Installing a bamboo floor yourself is not as complicated as it may seem, but there are some basic rules that should be followed to ensure a trouble-free set up. You can generally separate the whole process in two stages -- pre-installation and actual installation.
1. Invest on book. It is a good idea to get a book on general Do-It-Yourself floor installation, especially if you're new to this. It will teach you basic knowledge and techniques that are used and give you more confidence that you're capable of doing the job yourself.
2. Read the factory manual. Trivial indeed, but there are many cases of people rushing to do the job without reading the guide book, especially those who are experienced and have done such work before. It's important to understand that although similar in construction and demands, bamboo floor packages differ from brand to brand and from type to type. There are many subtle details that might impact the overall quality of the finished floor. Very often mistakes won't become evident until months and years of exploitation. This may prove very costly to fix and replace. Some warranties also have a clause that demand you follow the manual or they become invalid.
3. Acclimatize the bamboo planks. Something that is a general rule for installing any type of floor cover. It is an essential step before attending the installation itself. Since humidity plays a big role to the structural unity of the floor planks, it is important you let all of them stay for at least 72 hours in the room they're going to be used. The room itself has to be set to the temperature and humidity levels it's going to have in the majority of time later during normal use. If it's a new built or renewed room, make sure any construction plaster, coating and paint have dried out completely before leaving the bamboo floor elements inside. That includes work done on the ceiling, walls and sub-floor.
4. Smooth, dry and clean the sub-floor. Speaking of sub-floors, this is very important indeed. Although tiny height differences are allowed, aim for as smooth surface as possible, whether it's concrete, cement, plywood or vinyl. Make sure no dirt or other particles are left over as that would compromise the uniform protection to moisture and cause damage to the underside of the bamboo planks over time.
5. Decide on nails, glue or floating floor. This is mostly down to the type of bamboo floor you've bought and the manual should specify which is best. With some you have the freedom in choosing the way it's laid onto the sub-floor. Nailing is easier to do and is suitable for solid and engineered bamboo floors, while gluing is can be used for any type, but takes more effort.
6. Below grade, on grade or above grade? Grade is the virtual horizontal line that refers to the Earth's surface around your house. Below grade is generally not suitable for natural material flooring like bamboo as it consistently exposes it to moisture. Still, if you are putting on a floating floor, this is a possible solution. On grade on the other hand is not as bad, but there is still some risk, especially with glued floors. Above grade is the best option so go with that if your house allows it.
7. Have proper equipment. Not only tools, but also proper clothing is essential, especially when dealing with glue. Protective overalls and gloves are necessary to ensure your own safety as well as making it easier to carry instruments around.
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