How to Install a Floor Medallion

A floor medallion is a type of ornamental flooring designed to give your room a dramatic decorative focal point. It’s made to order using colorful pieces of precisely cut hardwood mounted to a plywood backing. The best medallions are at least 5/16 inches thick and can be sanded multiple times.

Installation requires cutting into your floor with a router and then bedding the medallion in an adhesive spread on the subfloor. The process is painstaking but, thanks to the router template usually supplied by the medallion manufacturer, takes only a few hours.

Make sure to do these steps in one go. If you wait more than a few hours after routing the floor, your cutout may change shape or size slightly, forcing you to rout it again.

Choosing the Right Floor Medallion

Selecting the perfect floor medallion involves several important considerations to ensure it enhances the overall aesthetics and functionality of your space. Here are the key factors to keep in mind.

Size

The size of the medallion should be proportional to the room and the area where it will be installed. Measure the space carefully and consider how the medallion will fit within the room’s layout.

For large rooms or expansive entryways, a larger medallion can create a striking focal point. In smaller spaces, opt for a smaller, more subtle medallion that won’t overwhelm the room. Balance is crucial: A medallion that is too large can dominate the space, while one that is too small may not have the desired impact.

Also take your floor’s thickness into account. Medallions are made to match the thickness of your flooring. Before you order yours, use a hole-saw or chisel to cut out a small piece of flooring from the spot where the medallion will be, and send this piece to the medallion maker. Flooring that’s thinner than ⅜ inch can’t accommodate a solid-wood medallion.

Design

The design of the medallion should complement your existing decor and flooring style. Medallions come in various patterns, from intricate and traditional to sleek and modern. Consider the overall theme of your home — whether it’s classic, contemporary, rustic, or eclectic — and choose a medallion design that enhances that theme.

For example, a geometric or minimalist design might suit a modern interior, while a floral or scroll pattern could be perfect for a more traditional setting. Additionally, think about the color scheme and select a medallion that either matches or provides a tasteful contrast to your flooring and surrounding decor.

Wood Types

Selecting the right wood types for your medallion is essential for achieving a cohesive look. If you want a harmonious appearance, choose woods that match your existing flooring. This creates a seamless integration where the medallion blends naturally with the surrounding floor.

Alternatively, selecting contrasting woods can make the medallion stand out as a unique feature. For instance, pairing a dark wood medallion with a lighter floor can add visual interest and depth to the room. Consider the grain patterns and finishes of the woods as well to ensure a complementary aesthetic.

Quality

Quality is paramount when selecting a floor medallion. Look for medallions crafted from thick, solid wood pieces to ensure durability and longevity. Higher-quality medallions are less likely to warp, crack, or suffer from wear and tear over time.

Check the construction details, such as the precision of the cuts and the smoothness of the finish. Investing in a high-quality medallion not only enhances the beauty of your space but also provides a lasting addition that can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the project, take time to collect the right tools and materials. The floor medallion manufacturer will likely provide instructions on the type of adhesive you’ll need. But in general, below represents the list of items you’ll need.

5 Steps to Installing the Floor Medallion

Careful planning is essential to ensure your floor medallion is positioned correctly and securely. Choose a location that enhances the room’s layout and is visible and unobstructed by furniture.

You should also look for a location that complements your existing architectural features. Be sure to take time to consider the flow of foot traffic and how the medallion interacts with the overall design of the space. 

Then, you can follow these steps to properly install your new medallion.

Step 1: Find the Flooring Nails

Using 1-inch painter’s tape, make a rough approximation of the template’s shape. Lay the template on the tape, and mark it by running a pencil around the template’s inside edge. Place a magnetic nail finder where each floor joint crosses the pencil line. If you detect a nail, adjust the template location and repeat the process until the line is mostly nail-free.

Step 2: Rout a Circle

Using double-stick carpet tape, secure the template on the pencil line. Chuck a ½-inch template bit with a top bearing into a router, and run it clockwise around the inside of the template. Start with a 1/16-inch-deep pass, then increase the depth by 3/16 inch for each pass until the bit reaches the subfloor. If you hit a nail, pound it down with a nailset.

Step 3: Check the Subfloor

Pry up the flooring inside the routed groove, then remove the template and tape. Make sure that the subfloor is flat and even by laying a straightedge across the cutout and sliding a piece of scrap flooring underneath. If necessary, smooth the subfloor with 40-grit sandpaper and a random-orbit sander.

Step 4: Spread the Adhesive

Use a 3/16-inch V-notch trowel to comb wood-flooring adhesive evenly over the subfloor. We prefer Bostik’s Best moisture-cure urethane for its strong grip, low VOCs, and flexibility. If this adhesive gets on the floor or your hands, wipe it up with a cleaner.

Step 5: Drop in the Medallion

The trick here is to set the medallion in the cutout vertically, without any sideways tilt. An assistant with strong fingers will be invaluable. Once the medallion is in place, tap it flush with the surrounding floor, using a scrap of wood to prevent marring.

Finishing Touches

After installation, proper finishing ensures your floor medallion looks its best for years to come.

Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for proper curing time. Typically, this ranges from 24 to 48 hours. During this time, avoid walking on or placing furniture on the medallion and maintain consistent room temperature and humidity. 

Additionally, once the adhesive is fully cured, sand the entire floor, including the edges of the medallion, to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, apply your chosen finish to protect the wood and enhance its beauty.

Maintaining Your Floor Medallion

After your medallion is installed, there are some key things you should do to help keep it protected and in peak condition. To keep your medallion clean:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Use a slightly damp mop for deeper cleaning, avoiding excess water.
• Apply wood floor cleaner specifically designed for your finish type.

Protecting from Damage

Prevent damage to your medallion by:

• Using felt pads under furniture legs.
• Avoiding high heels or cleats on the medallion surface.
• Placing rugs in high-traffic areas around the medallion.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, you may encounter some challenges. If you notice small gaps between the medallion and surrounding flooring, use wood filler that matches the medallion color and apply carefully and sand smooth once dry.

For slight unevenness after installation allow the adhesive to fully cure and carefully sand the area to achieve a smooth transition. Finally, refinish as needed to blend with the surrounding floor.

Our Conclusion

Installing a floor medallion is a rewarding project that can enhance the aesthetics of your home and create a unique design. While it requires precision and patience, the result is a stunning focal point that adds character and value to your space. By following this guide and taking your time with each step, you can DIY the project to achieve professional-looking results.

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