Is Top Nailing Hardwood Flooring Acceptable?

Copyright AC Flooring

This is one of the most debated topics in the industry. Especially because as a human reaction, this seems like a terrible plan, and there must be better solutions, right?

While there may be other solutions, there are some instances where top nailing hardwood is needed. Not only is this okay, if done properly, manufacturers back and recommend this method.

The same way it is okay to put a screw in your wall, mud and paint it, the same concept goes for hardwood flooring. If you have a pesky plank that moves and squeaks, a top nail might just do the trick. This may be a better solution then removing and replacing a plank. Also, you may not have any wood left over. This is also acceptable when replacing a plank.

Your installation crew will use a small gauge nail, to shoot into your wood and into the subfloor. To secure the board, is the number one reason. This nail should sink past the surface of the wood, but not too far through. Wood putty or wood filler and a stain or stain pan should be used to make this area nearly invisible.

Please reach out to us with any hardwood flooring installation questions!