How Do You Install Fake Hardwood Floors Step by Step?

AvatarByJoseph Thomas Flooring

If you’re looking to transform your living space with the timeless appeal of hardwood floors but want a more affordable and low-maintenance alternative, fake hardwood floors might be the perfect solution. These floors offer the rich, warm look of real wood without the high cost or the extensive upkeep, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and renters alike. Whether you’re updating a single room or renovating an entire home, understanding how to install fake hardwood floors can open up new possibilities for stylish and practical flooring.

Installing fake hardwood floors combines the aesthetic charm of natural wood with modern materials designed for durability and ease of care. From luxury vinyl planks to laminate options, these products are engineered to mimic the texture and grain of real hardwood while providing resistance to moisture, scratches, and everyday wear. The installation process is often straightforward and can be a rewarding DIY project, allowing you to customize your space with confidence and creativity.

Before diving into the installation, it’s helpful to grasp the basics of the different types of fake hardwood flooring and the tools and techniques involved. This foundational knowledge will prepare you to make informed decisions and achieve a professional-looking finish. In the following sections, we’ll explore everything you need to know to successfully install fake hardwood floors and enjoy a beautiful, durable floor for years to come.

Preparing the Subfloor

Before installing fake hardwood floors, it is crucial to prepare the subfloor properly to ensure a smooth, level surface that will support the flooring material effectively. Begin by removing any existing flooring, debris, nails, or staples from the subfloor. Clean the area thoroughly to eliminate dust and dirt, which can interfere with adhesion and leveling.

Check the subfloor for any uneven spots or damage. Use a straightedge or level to identify high or low areas. Sand down high spots and fill low areas with a floor leveling compound. Allow the compound to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding.

If installing over a concrete subfloor, verify that the concrete is dry and free from moisture. Use a moisture meter to test the subfloor; moisture levels above the recommended threshold can cause the flooring to warp or peel. If necessary, apply a vapor barrier or moisture-resistant underlayment to prevent moisture-related issues.

Acclimating the Flooring

Fake hardwood flooring, including laminate and vinyl planks, needs time to acclimate to the room conditions. This step prevents expansion or contraction after installation, which could cause gaps or buckling.

  • Remove the flooring from the packaging.
  • Lay the planks flat in the installation room.
  • Maintain room temperature between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
  • Allow the flooring to acclimate for 48 to 72 hours.

Keep the flooring away from direct sunlight or heating vents during this period to avoid uneven exposure.

Installing the Underlayment

Underlayment serves as a cushion and moisture barrier beneath fake hardwood floors. It enhances comfort, reduces noise, and protects the flooring from subfloor irregularities and moisture.

There are several types of underlayment available:

  • Foam underlayment: Common for laminate floors, provides cushioning and sound absorption.
  • Cork underlayment: Offers natural soundproofing and insulation.
  • Rubber underlayment: Suitable for moisture-prone areas, provides excellent sound absorption.

Select an underlayment compatible with your flooring type and subfloor conditions. Roll out the underlayment perpendicular to the direction of the flooring planks, overlapping edges as recommended by the manufacturer. Use tape to secure seams and prevent shifting during installation.

Laying the Flooring Planks

Start laying the fake hardwood planks along the longest wall or the most visible area of the room, maintaining a straight line. Use spacers to leave an expansion gap of approximately 1/4 inch around the perimeter, allowing the flooring to expand and contract with temperature changes.

For click-lock flooring, align the tongue and groove edges and snap the planks together at an angle. For glue-down products, apply adhesive as directed by the manufacturer, and press the planks firmly into place.

Alternate plank lengths and stagger seams by at least 6 inches to create a natural wood appearance and enhance structural stability.

Tips for efficient installation:

  • Use a tapping block and mallet to ensure tight seams without damaging the planks.
  • Cut the last plank in each row to fit, leaving the expansion gap.
  • Clean off any excess adhesive immediately if using glue-down flooring.

