How to Install Bullnose Hardwood Floors

Installing a hardwood floor enhances the appeal and value of your home. Although the installation process is relatively straightforward, many homeowners face problems when finishing the flooring at the edges. In such a case, install bullnose trim to cover the exposed edge of the floor, especially along the top of a stairway, and bridge the slight difference in height between the floating hardwood flooring and adjacent carpet or tile. Bullnose, a versatile transition molding featuring a rounded profile, gives a hardwood floor a professional finish.

Measuring tape
Bullnose plank
Miter saw
Wood flooring adhesive
Rubber mallet
Hammer
Finish nails
Wood putty
Putty knife

Instructions

- 1
  Extend a measuring tape along the length of the hardwood flooring where you want to install the bullnose. Also measure the width of the exposed surface where the bullnose flooring plank is to be installed. Record the measurements.
- 2
  Transfer the measurements to the bullnose transition plank. Carefully cut over the lines of the plank using a miter saw.
- 3
  Spread a thin layer of wood flooring adhesive over the back of the bullnose in a zigzag pattern. Space the adhesive at least 1 inch inward from each edge.
- 4
  Slide the grooved edge of the bullnose plank into the exposed tongue edge of the hardwood flooring so it locks in place and falls flush on the subfloor. Tap the joint lightly with a rubber mallet so it forms a tight seam.
- 5
  Wipe away excess adhesive that seeps through the joint with a damp rag.
- 6
  Hammer finish nails along the length of the bullnose transition plank, spaced 6 to 8 inches apart. Countersink the nail head so they fall 1/16 inch below the surface of the surrounding bullnose hardwood.
- 7
  Fill the nail holes with wood putty that matches the shade of the bullnose so they don’t stand out. Use the edge of a putty knife to wipe away excess putty from the surface so it is level with the surface of the surrounding bullnose. Allow the putty to dry for the time specified on the label’s direction.

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