1. Choosing the Right Flooring Type

Selecting the perfect flooring type is the foundation of a successful installation. Each option offers distinct features and advantages. Here’s a closer look at your choices:

a. Laminate Flooring

• Affordability: Laminate is budget-friendly and provides an economical way to achieve the look of hardwood or tile without the high cost.
• Versatility: Available in various styles and finishes, laminate offers an array of design possibilities.
• Durability: It’s resistant to scratches, fading, and stains, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
• Ease of Maintenance: Laminate is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort.

b. Hardwood Flooring

• Timeless Beauty: Hardwood floors have a classic, timeless appearance that adds elegance and warmth to any space.
• Durability: With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, making them an excellent long-term investment.
• Variety of Species: A wide range of wood species and stains allow you to achieve your desired aesthetic.
• Home Value: Hardwood flooring can significantly increase the resale value of your home.

c. Engineered Wood Flooring

• Stability: Engineered wood is designed for stability, making it suitable for areas with fluctuating humidity levels, such as basements.
• Natural Look: It provides the natural beauty of hardwood without the sensitivity to moisture.
• Easy Installation: Engineered wood is often easier to install than solid hardwood due to its construction.
• Versatility: It comes in various species and finishes, allowing for customization.

d. Tile Flooring

• Durability: Tile is exceptionally durable, making it ideal for high-moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Design Versatility: Tiles come in a vast array of colors, patterns, and sizes, providing numerous design options.
• Easy Maintenance: Tiles are easy to clean and resistant to stains and spills.
• Coolness: Tile flooring stays cool underfoot, which can be refreshing in hot climates.

e. Vinyl Flooring

• Waterproof: Vinyl is entirely waterproof, making it suitable for areas prone to spills and moisture, like bathrooms and basements.
• Budget-Friendly: Vinyl is a cost-effective flooring option that still offers style and durability.
• Comfort: It provides a softer, warmer surface compared to tile or hardwood.
• Easy Installation: Vinyl flooring is often available in easy-to-install planks or tiles.

When choosing your flooring type, consider your space’s unique requirements, your budget, and your design preferences. Each option has its own benefits and can be tailored to your specific needs. Keep these factors in mind as you move forward with your flooring installation project.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the next steps, including preparing your space for installation and the installation process itself.

2. Preparing Your Space

Before the installation of your new flooring can begin, it’s essential to prepare your space. Proper preparation ensures that the installation process goes smoothly and the finished result is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

a. Remove Furniture and Belongings

• Clear the Room: Start by removing all furniture and belongings from the room where the new flooring will be installed. This includes chairs, tables, cabinets, and any other items that can obstruct the installation process.
• Empty Closets and Cabinets: Don’t forget to empty closets and cabinets, as installers may need access to these areas for a seamless installation.

b. Subfloor Inspection and Repairs

• Subfloor Evaluation: Inspect the subfloor to ensure it is clean, level, and free from any damage. The success of your new flooring installation depends on the quality of the subfloor.
• Cleaning: Vacuum and clean the subfloor to remove dust and debris. Any unevenness or debris on the subfloor can affect the integrity of the installation.
• Address Issues: If the subfloor has uneven patches, visible damage, or requires leveling, address these issues before moving forward. Any problems with the subfloor should be resolved to create a smooth and even surface.

c. Moisture Considerations

• Moisture Testing: Depending on your flooring type, it’s crucial to conduct a moisture test to determine if there is excess moisture in the subfloor. High moisture levels can lead to issues with adhesion and damage to your new flooring.

d. Temperature and Humidity Control

• Maintain Stable Conditions: Ensure that the room’s temperature and humidity levels are stable. Extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity can impact the flooring material. Maintaining consistent conditions helps to acclimate the new flooring and ensures its long-term stability.

e. Notify Installers of Any Special Considerations

• Inform the Installers: Communicate any specific requirements or considerations with the professional installers. If there are unique aspects of your space that need attention, such as built-in features, irregular layouts, or special design elements, inform the installers so they can plan accordingly.

Properly preparing your space sets the stage for a successful flooring installation. It ensures that your new flooring is installed on a stable and clean surface, which is essential for both the longevity and the aesthetics of your flooring.