Common Tools and Materials Needed

Tool/Material Purpose
Measuring Tape Accurate measurement of room and plank sizes
Utility Knife or Saw Cutting planks to fit
Spacers Maintaining expansion gaps
Tapping Block and Mallet Ensuring tight plank seams without damage
Level Checking subfloor evenness
Flooring Adhesive (if applicable) Securing glue-down planks
Underlayment Cushioning and moisture barrier

Preparing the Subfloor for Fake Hardwood Installation

Proper preparation of the subfloor is essential to ensure a smooth and durable installation of fake hardwood floors. The subfloor must be clean, level, dry, and structurally sound to provide a stable foundation.

Steps for Subfloor Preparation:

  • Remove existing flooring: Strip away any carpet, vinyl, tile, or old hardwood to expose the subfloor.
  • Clean the subfloor: Sweep and vacuum to eliminate dust, dirt, and debris that could interfere with adhesion or leveling compounds.
  • Check for moisture: Use a moisture meter to confirm the subfloor is dry. For concrete subfloors, moisture should be below 3% for vinyl planks or 1.5% for laminate alternatives.
  • Level the surface: Identify any uneven areas greater than 3/16 inch over 10 feet. Use a self-leveling compound or floor patch to correct dips and holes.
  • Secure loose boards: Nail or screw any squeaky or loose plywood subfloor panels to prevent movement under the flooring.
  • Install underlayment if required: Depending on the type of fake hardwood flooring (vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood), lay down an appropriate underlayment to provide cushioning, soundproofing, and moisture barrier.
Subfloor Type Recommended Moisture Level Preparation Notes
Plywood/OSB Below 12% moisture content Ensure panels are securely fastened; sand any rough spots.
Concrete Below 3% (vinyl), below 1.5% (laminate) Apply moisture barrier if needed; check for cracks and fill accordingly.
Existing Hardwood Dry and structurally sound Can be used if flat and secure; sand uneven areas.

Tools and Materials Needed for Installation

Having the right tools and materials on hand before starting the installation process will ensure efficiency and a professional finish.

  • Tools: Tape measure, chalk line, utility knife, rubber mallet, tapping block, pull bar, spacers, saw (miter or jigsaw), carpenter’s square, level, and safety equipment (gloves, goggles).
  • Materials: Fake hardwood flooring planks (vinyl or laminate), underlayment (foam or cork), moisture barrier (if required), adhesive (for glue-down types), transition strips, and baseboards or quarter-round molding.
  • Additional supplies: Cleaning supplies to wipe down subfloor, and a pry bar for removing existing flooring.

Acclimating the Fake Hardwood Flooring

Proper acclimation of flooring planks helps prevent expansion or contraction issues after installation.

Place the unopened boxes of fake hardwood flooring in the room where they will be installed for at least 48 hours. Maintain room temperature between 60°F and 80°F and humidity levels between 35% and 55% during this period. This allows the material to adjust to the environment and minimizes the risk of gaps or buckling post-installation.

Installing the Underlayment

Underlayment provides cushioning, sound absorption, and moisture protection, contributing to the longevity and comfort of the floor.

Installation Guidelines:

  • Roll out the underlayment across the subfloor, ensuring it lies flat without wrinkles or folds.
  • Trim excess material at walls and doorways using a utility knife.
  • Butt seams tightly together; avoid overlapping to prevent unevenness.
  • Tape seams with manufacturer-recommended tape to keep the underlayment stable during flooring installation.
  • Allow the underlayment to extend slightly up the walls to create a moisture barrier, which can be trimmed after flooring installation.

Laying the First Row of Fake Hardwood Planks

Starting the installation accurately ensures a professional appearance and structural stability.

Begin laying the first row of planks along the longest, straightest wall in the room. Use spacers to maintain an expansion gap of 1/4 inch between the flooring and the wall to allow for natural movement.

  • Place the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall.
  • Connect subsequent planks by aligning tongues into grooves, ensuring tight seams without gaps.
  • Cut the last plank in the row to fit, using a saw appropriate for the material (a fine-tooth saw for laminate or vinyl). Maintain the expansion gap at the edge.
  • Check alignment frequently using a carpenter’s square and level.

