The best way to adhere the strips is to purchase

some special gripper (tack strip) adhesive from your local dealer.
this is applied using a gun similar to caulk gun.
which is applied to the floor where the grippers will be placed. remove the
hammerable nails from your gripper and cut the gripper into 8 inch pieces.
this helps with applying the gripper to un-even surfaces and also helps if
the gripper is bowing slightly. this is explained in more detail at our sister site here
this will not penetrate your floor and thus help with damp problems that may
occur if penetrated.  Also this method will ensure the grippers are fixed
correctly and can be used again and again.  remember to stick the grippers
and leave for at least 24 hours till set. or follow guidelines shown on
particular adhesive you purchase, as some may differ.