Adhesive Selection for Commercial Wood Flooring Projects

Choosing the correct adhesive for commercial wood flooring is a decision that affects performance for years to come. The adhesive you specify influences longevity, stability and how the floor copes with movement or moisture — so contractors and designers need clear guidance. This practical guide explains the main adhesive types, where each performs best and the key factors that should shape your choice. By the end you'll be able to select an adhesive that matches the project requirements and delivers a reliable installation.

To specify confidently you need to understand the main adhesive families. The primary categories are polyurethane, MS polymer and epoxy — each brings different properties and typical applications.

Polyurethane Adhesives provide strong bonds with good flexibility, making them well suited to environments that experience temperature swings. They also resist moisture, so are commonly used where humidity or occasional water exposure is a concern.

MS Polymer Adhesives are low in VOCs and highly elastic, working well across many commercial situations. Their durability and environmental credentials make them a popular choice for occupied spaces.

Epoxy Adhesives deliver exceptional bond strength and are used where loads or stresses are high. Epoxies cure to a very robust bond and are favoured for heavy-duty installations.

Polyurethane adhesives are valued for combining strength with flexibility. That flexibility lets the adhesive absorb seasonal movement without breaking the bond — essential where temperature and humidity change. Their moisture resistance also makes them suitable for areas such as kitchens, washrooms or other spaces prone to higher humidity.

MS polymer adhesives offer low VOC content for better indoor air quality and a high degree of elasticity to tolerate stress and movement without cracking. Those qualities, together with strong durability, make MS polymers a reliable, occupant-friendly option for many commercial installations.

Subfloor condition is one of the single biggest factors in adhesive performance. Different substrates need specific preparation and testing before you choose and apply an adhesive.

Concrete and anhydrite screeds must be cleaned and moisture-tested prior to application. Tests such as calcium chloride or in-situ relative humidity readings determine which adhesives or moisture mitigation systems are appropriate.

Plywood and OSB subfloors require sanding and thorough cleaning to provide a clean, even surface. A suitable moisture barrier can protect the installation and improve long-term adhesion.

Start with accurate moisture testing to establish the subfloor's condition. If moisture levels are above recommended limits, apply a compatible moisture mitigation system or barrier. Remove dust, laitance and contaminants, and consider a primer where recommended — these steps help adhesives form a reliable, long-lasting bond.

For plywood and OSB follow a straightforward checklist: clean the surface of dust and debris, sand any high spots to create an even contact area, and where required apply a moisture barrier. Allow the subfloor to acclimatise to site conditions before laying the flooring to reduce movement after installation.

Moisture is a major cause of timber flooring failures. Moisture-barrier adhesives either prevent vapour transmission or form part of a system that protects the timber from subfloor moisture — both are vital in vulnerable locations.

Moisture barriers stop moisture migrating from the subfloor into the timber, reducing the risk of warping, cupping and buckling in service. There are adhesives with integrated vapour-resistant properties and separate membrane systems. Selecting the correct approach depends on measured moisture levels and the flooring specification.

Integrated moisture barrier adhesives bond the flooring while also providing a layer of protection against vapour. Used correctly, they reduce the likelihood of moisture-related failures and have a proven record in installations where moisture control is required.

Measure moisture using industry-standard tests such as MVER (moisture vapour emission rate) and in-situ relative humidity (RH) readings. Those results, together with manufacturer limits and relevant standards, determine whether a moisture barrier adhesive or an alternative mitigation strategy is needed.

Adhesives used over heated subfloors must tolerate elevated temperatures and repeated thermal cycling without losing adhesion or flexibility.

Some formulations are designed specifically for underfloor heating, maintaining bond strength and flexibility at higher surface temperatures. Look for thermal stability, retained flexibility and proven compatibility with the floorcovering and heating system.

Heat resistance and sustained flexibility are the primary requirements. The adhesive must retain bond strength at working temperatures and allow for the natural expansion and contraction of wood as it heats and cools.

Flexible adhesives reduce the risk of cracking and delamination caused by thermal movement. By accommodating expansion and contraction they help maintain a stable, long-lasting bond on heated installations.

Low VOC and sustainably formulated adhesives are increasingly specified in commercial projects for their health and environmental benefits. They reduce emissions during and after installation and support sustainable building credentials.

Lower VOCs improve indoor air quality, an important consideration in offices, schools and occupied buildings where staff and visitors spend long hours. Sustainable adhesives use greener raw materials and manufacturing processes, helping projects meet environmental targets and client expectations.

Look for recognised certifications such as LEED credits applicability and FloorScore or equivalent indoor air quality standards. These markers give confidence that a product meets independent sustainability and emissions criteria.

Low VOC adhesives reduce off-gassing, supporting healthier indoor environments and helping projects comply with local regulations and client requirements. Selecting certified low-emission products also simplifies specifying for green building schemes.

For high-traffic or heavily loaded areas select adhesives that combine high bond strength with resistance to moisture, temperature changes and chemicals. The right choice depends on site conditions and the flooring system.

Subfloor preparation, ambient conditions and adhesive formulation all influence final bond performance. Correct surface prep and product selection are essential. Heavy-duty adhesives should resist moisture, thermal cycling and routine chemical exposure to ensure the floor remains secure over time.

Common mistakes include skipping moisture testing, ignoring subfloor contaminants, and using an adhesive unsuited to the substrate or environmental conditions. Also avoid assuming a product is compatible without checking manufacturer guidance — if in doubt, consult the supplier.

Start with correct moisture testing and thorough subfloor preparation. Choose an adhesive suited to the flooring, substrate and environment, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions and maintain appropriate humidity levels once the floor is in service.

Yes — for heavy footfall or wheeled loads, polyurethane and epoxy adhesives are commonly recommended for their superior bond strength and resilience. Select products formulated for heavy use and confirm compatibility with the floor covering.

Choosing the right adhesive is central to a successful commercial wood flooring installation. By understanding adhesive types, preparing the subfloor correctly and matching product performance to site conditions you'll reduce the risk of failure and extend the life of the floor. If you need help specifying or sourcing adhesives, explore our range or contact us for tailored advice to suit your project.