How to Install
How to Install Your Flooring
Whether you're installing timber or carpet, proper installation makes all the difference for a long-lasting, great-looking floor. Follow our guides below to get the best results.
Timber Flooring Installation
Before You Begin
- Acclimatise the timber – Leave your timber flooring in the room for at least 48–72 hours before installation so it adjusts to the room's temperature and humidity.
- Prepare the subfloor – The subfloor must be clean, dry, level and structurally sound. Any height variation greater than 3mm over 1.8m should be corrected.
- Gather your tools – You'll need a tape measure, saw, rubber mallet, pull bar, spacers, and appropriate adhesive or underlayment.
Step-by-Step
Step 1 – Plan Your Layout Decide which direction the boards will run — typically parallel to the longest wall or the main light source. Dry lay a few rows first to plan the pattern.
Step 2 – Install Underlayment Roll out your underlay and tape the joins. This provides moisture protection and sound insulation.
Step 3 – Lay the First Row Start along the straightest wall, leaving a 10mm expansion gap around all edges. This allows the timber to expand and contract naturally.
Step 4 – Continue Laying Boards Click or glue boards into place row by row, staggering the end joints by at least 300mm. Use a rubber mallet and pull bar to ensure tight joins.
Step 5 – Cut to Fit Measure and cut boards carefully for edges, doorways, and obstacles. Always cut from the underside to avoid splintering.
Step 6 – Install Finishing Trims Once all boards are laid, install scotia or skirting trims to cover the expansion gap for a clean finish.
Carpet Installation
Before You Begin
- Measure carefully – Account for the full room including any alcoves or wardrobes. It's always better to have a little extra than to fall short.
- Prepare the subfloor – Remove old flooring, ensure the surface is flat, clean, and dry. Fix any squeaky boards or raised nails beforehand.
- Gather your tools – You'll need a carpet knife, knee kicker, carpet stretcher, tack strips, and adhesive tape for joins.
Step-by-Step
Step 1 – Install Tack Strips Nail tack strips around the perimeter of the room, leaving a small gap from the wall equal to the carpet thickness. Do not place them in doorways.
Step 2 – Lay the Carpet Underlay Roll out the underlay and trim it to fit just inside the tack strips. Tape the joins and staple it to the subfloor.
Step 3 – Position the Carpet Roll out the carpet and rough cut it, leaving around 15cm of excess on all sides. For joins, ensure the pile faces the same direction.
Step 4 – Stretch and Secure Use a knee kicker to hook the carpet onto the tack strips along one wall, then use a carpet stretcher to pull it tight across to the opposite wall. Repeat for the remaining sides.
Step 5 – Trim the Edges Use a carpet knife to trim the excess neatly against the wall. Tuck the edges down between the tack strip and the wall using a flat tool.
Step 6 – Finish Doorways Install threshold strips at doorways for a neat, safe transition between flooring types.
Important Notes
- Always follow the specific manufacturer's instructions included with your flooring product.
- For large or complex spaces, we recommend professional installation.
- Incorrect installation may void your product warranty.