Hi folks,

For installation of 1/2 inch engineering hardwood over plywood in a basement.

Two questions:

1. Any recommendations for stapler? I was thinking either Bostitch EHF1838K or Dewalt DWEHF1838K which seem to be the same product. 18 gage flooring stapler.

2. What underlayment you would recommend? Sub-floor is dricore (OSB with plastic underneath) panels with 3/8 plywood on top. The only interesting product I saw was Aquabar B that Home Depot sells. Seems to be a wax paper laminated with asphalt for additional humidity barrier. Any other suggestions?


Thanks for your help.

You could use an epoxy sealer. The Aqua Bar will make installing the flooring pleasant by keeping fine dust covered up as you lay the floor.

You can use any stapler, but i prefer Dewalt DWEHF 1838K and for underlayment you should use standard foam underlayment as this would be perfect as per me.

Not recommended to use a foam underlayment then staple the flooring down.