How to Use SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive

When it comes to securing wooden floors effectively, SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive stands out for its high-performance, solvent-free formulation. It is ideal for bonding engineered and solid wood flooring directly to common substrates, helping you achieve a clean, level, and enduring finish without the worry of cupping or warping.
Below, you’ll find our expert advice on how to use this wood floor adhesive. By following these steps, you can ensure the best results for your new wooden flooring.
Tools & Materials Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you’ve got everything you need prepared:
- SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive (advice on how much you need can be found below)
- Notched trowel
- Sika Primer MB (for weak or highly porous substrates, if required)
- PPE (safety glasses, gloves, suitable workwear)
- Cleaning cloth/wipes
- Measuring tape
- Knocking block & mallet (optional, for tapping boards into place)
How Much Adhesive Do You Need?
Each 14kg pail of SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive typically covers up to 23m² of flooring when applied at the recommended 0.6kg per m². However, actual coverage can vary based on factors such as substrate condition, trowel notch size, and the floor’s overall levelness. If your subfloor is more porous or uneven, you may need to apply slightly more adhesive to achieve a secure, even bond. For best results, always plan a bit of extra material to accommodate any unexpected surface irregularities.
Preparing the Subfloor
Clean and Dry
- Ensure your subfloor is entirely clean, free from dust, grease, loose particles, or old adhesives.
- If you’re working with concrete, use a grinder or suitable floor sander to remove surface laitance and create a stable base.
Check Moisture Levels
- Make sure the subfloor’s moisture content aligns with Sika’s recommended limits (for instance, max 2.5% by the CM method for cement screeds).
- For anhydrite screeds, keep moisture below 0.5% CM.
Prime if Necessary
In cases of weak or highly porous substrates (e.g., broadcast mastic asphalt or older surfaces), use a recommended primer such as Sika Primer MB. Always refer to Sika’s technical data sheets for specific guidance.
Step-by-Step Application
Step 1: Layout Planning
Dry-lay your wooden boards to confirm the desired pattern and fit before applying any adhesive. This step helps minimise mistakes once the adhesive is down.
Step 2: Apply the Adhesive
Using your notched trowel, apply SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive evenly at around 0.6 kg/m² (or slightly more, if necessary). Spread in small, manageable sections, ensuring the adhesive remains workable within its open time.
Step 3: Position the Flooring
Place each plank onto the adhesive, pressing firmly to achieve a secure bond. Leave recommended expansion gaps around walls and thresholds as advised by your flooring manufacturer.
Step 4: Check Alignment and Level
Tap planks into place with a knocking block or mallet to keep them level and tightly joined. Immediately wipe away any visible adhesive on the surface before it cures.
Step 5: Allow to Cure
Refer to Sika’s guidelines for cure time: typically, the floor can be walked on or lightly sanded 12–24 hours after installation. Complete cure may vary with ambient temperature, humidity, and subfloor conditions.
Post-Installation Advice
- Once fully cured, the floor can be sanded or finished if needed.
- If using underfloor heating, gradually bring the system to temperature to allow the adhesive and wood to acclimatise.
Ready to get started?
Ready to tackle your wood flooring project with SikaBond MS Wood Floor Adhesive? If you’re in the trade and looking for exclusive pricing, or simply want expert advice, call us on 01708 855698. You can also reach out through our contact page to discuss how we can help you achieve a sturdy, professional finish every time.