring types and installation overview

Choose the floor from the room, then the subfloor, then your skill. A beautiful floor on a bad base does not last.

Common types

• Floating floors (laminate, click vinyl): interlock and rest on an underlay. Approachable, but need a flat base.
• Glue-down or nail-down wood: more skill and tools; sensitive to moisture.
• Tile: durable and water tolerant, but needs a rigid, flat base and careful setting.
• Sheet vinyl and carpet: often best handed to a trade for neat seams.

Subfloor first

Check for flatness, dryness and soundness. Repair squeaks, level high and low spots and address moisture before covering anything. Some products need a moisture test of a concrete slab.

General order of work

1. Acclimatise material if the maker says so.
2. Prepare and clean the subfloor.
3. Lay underlay if the product needs it.
4. Set the first row straight and leave expansion gaps where required.
5. Cut around fixtures and finish with trim.

Compare your options

Use the grid to record what each option needs, using information from the manufacturer and your supplier.

Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.

Quick answers

• Which floor is easiest for a beginner? Floating click-together floors are usually the most approachable, but they still need a flat, dry subfloor.
• Does the subfloor matter? It matters a great deal. Most failures come from uneven, damp or poorly prepared subfloors.
• Should I acclimatise flooring? Many products need to rest in the room before installing. Follow the manufacturer instructions.
• Can I trust a general guide for my product? Use the product installation sheet first. Guides like this give the shape of the job, not product-specific rules.

Questions people ask

Which floor is easiest for a beginner?

Floating click-together floors are usually the most approachable, but they still need a flat, dry subfloor.

Does the subfloor matter?

It matters a great deal. Most failures come from uneven, damp or poorly prepared subfloors.

Should I acclimatise flooring?

Many products need to rest in the room before installing. Follow the manufacturer instructions.

Can I trust a general guide for my product?

Use the product installation sheet first. Guides like this give the shape of the job, not product-specific rules.

Sources and further reading

• NAHB
• U.S. EPA
• Digital Oro

Text Digital Oro

Digital Oro International advertises on The Company Chronicle. This guide was written by our editorial team from public sources and general professional practice; it does not describe a guarantee, quote or offer from Digital Oro International. Confirm current terms, prices and availability with the operator before you decide.