5) Laying Strips

7.  Draw a line to properly align the first row

Using a chalk line, draw a guideline parallel to starting wall and perpendicular to adjacent one, adding ¾" (19 mm) to strip width to account for expansion gap and strip tongue. For example, if installing 2 ¼" (57 mm) strips, draw guideline 3" (75 mm) from starting wall.

Tip: Use longest and straightest strips for the first row.

8.  Place, drill, and nail the first row

Align first strip with tongue side toward starting line and grooved side facing the starting wall; leave ¼" (6 mm) gap from right side wall, which is perpendicular to starting line. Drill and nail strip from above, as close to wall as possible to hide nail heads when baseboards and quarter rounds are in place. Install subsequent strips from right to left until ready to trim row end strips.

9.  Use trimmed strips to start next row

To minimize trim waste, select strip long enough for row end, so that remaining trimmed end may be used to start subsequent row. Leave ¼" (6 mm) gap at end of each row. To prevent end-joint alignment effect, first strip of second row must be at least 6" [150 mm] shorter or longer than that of first row.

10.  Nail first rows by hand

Since wall proximity prohibits use of nailer, use a hammer and nail punch to drive finishing nails approximately every 4" [100 mm] alongside tongue for first few rows.

11.  Use nailer as soon as possible

Subsequent rows must be installed the same way, using the nailer.

Nailer Tips

- Keep nailer base plate clean and free from nicks at all times
- When not in use, place on piece of plywood or cardboard
- Ensure that nailer base sits flat on the floor and plumb against tongue before nailing strip down
- Check nailer condition regularly
- Adjust compressor air pressure
- Be careful when nailing joints and stairs