Continuing the Installation Across the Room

After securing the first row, proceed

Professional Insights on How To Install Fake Hardwood Floors

Jessica Marlowe (Certified Flooring Installer, National Wood Flooring Association). When installing fake hardwood floors, preparation is key. Ensuring the subfloor is clean, dry, and level will prevent future issues such as warping or uneven wear. Additionally, using a high-quality underlayment not only improves comfort but also extends the life of the flooring by providing moisture protection and sound insulation.

David Chen (Home Renovation Consultant, BuildSmart Solutions). One common mistake homeowners make is rushing the acclimation process. Fake hardwood planks need to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. This step minimizes expansion or contraction after installation, which can cause gaps or buckling. Patience during this phase ensures a seamless, long-lasting finish.

Maria Gonzalez (Interior Designer and Flooring Specialist, Luxe Interiors). Choosing the right installation method—whether click-lock, glue-down, or floating—depends on the specific product and room conditions. For DIY enthusiasts, click-lock systems are often the most user-friendly and forgiving. However, consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines and considering the room’s moisture levels will help determine the best approach for a durable and attractive result.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools are required to install fake hardwood floors?
Essential tools include a tape measure, utility knife, spacers, rubber mallet, tapping block, pull bar, and a saw for cutting planks. A level surface and underlayment may also be necessary depending on the product.

Can fake hardwood floors be installed over existing flooring?
Yes, most fake hardwood floors can be installed over existing floors such as vinyl, tile, or wood, provided the surface is clean, dry, and level. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for compatibility.

How long does the installation process typically take?
Installation time varies with room size and experience but generally takes 1 to 3 days for an average-sized room when following proper preparation and installation steps.

Is it necessary to acclimate fake hardwood flooring before installation?
While fake hardwood floors are more stable than real wood, some products still require acclimation to room temperature and humidity for 24 to 48 hours to prevent expansion or contraction after installation.

What type of underlayment should be used with fake hardwood floors?
The choice of underlayment depends on the flooring type and subfloor. Foam or cork underlayments are common for sound absorption and moisture barriers. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance.

Can fake hardwood floors be installed in moisture-prone areas?
Many fake hardwood floors are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. Installation in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms requires specific products designed for such environments and proper moisture barriers to prevent damage.
Installing fake hardwood floors is a practical and cost-effective way to achieve the aesthetic appeal of real wood without the associated expense and maintenance. The process involves careful preparation of the subfloor, precise measurement and layout planning, and the use of appropriate installation methods such as click-lock, glue-down, or nail-down techniques depending on the type of flooring chosen. Attention to detail during installation ensures a seamless and durable finish that enhances the overall look of any space.

Key considerations include selecting high-quality materials that mimic natural wood grain and texture, ensuring the subfloor is clean, dry, and level, and acclimating the flooring to the room’s environment before installation. Proper tools and safety equipment are essential to achieve professional results and avoid damage to the flooring or injury during the process. Additionally, understanding the specific manufacturer’s guidelines for installation will help maintain warranty coverage and optimize the floor’s longevity.

Ultimately, installing fake hardwood floors requires a combination of preparation, precision, and patience. By following best practices and leveraging expert techniques, homeowners and installers can successfully transform interiors with a stylish, durable, and low-maintenance flooring option that replicates the warmth and character of genuine hardwood. This approach not only enhances property value but also offers a versatile solution suitable for

Author Profile

Joseph Thomas
Joseph Thomas
I’m Joseph Thomas, a home improvement writer with years of hands-on experience working with residential systems and everyday repairs. Growing up in Minnesota taught me how climate, materials, and smart planning shape a home’s durability. Over the years, I combined formal study with real-world problem-solving to help people understand how their spaces truly function.

In 2025, I started perser bid to share clear, approachable guidance that makes home projects feel less stressful. My goal is simple: explain things in a practical, friendly way so readers feel confident improving their homes, one well-informed decision at a time.