In the next section, we’ll explore acclimatization, an important step to help your new flooring material adapt to the environment in which it will be installed.

3. Acclimatization

Acclimatization is a critical step in the flooring installation process, especially for certain materials like hardwood and engineered wood. It involves allowing the flooring material to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the environment in which it will be installed. This step ensures that your new flooring performs optimally and reduces the risk of future problems. Here’s what you need to know:

a. Why Acclimatization Matters

• Minimizes Movement: Acclimatization minimizes the risk of the flooring material expanding or contracting after installation, which can lead to gaps, warping, or buckling.
• Preserves Appearance: Allowing the material to adapt to its environment helps maintain its appearance and structural integrity over time.
• Ensures Warranty Compliance: Many flooring manufacturers require acclimatization as part of their warranty conditions. Failing to follow this step may void your warranty.

b. Acclimatization Time

The specific acclimatization time required varies depending on the flooring material and the environment. Here are some general guidelines:

• Hardwood and Engineered Wood: These materials often require several days to a week of acclimatization. The planks should be left in the room where they will be installed, stacked with spacers between them to allow for air circulation.
• Laminate, Tile, and Vinyl: These materials are generally less sensitive to environmental changes, but it’s still a good practice to allow them to acclimate for at least 48 hours before installation.

c. Environmental Factors

• Temperature: The room should be set to the typical temperature it will maintain after installation. Most flooring materials prefer a consistent temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
• Humidity: Maintain the room’s relative humidity within the range recommended by the manufacturer. Ideal humidity levels can vary depending on the flooring type.

d. Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for acclimatization. These guidelines are specific to the type and brand of flooring you’ve chosen and are designed to ensure a successful and trouble-free installation.

Acclimatization is a crucial step in the flooring installation process. By allowing the flooring material to adapt to the conditions of your space, you help ensure a stable and long-lasting installation. It’s a relatively simple step that can prevent many future flooring issues.

In the next section, we’ll delve into the actual installation process, explaining the steps for different types of flooring materials.

4. Installation Process

The installation process for different types of flooring materials varies. Each material has its own unique requirements and techniques. Here’s an overview of the general installation process for some common flooring types:

a. Laminate Flooring

1. Subfloor Preparation: Ensure your subfloor is clean, level, and free of any imperfections. A foam underlayment is typically placed over the subfloor to provide cushioning and moisture resistance.
2. Underlayment Installation: Roll out and secure the underlayment across the subfloor. It provides a smooth, even surface for the laminate planks.
3. Plank Installation: Laminate planks typically have a click-and-lock design that makes installation relatively simple. Start in one corner of the room and work your way across, ensuring a snug fit.
4. Spacing: Leave a small expansion gap (usually around ¼ inch) around the edges of the room to accommodate any natural expansion and contraction of the laminate.
5. Trimming: Use a saw to cut planks to fit the edges of the room. It’s crucial to measure and cut precisely to create a professional-looking installation.
6. Transition Strips: Install transition strips at doorways to create a seamless transition between rooms with different flooring types.

b. Hardwood Flooring

1. Subfloor Preparation: The subfloor must be clean, level, and dry. Ensure that any moisture issues are addressed before installation.
2. Acclimatization: Allow the hardwood to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity.
3. Moisture Barrier: Install a moisture barrier over the subfloor to protect the hardwood from potential moisture damage.
4. Stapling or Nailing: Depending on the type of hardwood and the subfloor, you’ll either staple or nail the planks down, starting from one wall and working your way across the room.
5. Tongue-and-Groove Connections: Many hardwood planks have tongue-and-groove connections, which fit together snugly. Ensure a tight fit and proper alignment.
6. Baseboards and Trim: Install baseboards and trim to cover the expansion gap left around the perimeter of the room.

