This is a detailed, step-by-step tutorial on how to professionally glue down herringbone parquet flooring. The video covers the entire process, from initial preparation to the final result, using a Meister brand parquet with a unique click system that doesn't require separate left and right planks. Key topics include a thorough subfloor inspection and the necessity of leveling uneven surfaces with a self-leveling compound, which is demonstrated in detail. The guide emphasizes the importance of establishing a precise center line using a chalk line to guide the crucial first row. It provides practical instructions on applying parquet adhesive, setting the initial "braid" of the herringbone pattern, and allowing it to cure before proceeding. The tutorial also offers valuable tips on cutting edge pieces, maintaining clean joints free of adhesive, and using the correct tools, serving as a comprehensive DIY guide that highlights common mistakes and best practices.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Herringbone Parquet Flooring
1:10 - Choosing a Laying Pattern: The video explains two methods: starting diagonally from a corner or using a center line.
Key Takeaway: The presenter opts for the "classic" method, establishing a central spine down the middle of the room to ensure the pattern is symmetrical and the edge pieces are uniform on both sides.
2:45 - Subfloor Preparation is Crucial: Before starting, the subfloor must be checked for evenness. The maximum allowable tolerance is 3 mm of unevenness per meter.
Key Takeaway: A level subfloor is essential for a proper bond when gluing and prevents damage to the click connections over time.
5:07 - Leveling Uneven Surfaces: The presenter finds the subfloor is too uneven and demonstrates the process of applying a primer and a self-leveling compound.
Key Takeaway: Don't skip leveling an uneven floor. After the compound dries, it must be sanded to remove the slick top layer ("sinter layer") to ensure a strong bond with the parquet adhesive.
8:06 - Finding and Marking the Center: Using a tape measure and a chalk line, a perfectly straight guide is snapped down the center of the room.
Key Takeaway: This center line is the critical reference for the entire installation and guarantees a straight, professional-looking pattern.
9:12 - Laying the First Row: The first "braid" of the herringbone pattern is dry-laid along the chalk line to ensure a perfect fit.
Key Takeaway: This first row is the foundation for the entire floor. Work with extreme precision, as even tiny misalignments will be amplified across the room.
13:12 - Gluing the Foundation: Parquet adhesive is applied with a B11 notched trowel, and the first row is set into the glue, weighed down, and left to set for about 30-60 minutes.
Key Takeaway: Allowing the first row to cure creates a stable anchor, preventing the floor from shifting when you tap subsequent planks into place.
16:50 - Keep Joints Free of Adhesive: This is a critical step. Immediately after laying a plank, use a putty knife to scrape any excess adhesive out of the click-joint grooves.
Key Takeaway: If adhesive dries in the joints, it will be impossible to correctly lock in the next row of planks.
19:28 - Cutting and Fitting the Edges: The video demonstrates how to measure, mark, and cut the small triangular pieces needed to fill the gaps along the walls, which typically requires 45-degree cuts on a miter saw.
22:23 - Pro Tip for Cleaning Up: For adhesive smudges on the floor surface or on tools, it's often better to let them dry completely rather than wiping them while wet.
Key Takeaway: Once dry, the adhesive can be easily scraped off with a piece of wood or a plastic scraper without smearing.