Tongue and groove flooring, which first appeared in 1885, creates a tight seam between floorboards. This snug fit allows wood to expand and contract without breaking or splitting.
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It’s a solid hardwood flooring option that requires minimal nailing or gluing for installation. It is also an excellent choice for high moisture rooms like bathrooms and kitchens because it’s airtight and will help keep moisture out.
Installing tongue and groove flooring is relatively easy for most homeowners. However, there are some things you should know about this type of floor before you start a project.
First, you’ll need a good woodworking tool to make the tongue and groove sides of the boards. A table saw, shaper or router table are all suitable options for this task.
Place the tongue side of one board against a wall and measure a gap between it and the subfloor, leaving a 3/16-inch space for expansion. Transfer this measurement to the other side of the room and snap a chalk line between these points.
Lay the second board against the chalk line and align it with the tongue and groove of the first piece. Use a rubber mallet to tap the two pieces together before using a finish nailer to shoot nails through the face and tongue of the flooring along the groove side.
Floating engineered tongue and groove flooring is another option that is often less expensive than other types of hardwood floors because it can be installed more quickly. It also requires less work, reducing the time it takes to finish a floor. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or modern style, tongue and groove flooring is an excellent choice for any home.