c. Tile Flooring

1. Subfloor Preparation: Ensure that the subfloor is clean, level, and dry. Cement backer board may be necessary to provide a stable surface for the tiles.
2. Layout: Plan the tile layout, ensuring that it’s symmetrical and visually appealing.
3. Adhesive or Mortar: Apply adhesive or mortar to the subfloor using the notched side of a trowel.
4. Tile Placement: Place the tiles in the adhesive or mortar, starting from the center of the room and working your way outward.
5. Spacing and Leveling: Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps between tiles. Ensure that the tiles are level.
6. Grouting: Once the adhesive or mortar has set, apply grout between the tiles, filling in the gaps. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge.
7. Sealing: Depending on the type of tile, you may need to apply a sealer after the grout has dried.

d. Vinyl Flooring

1. Subfloor Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, level, and free of imperfections.
2. Adhesive Application: Apply adhesive to the subfloor. Some vinyl flooring comes with adhesive backing, making installation simpler.
3. Plank or Tile Placement: Lay the vinyl planks or tiles in a staggered pattern, starting from one wall and working your way across the room.
4. Seaming: If you’re using sheet vinyl, you may need to seam two pieces together, ensuring they align perfectly.
5. Rolling: Roll a heavy roller over the vinyl flooring to ensure a secure bond with the adhesive.

The installation process for each flooring type has its nuances. It’s crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines and, for complex projects, consider professional installation to ensure the best results.

In the following sections, we’ll explore post-installation care and the benefits of seeking professional help for your flooring project.

5. Post-Installation Care

Your new flooring is in place, and your space has been transformed. To ensure it remains in excellent condition and continues to enhance your home, it’s important to implement a post-installation care routine:

a. Furniture Placement and Protection

• Furniture Pads: Place protective pads or glides under furniture legs to prevent scratching and dents when moving or shifting items.
• Area Rugs: Consider using area rugs in high-traffic areas to reduce wear on the flooring and protect against dirt and debris.

b. Regular Cleaning

• Sweep or Vacuum: Regularly remove dirt, dust, and debris with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner with a non-abrasive attachment. This prevents abrasion and keeps the floor looking clean.
• Mop: Periodically mop the floor using a mild, pH-neutral cleaner recommended by the flooring manufacturer. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaning agents.
• Stain Removal: Promptly clean up spills and stains to prevent staining or damage. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to blot and clean the affected area.

c. Area Rugs and Doormats

• Use Doormats: Place doormats at entrances to trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked onto the floor. In high-traffic areas, consider using walk-off mats to reduce wear and tear.

d. Preventive Maintenance

• Furniture Protectors: Use furniture protectors or felt pads under heavy furniture legs to prevent scratches and scuffs.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that can damage the flooring.

e. Periodic Maintenance

• Reapply Topcoats: Depending on the type of flooring, periodic reapplication of topcoats or finishes may be required to maintain aesthetics and durability.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect the floor for any signs of damage or wear, such as scratches, cracks, or worn areas. Address these issues promptly to prevent further damage.

f. Humidity Control

• Maintain Humidity: If you live in an area with varying humidity levels, consider using a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain a stable indoor humidity level. Extreme fluctuations can affect the flooring.

Proper post-installation care ensures that your flooring remains in top condition. By following a regular maintenance routine and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure the longevity and beauty of your flooring.

In the next section, we’ll discuss the importance of seeking professional assistance when it comes to the installation and maintenance of flooring.

6. Seek Professional Help

While some flooring installations can be DIY projects, many situations benefit significantly from the expertise of professional installers. Here are the key reasons why seeking professional assistance is essential for a successful flooring project:

a. Installation Expertise

1. Skill and Experience: Professional installers have the training and experience required to install various types of flooring correctly. They are familiar with the nuances of different materials and can ensure a seamless, durable, and aesthetically pleasing installation.
2. Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is a critical part of the installation process. Professionals have the equipment and expertise needed to ensure that the existing surface is properly cleaned, repaired, and profiled to create an ideal base for the flooring.
3. Adherence to Specifications: Professionals can follow manufacturer guidelines and specifications for mixing and applying adhesives, mortar, or any other installation materials, ensuring that they cure properly and perform as expected.

b. Safety and Compliance

1. Safety Protocols: Flooring installation often involves the use of adhesives, power tools, and other potentially hazardous materials. Professionals are well-versed in safety protocols and take measures to protect both themselves and the environment during installation.
2. Building Codes: They are knowledgeable about local building codes and regulations, ensuring that the installation complies with the necessary legal requirements.

