Hi Pro's
I am installing a quick lock type engineered hardwood floating floor in my kitchen area. I have a big Island bar and I only have 2 choices, around or under.
I am assuming the Island bar can be removed, then put back over the new floor but then how to anchor the bar??
Or if I go around the bar, allowing expansion gap, how likely will things line up as I get to the other side of the bar?

Thanks much for the help!
Mistert3

Islands are usually anchored with blocking fastened to the floor. If you don't want to trim out the island with trim molding remove the island and leave the blocking. Cut the laminate to the blocking, leaving expansion. Reset the island and it hides all the expansion.

Do not anchor through the laminate, trapping and locking it.

Good suggestion and solution! I need to remember that!

Cabinets can be set the same way.

Here in California, (as Gary knows) islands have to have a 110 outlet, and I would much rather install around, then mess with the removal, the wiring, maybe a vent duct from a Jennaire stove top, etc. Not to mention the water lines, and waste lines yours has because it has bar in it, ( I'm assuming it is a wet bar).

To answer your question though, most self locking flooring is milled precise enough that it will line up when you go around. I've never run into one that didn't, but have never installed versa lock either. Look at how you floor has gone together; is it tight, and did it go together smoothly? If so, you'll be allright.

I think it depends on what stage of the project we're talking about. If the flooring is part of a kitchen remodel and new cabinets are being installed, then with proper planning, one could cut the flooring up to where the cabinets and island are to be installed and have those units sit on the flooring. I have done this a few times with my remodel contractors. On the other hand, if as SK points out, all the plumbing and electrical are already hooked up, plus venting and such, it wouldn't make sense to disconnect all that for a floor install. So then, yes, cut around the island and trim it out like any hardwood floor install. It's always risky working to bring two separate areas together. Islands are small and usually no big deal. It's those large family rooms and kitchens with peninsula cabinets that have two doorways opening into a long hallway and you need to get those two separate doorways lined up just so for the hallway. Talk about sweating it.

Thats why they pay us the big bucks. I know you know all the tricks to making them line up, (and I know a few). I'd sure like to come down to Antioch, and work with you for a job or two, just to exchange ideas.
What do yo know about the chem rex stuff I mentioned?