How to Cover a Dining Table with Hardwood Flooring: Expert DIY Guide

By MaryAnn Carter

Skill level: Estimated cost: $150 Time:

Tools and Materials

• Air compressor
• Nail gun
• 2" finishing nails
• Tape measure
• Paint brush
• Stain
• Rags
• Orbital sander
• 40-grit sanding pads
• Speed square
• Miter saw
• Table saw
• 3.25" hardwood flooring (1 box)
• Polyurethane
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Hammer
• Construction adhesive
• Caulk gun
• Paint and primer in one
• Pencil

Find all tools and materials for this project at Lowes.com.

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Bostitch 6 Gallon Portable Electric Pancake Air Compressor (1 Tool Included)

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Hitachi 16 Gauge 2.5 Inch Finish Nail Gun

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Hitachi 16 Gauge Pneumatic Finishing Nails in 2" (1000 count)

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Minwax Wood Finish Jacobean Oil-Based Interior Oil (32 fl oz)

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Kobalt 12 in. 15-Amp Dual Bevel Sliding Laser Compound Miter Saw

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Kobalt 10in Table Saw 15 Amp Carbide Tipped

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Bruce Frisco 3.25 Inch Gunstock Oak Solid Hardwood Flooring (22 sf)

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Minwax 32-fl oz Oil-Based Polyurethane Satin

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Kobalt 16oz Smooth Face Steel Claw Hammer

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Blue Hawk 3-Pack Angled Poly Angle Paint Brushes Variety Pack

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Kobalt 25 foot tape measure

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Step 1: Clean the Table

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Clean the existing tabletop thoroughly. Although construction adhesive is durable, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of oils for optimal adhesion.

Step 2: Prepare the Frame Pieces

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

The frame provides a finished edge and guides the flooring cutouts. Calculate frame height by adding flooring thickness to tabletop thickness. Use a table saw to rip tabs and slots from frame boards.

Step 3: Cut and Attach Frame Pieces

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Cut corners at 45 degrees with a miter saw for a seamless fit. Rip tongue-and-groove edges on the table saw. Secure frame to table sides with 2" finishing nails, ensuring it's flush with the future flooring top.

Step 4: Cut Starter Pieces

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Rip tongue-and-groove from corner pieces for a tight fit. Set table saw to tongue/groove width first, then make 45-degree cuts on miter saw—keeping boards longer aids sawing.

Step 5: Extend the Tabletop

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Start in one corner, working diagonally. Use the frame to guide 45-degree cuts: lay board along edge, mark with speed square, and cut to length.

Step 6: Adhere the Boards

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Apply construction adhesive to engage tongue-and-groove joints for a gap-free, secure hold. Tap boards into place using scrap wood and a hammer or mallet—avoid direct hits to prevent damage. For wider sections, butt boards end-to-end with 90-degree cuts, staggering joints. Only frame-abutting boards need 45-degree angles.

Step 7: Prepare for Finishing

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Sand off existing finish with an orbital sander and 40-grit pads. Vacuum all dust before staining. Apply polyurethane for spill- and stain-resistant protection. Skip if pre-finished flooring suits your style.

Step 8: Finish the Base

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

Sand and paint or stain the table base to match.

Photo by MaryAnn Carter

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