c. Longevity and Durability

1. Quality Assurance: Professional installers can offer warranties on their work, providing peace of mind that the installation is of high quality and built to last.
2. Maintenance Guidance: Experts can provide valuable advice on maintaining the flooring to maximize its lifespan, helping you avoid common pitfalls and issues.

d. Complex Projects

For larger or more complex projects, such as those in commercial or industrial settings, professional assistance becomes even more critical due to factors like:

1. Size and Scale: Larger spaces or unique layouts often require specialized tools and knowledge for a successful installation.
2. Specialized Applications: Certain industries, like healthcare or hospitality, may have unique requirements that professionals are well-equipped to address.
3. Customization: If you require custom designs, patterns, or complex color schemes, professionals have the expertise to deliver the desired aesthetic results.

While some smaller flooring projects may be suitable for DIY enthusiasts, many situations benefit significantly from the expertise of professional installers. Their experience, adherence to safety protocols, and knowledge of the unique characteristics of various flooring materials are invaluable in ensuring that your project is a long-term success.

In the final section, we’ll conclude the article and offer some success stories and testimonials to inspire confidence in the benefits of professional flooring installation and maintenance.

7. Enjoy Your New Flooring

As you reach the end of your flooring installation journey, it’s time to step back and appreciate the transformation that has taken place in your space. Your new flooring, carefully chosen, meticulously installed, and lovingly maintained, has the potential to enhance your home in numerous ways:

a. Aesthetic Enhancement

Your new flooring adds an element of style and beauty to your space. Whether you’ve chosen the warmth of hardwood, the versatility of laminate, the durability of tile, or the practicality of vinyl, your flooring contributes to the overall aesthetics of your home.

b. Comfort and Functionality

Every step you take on your new flooring is a reminder of the comfort it provides. Hardwood feels solid underfoot, while carpet offers a cozy surface for lounging. Tile is easy to clean, and vinyl is comfortable to walk on. Your choice of flooring is a reflection of your lifestyle and comfort preferences.

c. Increased Home Value

Quality flooring doesn’t just enhance your daily life; it can also increase the resale value of your home. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with updated, well-maintained flooring, making it a valuable investment for the future.

d. Easier Maintenance

New flooring is often easier to maintain than older, worn-out options. With the proper care, your flooring will remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

e. Personal Satisfaction

Your flooring choice represents your taste and style. Every time you walk into your home, you’re met with a space that reflects your personality and preferences. This personal satisfaction adds immeasurable value to your everyday life.

Now that your new flooring is in place and you’ve embarked on this journey, it’s time to enjoy the many benefits it offers. Take pride in your space and the investment you’ve made. Whether you’re hosting gatherings, relaxing with family, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, your new flooring is a foundational element of your home that you can cherish for years to come.

We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the world of flooring installation and the benefits of professional assistance. If you have any further questions or require assistance in your flooring project, don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who specialize in flooring installation and maintenance. They are here to help you make the most of your home’s transformation.

Thank you for accompanying us on this journey to enhance your living space. We wish you years of enjoyment and satisfaction with your beautiful new flooring.  Call Quality Floors for Less Reno and we will make it right the first time!

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Everyone wants to know what is the healthiest type of flooring? Of course, choosing the right flooring can not only ensure that your home looks good, but can also guarantee it is healthy and safe for your family as well. Choosing the healthiest type of flooring depends on balancing many different factors and weighing up a number of different flooring qualities that meet your family needs, as well. This is your chance to keep your home free of allergies, disease, and injuries, whereas the wrong flooring choice can detract from the health, safety and appearance of your environment. Let’s look at different flooring types, weight their cons and pros, and decide which of them will be the healthiest choice for you.

Pros and Cons of different flooring

1. Choosing carpets

Carpet is favorite flooring for all homes that brings a warm, cozy and soft atmosphere to any space. Healthy carpet is made in a range of natural fibers that are gentle on your skin and better for you.

Pros:

• Carpet is soft and easy on the joints.
• Carpet prevents kids and the elderly of falling.
• Carpet can stay relatively free of dust, dirt, and pathogens if regularly cleaned with professional carpet cleaning.
• Carpets are easy to clean.

