Installing A Hardwood Floor

While it is highly recommended that homeowners seek professional guidance when installing

hardwood floors, hardwood floor installation that not always an option. Some people find that doing it themselves is a cost-effective way to upgrade their homes. Others think its difficult to find a contractor that offers quality hardwood flooring.

While there are affordable professional installation options available, and pursuing those options is sometimes the only way you can receive a full warranty, some people still insist upon the DIY methods. Even if thats not the case for you, learning about the various types of installation methods will assist you in choosing the proper one for you, and in choosing the right contractor to do it!

There are various types of flooring installation methods and those methods depend on the type of floor you purchase.

If you are going to be installing an engineered hardwood floor over concrete, you should first install a plywood subfloor and attach it to the slab of concrete. The subfloor is fastened using nails or concrete screws. This creates a moisture barrier and allows the floor to properly adhere.

A floating floor can also be used, where floor boards overlap each other so the subfloor and floor will stay put. It is not recommended that you glue a hardwood floor directly to concrete ad the potential is far too great for creaking and for planks to come undone. The only time a glue-down is recommended is when its done by a highly-skilled wood flooring professional.

Aside from the gluedown method, you can staple or nail a hardwood floor. Because nails and staples need a proper bite, a proper subfloor for this is a must! To nail in a hardwoor floor, you need the proper tools, such as a pneumatic nailer. No bloody thumbs with those! Pneumatic nailers, just like staplers, require very little effort or force to launch the adhesive into the floor. Just note that sometimes nails can seal the floor too tight which isnt always the best thing. Since wood contracts and expands with climate and atmospheric pressure, it needs breath ability.

Whether you are considering doing this yourself or hiring a contractor to install your floor, expect the project to take 10-12 hours. Be weary of any contractor who says they can get it done faster it could signify sloppy work. With hardwood floors, its best to take your time and make sure the wood floor installation is done correctly.

by: Laine McKenna

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