DIY Installation Guide

A step-by-step guide for Homeowners & Contractors

Is your floor feeling uneven, bouncy, or no longer as solid underfoot as it used to be?

You're not alone. Sagging floors are common in many homes—especially older ones—but the good news is, you can fix it yourself with the right tools and a bit of guidance.

This step-by-step guide walks you through how to install the Adjustable FloorLock Bracing (AFB) System safely and effectively. Whether you're new to DIY or a seasoned weekend warrior, you'll feel confident tackling this project.

Step 1: Apply Temporary Support to Level the Floor

If your floor shows significant sagging, it’s a good idea to install a temporary support beam to bring it back to level before installing the FloorLock system.

How to Install a Temporary Support Beam:

1. Position a beam (wood or steel) perpendicular to the floor joists under the sagging area.

2. Use adjustable jacks or timber posts to gently raise the floor back into position.

   
   

Note: Be aware not to over raise the floor with the temporary support when a kitchen or bathroom is above, to prevent damaging waterproofing and/or cabinetry.

Why this matters: Lifting the floor before installation gives the FloorLock system the best chance to hold and maintain structural tension.

Step 2: Inspect and Reinforce End Joists

Before fixing any AFB components, inspect the end joists where loads transfer to the walls or supports.

What to Check:

• Are the end joists structurally sound?

• Will they withstand FloorLock’s tensioning?

Reinforcement Options:

• Install structural screws to tie joists to end walls or supporting beams.

• Add metal straps parallel to the FloorLock location—about 4 inches (100 mm) away—to distribute load and prevent shifting.

Why this matters: Reinforcing the end joists prevents deflection or failure under tension.

Step 3: Use the Template to Mark Mounting Bracket Positions

Accuracy is key. A straight, aligned installation ensures optimal performance.

Instructions:

1. Use a chalk line or straightedge to mark a reference line across the joists.

2. Align the FloorLock template with the line and mark bracket positions on both sides of the joist.

3. Repeat this step for all joists along the row.

Notes:

• Template fits joists 6" to 14" tall.

• For shorter joists (e.g., 8"), snap off excess template length along perforated lines.

• Stagger bracket placement to allow rods to pass:

  • Mount the top bracket on one side of the template line.

  • Mount the bottom bracket on the opposite side of the line on the same joist.

  • The top bracket should align opposite the bottom bracket on the adjacent joist to allow rods to crisscross.

Why this matters: Proper bracket alignment allows tension rods to pass without interference and ensures the bracing system functions as designed.

Step 4: Fix Mounting Brackets to Joists

With positions marked, install the brackets.

Instructions:

• Mount the top bracket on one side of the joist, then the bottom bracket on the opposite side—mirroring this on the next joist.

• This creates a zig-zag pattern of brackets across the joists.

Why this matters: This pattern keeps rods clear of each other while maximizing structural tension.

Tools:

• Power drill

• Screws (as included/recommended in your FloorLock kit)

Tips:

• Double-check alignment before securing.

• Use all provided screw holes for full holding strength.

Step 5: Insert Tension Rods into Brackets

Each rod is pre-fitted with a square housing unit.

Pro Tip:

Set each rod to ½ inch shorter than the joist gap before inserting. This saves time and effort during placement.

Installation:

• Insert the rounded end of the rod into the oval opening of the bracket.

• Follow either the X-cross or pass-through configuration as required for your layout.

Step 6: Tension the AFB System

This final step tightens the entire system to restore floor strength and minimize bounce or sag.

Sequence:

1. Start at the outermost joists.

2. Work inward, finishing with the center joist.

Tools:

• Manual ratchet wrench, or

• Power driver (optional for faster work)

Tighten each rod until it can no longer be turned by hand—this means the system is fully tensioned.

Final Thoughts

Fixing sagging floors may feel overwhelming—but with the Adjustable FloorLock Bracing System, it’s a totally achievable DIY project. By restoring structural integrity, you’re strengthening your home from the ground up.

Key Takeaways:

• Use temporary supports for sagging areas.

• Reinforce end joists before applying tension.

• Use the template for accurate bracket positioning.

• Follow a proper tensioning sequence—outside to center.

If you run into challenges or want peace of mind, feel free to contact us at FloorLock on hello@floorlock.com or consult a licensed contractor.

Ready to Roll Up Your Sleeves?

Take it step by step, trust your instincts, and enjoy the satisfaction of strengthening your home—floor by floor.

Need help? Contact FloorLock support on hello@floorlock.com

🎥 Video tutorials available on our website -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBOdPpfDjUE