Installation planning
Direct-Stick vs Floating Engineered Timber Flooring
Direct-stick flooring is bonded to the prepared substrate; floating flooring is installed over an approved underlay. Product approval, substrate, acoustics, connected rooms and finished heights determine the better fit.
01
The two systems connect to the substrate differently
In a direct-stick system, the engineered boards are bonded to the prepared substrate with a compatible flooring adhesive. In a floating system, the boards connect to each other and sit over an approved underlay.
Both methods require correct expansion allowances, product acclimatisation where specified, suitable site conditions and careful junction planning.
02
The decision should be project-specific
Review the selected product's approved methods, slab or subfloor condition, acoustic requirements, floor area, connected rooms, stair and doorway details, and adjacent finished floor heights.
A method that suits one product or room may not suit another. Manufacturer instructions and site conditions take priority over a general preference.
- Check whether the selected board is approved for the proposed method.
- Coordinate finished heights with tiles, doors, cabinetry and stairs.
- Plan transitions and expansion requirements before installation.
03
Substrate preparation still matters
Direct-stick installation relies on a sound, clean, suitably flat and moisture-managed substrate for adhesion and finish. Floating floors also need the substrate to meet flatness and moisture requirements; underlay is not a substitute for correcting unsuitable conditions.
The scope of preparation should be confirmed after assessment.