With a strategic approach, hardwood flooring installation can foster the aesthetics and the value of your space. This requires the selection of fine quality hardwood, professionals, and careful planning for a positive outcome.
Are you planning to enhance the looks of your Central Massachusetts home or business by installing hardwood floors? You are in the right place! This comprehensive guide will provide essential tips for successful hardwood flooring installation.
Choose Appropriate Hardwood
Before installing, selecting an appropriate hardwood that suits your lifestyle, preferences, and space is crucial without breaking the bank. The factors may include the type of wood, color, grain pattern, and durability.
Due to its stability and moisture resistance characteristics, engineered hardwood would be a better choice. This makes it more suitable for different environments.
Prepare the Wood
It is hard to install hardwood in different climate conditions, especially in humidity. You must leave the wood for some time to adjust to the environment.
This process prevents cracks, wrapping, or gapping after installation. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation in the room to avoid humidity.
Clean the Subfloor
Cleaning the subfloor before installing hardwood is crucial. Eliminate debris, adhesive residues, or old flooring properly.
Moreover, check the humidity level of the floor upon which you will install the hardwood. You can ensure the humidity level on the floor with the help of a moisture meter.
Underlayment
Depending on the subfloor and the kind of hardwood, you might need to add an underlayment. Moisture barriers or padding that offer additional cushioning and sound insulation can be used. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of underlayment you’re using.
Planning and Layout
Careful planning is necessary before starting a small task or a mega project. Without planning and appropriate strategies, you would face difficulties and adverse outcomes.
Avoid placing narrow strips close to walls, and make sure the pattern is pleasing and balanced. Start the installation from the room’s longest wall, usually perpendicular to the pillars of the floor.
Gaps in Expansion
Because of humidity, hardwood flooring may expand sometimes. This is why cross-ventilation must be considered.
For this movement, leave a gap of roughly 1/2 inch around the room’s perimeter. Baseboards or quarter-round molding can later be used to close the gap.
Suitable Fastening
You should fasten each plank properly to the subfloor while considering its characteristics. Do not over-drive the fastener, which could damage the wooden surface. Any nails that are sticking out can be countersunk with a nail set.
Finishing Touches
Clean the wooden surface area thoroughly after the hardwood floor is installed. Remove debris or dust upon that.
Apply the suggested finish to the surface, such as a protective sealer or polyurethane. This will enhance the wood’s appearance and longevity.
Contact Central Mass Hardwood Inc.
Hardwood flooring installation requires patience, detail, and planning, resulting in a durable, stunning floor. Contact the experts at Central Mass Hardwood Inc. and let us handle the installation for you! No matter your square footage or layout, Central Mass Hardwood Inc. can design and install the floor of your dreams.
