The Floating Method is the recommended installation for most engineered wood floors. Floating is a method where the planks are glued together along the tongue and groove, but are not in anyway attached to the subfloor. An underlayment padding is needed between the flooring planks and the subfloor to create better floatation and to reduce the walking noise. Floating the floor makes a lot of sense when you have in-floor radiant heat. A moisture barrier should be used between the flooring and the subfloor when installed below grade or when any rising moisture could be anticipated.
It is particularly important to ensure that the subfloor is very level when the floating installation method is used. The floating floor is only as good as your subfloor. National Wood Flooring Association guidelines limit unlevel floors to 3/16" in 10 feet. The floor must have an approximate 3/8" expansion space along all walls and edges.
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