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For ideal Dublin installation of flooring, have subfloor and level ready, select a product suitable for the room, acclimate boards, store indoor RH in the range of 40–60%, offer 10–15 mm expansion gap, and—if installing underfloor heating—control surface temperatures to or below 27 °C with gradual heat increase.
Why Dublin Requires a Unique Methodology
Dublin’s coastal location requires higher humidity and wider temperature ranges. Combined with more frequent use of underfloor heating, these factors mean that more care is required for moisture control, acclimation, and laying technique. This guide details the exact steps our FBS Flooring services team undertakes to provide a professional finish that will last.
Step 1: Choose the Right Floor for the Right Space
Selecting the optimal flooring material is the essence of a successful project.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): Highly water-resistant, perfect for kitchen usage, utility rooms, and high-traffic zones. Installs quickly with click systems.
Engineered Wood: A good choice for living rooms and bedrooms, stable when installed to specification under underfloor heating.
Laminate: Durable, value for money, and available in most finishes—the ideal choice for bedrooms, lounges, and corridors.
Solid Wood: High-end texture, though sensitive to dampness; less ideal for coastal places as well as underfloor heating.
🛒 Shop now: Browse our full range of premium flooring options in the FBS Flooring Shop.
Step 2: Subfloor Testing & Preparation
Before fitting any planks, ensure the base meets industry standards.
- Flatness: Maximum 5 mm deviation over 3 m.
- Moisture: Cement screeds ≤ 3.0%, anhydrite screeds ≤ 0.3% CM, timber subfloors ~12%.
- Damp Proof Membrane: Essential over concrete to protect against rising moisture.
Step 3: Acclimation & Site Conditions
- Store boards flat in the installation room for about 7 days.
- Maintain a room temperature of ≥ 18 °C and RH between 40–60%.
- Do not unpack boards until ready to fit.
Step 4: Underfloor Heating (UFH) Rules
- Maximum floor surface temperature: 27 °C.
- Turn UFH off 48 hours before installation.
- Post-installation, increase temperature gradually (+5 °C every 2 days) until the desired setting is reached.
Step 5: Choosing the Installation Method
- Floating: Fast and clean; ideal for laminates and many engineered woods.
- Glue-down: Best for UFH and high-stability needs.
- Nail-down: Suitable for specific solid and engineered boards.
- Clip systems: Used for certain specialty floors.
Expansion gap: Always 10–15 mm around the perimeter and fixed structures.
Step 6: Room-by-Room Recommendations
- Kitchens & Utility Rooms: LVT or engineered wood.
- Living Areas & Bedrooms: Engineered wood or laminate.
- Bathrooms: LVT/SPC only for water resistance.
- Hallways: Durable laminate or LVT.
Step 7: Installation Day Checklist
- Confirm site conditions (temperature, humidity, subfloor moisture).
- Snap a chalk line for the first row.
- Lay boards parallel to the longest wall or main light source.
- Stagger joints and clean excess adhesive immediately.
Step 8: After-Care for Long-Term Performance
- Maintain RH at 40–60% year-round.
- Use felt pads and mats to protect against scratches.
- Clean with manufacturer-approved solutions.
- Gradually adjust UFH temperatures.
