What is a Floating Floor?

A floating floor is a term that is used in connection with laying bamboo and wooden floors.  A floating floor, which is sometimes referred to as a ‘loose laid floor’, is when the bamboo is not fixed into position.  You would lay the bamboo over an underlay, so that it floats on top. There are many ways of installing bamboo flooring.  The method of installation that you choose usually depends upon your needs and requirements.  Floating a bamboo floor is the easiest method of installation as it requires very little professional equipment. All types of bamboo floor (both engineered and solid) can be floated.  This is because bamboo is dimensionally stable.  If you want to float hardwood, you must choose engineered hardwood flooring.  Solid wood cannot be floated.  

How do I install a floating floor?

First of all, you will need to decide which underlay you want.  There are different types depending upon your needs and requirements.  If you are not sure, have a look at the following: What underlay should I use with my bamboo floor? You would measure and cut your underlay to size and roll it out in the room.  Start at one wall and lay out the planks of bamboo over the underlay.  If you have click fitting bamboo, simply click and lock the joints together.  If you have tongue and groove bamboo flooring, you will need to glue the edges together to create a tight and secure fit.  Continue to do this throughout your room.  Remember to leave an expansion gap around the edge of the room. Finally add the finishing touches, like bamboo skirting or beading. For more detailed advice about floating a bamboo floor, either contact us, or have a look at our installation guide.  You will also get comprehensive installation instructions with your bamboo flooring from us.   [caption id="attachment_685" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Floating a bamboo floor over underlay[/caption]  

Why would I float my bamboo floor?

There are many reasons why you may want to float your bamboo floor.  Here are some of them:

• If you are a keen DIYer and want to fit the floor yourself
• When you have a solid subfloor and want to use an underlay
• For a quick and straight forward fitting method
• If you don’t want to use nails or glue

Please note that you cannot float bamboo flooring over joists.  You must have a solid and well prepared subfloor.  Furthermore, you should not float parquet block bamboo flooring.  This needs to be glued down to the subfloor.