Professional Tips for a Fast & Beautiful Install

Updated on Jun 13, 2025

Installing a Steller Floor is a straightforward process that can be completed quickly and efficiently with the right preparation and techniques. By following these professional tips, you’ll ensure a smooth installation experience while maintaining the craftsmanship guarantee provided by Steller Floors.

1. Prepare Your Site

Ensure the subfloor meets flatness requirements of 1/8" over 8-10 feet. Use a 48" straight edge to check flatness - if a dime sails under the level - consider remediating with liquid leveller to remediate low spots. Check for flatness after remediating just in case!
Maintain indoor humidity between 35-50% and a temperature range of 65-80°F. If conditions are drier, acclimate the flooring for two weeks for every 5% below 35% RH.
If you decide to use a moisture barrier, install it during site preparation.

2. Install Expansion Gaskets

Place the provided expanded-foam gaskets under baseboards (1 inch of material every 1-2 feet), compressing slightly, to allow room for plank expansion during high humidity. For rooms wider than 20 feet, consult the Steller Floors team for additional guidance.

3. Start in the Center

Begin by assembling a section of four rows in the middle of the room. Once the section is sturdy, push it against the pre-installed gaskets at the first wall.

4. Optimize Clip Placement

Ensure clips overhang butt-ends of planks by 4 inches and leave a ½-inch gap between clips to allow for thermal expansion. Avoid forming “plus joints” at the plank ends (this is a traditional-install, style approach for no known technical reason).

5. Seal Fresh Cuts

When trimming planks, apply the provided sealant to the fresh cuts using a foam brush or similar tool. This step ensures durability and moisture resistance.

Pro-Tips for Speed and Efficiency

Join Full Rows Lengthwise First
- Assemble new rows by connecting several planks with butt-end clips first. Attach long clips along the outer edges, then push and tap the entire row into place. Installing one plank at a time is slower.
Handle Room Final Rows with Precision
- Stop a few rows short of the final wall. Measure the partial plank width needed to finalize the install, rip it to size, and pre-assemble the last rows two and slide them into place. Snap the third or fourth row into place last.
Pre-Assemble in Tight Spaces
- For hallways or other constrained areas, pre-assemble flooring sections and ask a partner to help you carry the sections into place.
Manage Separate Rooms
- If humidity differs between rooms, place a plank perpendicular to the doorway to separate the flooring. This approach allows independent movement between rooms.