How to install subflooring using floor adhesives

A solid foundation is critical to the structural integrity of every home – and that starts with strong, stable floors. An essential step to achieving level, noise-free floors is applying subfloor construction adhesive during the flooring installation process to secure the floor panels with joist connections.

The right subfloor adhesive has the strength to keep these panels securely in place, providing enough elasticity to absorb the impact and movement of day-to-day life while minimizing annoying creaks and squeaks underfoot.

For a high-performance floor adhesive with a strong initial grab and powerful bond, look no further than Pattex’s Nail Power Total. It sets fast and is suitable for both inside and outside flooring jobs.

Applying subfloor adhesive while installing flooring in your home is easier than you think. All you need is:

• protective gloves
• quality subfloor adhesive like Pattex’s Nail Power Total
• caulking gun
• cloth or rag
• mineral spirits
• scraper

1. As with most adhesives, floor adhesives are sensitive to temperature. Make sure you check the product specifications before use to ensure the product suits your environment.
2. Clean the surfaces thoroughly of any dust, grease, or other contaminants. 
3. Pre-fit all materials and panels.
4. Using your caulking gun, squeeze out a steady bead of subfloor adhesive to the joists or studs, applying the glue in a slow zigzag pattern to make sure the surfaces are sufficiently coated. 
5. Carefully lower the subfloor panels onto the joists and hold them in place for approximately 15 minutes. If you need to reposition, make sure you do so as soon as possible (Pattex Nail Power Total can be repositioned for up to two minutes).
6. Clean any residue immediately using a cloth dampened with mineral spirits. Cured residue can be chiselled away with a scraper or other sharp-edged tool.
7. Wash your hands.