Hardwood Flooring; Learn the Correct Way to Install It
Installing hardwood floors is a fantastic way to enhance the beauty and value of your home. Whether you’re renovating an existing space or building a new one, hardwood floors offer timeless elegance and durability. However, proper installation is crucial to ensure a flawless finish and long-lasting results. Explore these essential steps and considerations on how to install hardwood floors to help you achieve stunning and functional flooring for your home.
Prepare the Subfloor
So how to install hardwood floors? Before installing hardwood floors, it’s essential to prepare the subfloor properly. Start by removing any existing flooring materials, such as carpet, tile, or laminate. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level, as any imperfections can affect the installation process and the final result. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture levels in the subfloor, as excessive moisture can lead to issues such as warping or buckling of the hardwood planks.
Acclimate the Hardwood Flooring
Once the subfloor is prepared, it’s time to acclimate the hardwood flooring to the environment in which it will be installed. This step is crucial, as it allows the wood to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the space, minimizing the risk of expansion or contraction after the hardwood floor installation. Stack the hardwood planks in the room where they will be installed and leave them to acclimate for at least 72 hours, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Install the Hardwood Flooring
When the hardwood flooring is acclimated and the subfloor is prepared, it’s time to begin the installation process. Start by laying a moisture barrier, such as rosin paper or asphalt felt, over the subfloor to protect the hardwood from moisture and prevent squeaks. Next, begin laying the hardwood planks according to your desired pattern, leaving a small gap around the perimeter of the room to allow for expansion. Use a pneumatic nailer or flooring stapler to secure the planks to the subfloor, ensuring a tight fit.
Finish and Seal the Hardwood Floors
Once all the hardwood planks are installed, it’s time to finish and seal the floors to protect them from damage and enhance their appearance. Apply a high-quality wood finish, such as polyurethane or oil-based sealer, using a brush or roller. Allow the finish to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying additional coats as needed. Once the finish is dry, buff the floors to remove any imperfections and achieve a smooth, glossy finish that will last for years to come.
How to Install Hardwood Floors? Hire Experts!
To start your flooring project, you need to work with Sarah’s Flooring Creations. We professionally install hardwood floors in Kent, WA. Contact us at (206) 492-6358 for more details.