How to Nail Hardwood Floor to a Cement Floor

Cut a clear piece of polyethylene film into a 15-inch square. Apply the square to the cement surface with tape that is resistant to moisture. Firmly seal the square to the cement.

Wait two days, then lift the square to check for condensation. Test several spots; if moisture is not found, begin installation. Allow time for the cement to dry if the test indicates it is wet, then retest the cement. Ventilate the room or apply heat to speed the drying process.

Inspect the cement surface to verify it is flat and level. Remove any dust, debris or stains. Cover the cement with a layer of felt floor liner.

Top the felt with a layer of plywood to create a subfloor. Choose a 5/8-inch or thicker plywood. Draw lines with a carpenter's crayon to create a guide for placing hardwood panels.

Place the wood panels over the plywood, starting in a corner of the room. Turn the panel so the grooves are facing the wall side. Drill small pilot holes. Nail the hardwood to the subfloor using a rubber mallet.

Cut the hardwood at the end of the first row with a circular saw to fit the space. Begin the next row with the excess wood from the end of the first row. Link the wood panels at tongue and groove. Tap hardwood panels with a rubber mallet to tightly secure them. Pull the boards tight with a claw hammer when the rubber mallet does not fit.

Clean the hardwood floor. Remove all dust and debris with a soft cloth. Sweep, but do not wet, the floor for at least two days to allow the wood time to settle.