Cons:

• Natural carpets absorb dirt, dust very quickly.
• Bacteria and germs should be cleaned professionally.

2. Choosing tiles and stone

These hard flooring options are made of natural materials so that they are healthy. Also, this type of flooring is easy to keep clean and hygienic. Is this the healthiest type of flooring? It depends on what materials you choose.

Pros:

• Extremely easy to clean without professional help.
• Low dust, dirt and pathogen retention.

Cons:

• Hard to clean on the joints.
• No cushioning for falls.
• Some sealing agents can contain VOC’s (volatile organic compounds – which contribute to a number of health issues).

3. Choosing hardwood floors

Hardwood floors look stylish and elegant. They are easy to clean and maintain. Hardwood floors can boast their practical properties. They can be half-natural so that not very healthy, as well. Choose carefully.

Pros:

• Oiled floors are healthier than polyurethane.
• Dust, dirt and pathogen retention is minimal.
• Professional hardwood floor cleaning can reach deep into cracks to remove old dirt and dust.

Cons:

• Dirt and dust can penetrate into cracks and cause allergies without professional help.
• The top layer may contain health damaging VOC’s.

4. Choosing engineered hardwood floors & luxury vinyl tiles

These types of modern flooring can be named a cost-effective alternative to hardwood or stone floors. There are millions of designs but it can be hardly named the healthiest type of flooring.

Pros:

• Easy to clean.
• Not that hard as tile or stone.
• Finishes can contain natural, anti-allergenic and anti-bacterial properties to keep your home hygienic.

Cons:

Some layers may contain VOC’s.

When choosing the healthiest flooring, pay attention to these factors

So, you’ve already picked the healthiest type of flooring for your house. Not that fast! There are several factors you should also consider. Of course, healthy components are on the TOP of your choosing list.

Natural elements

If you really want to find the healthiest type of flooring, never forget to check on the flooring inside and outside your homes as well. Your patios and entrances will benefit from having the right flooring type as natural elements play a huge role in making your in-house atmosphere healthy.

Temperature

Sadly, a lot of homeowners overlook the effects that temperature plays in the kind of flooring they have. Installing natural wood flooring is healthy, but extremely hot or cold temperature can damage wood surfaces. Wood has always been a common choice for flooring, but they are not as durable as compared to tiles and vinyl in places where the temperature goes extremely high or low. So before you go about installing any kind of flooring in your whole home, ask yourself, will it be able to lay one or another type of flooring in the rooms with different temperature conditions.

Moisture

Moisture means as much as temperature for your home flooring. For example, a home with a wooden theme would be exquisite, so is home with a modern contemporary vibe that uses classic marble in the whole area. But when it comes to bathrooms, the practicality should always be a priority. Having wooden floorings in your bathroom is definitely out of the picture, so is having marble floorings as it can be very slippery when wet. Checking your floor materials by actually testing how it feels when wet, before installing them is recommended.

Usage and traffic

Usage and traffic are also very important factors in choosing flooring material for your home. The kitchen is always one of the busiest areas in a home, and it is also one of the messiest. Do you have a dog? Does he eat in the kitchen? That pasta sauce that spilled on the counter managed to reach the ground and can cause a stain in some surface types, especially carpets. You can step them and scatter across the room. Of course, you may pick the healthiest flooring for each room in your house, but try to evaluate the foot traffic and the usage in your home first.

If you want to pick the healthiest flooring for your home, NOTE THAT:

• Instead of carpet, chose hard-surfaced flooring and rugs that can be removed and cleaned outside.
• Look for non-toxic and eco-friendly options. Ask questions of manufacturers and installers regarding materials used, safety and environmental claims.
• Decline any stain-resistance treatments.
• Look for products made without vinyl such as hardwood, linoleum and ceramic tile.
• For the health of our families, please continue to support meaningful legislation that prevents these chemicals from ending up in our home

Finding the healthiest flooring for your home depends on a number of different factors, and requires you to consider your needs, lifestyle, budget and current health status. By seeing the pros and cons and understanding the maintenance needs of each flooring type, you are better equipped to choose really the healthiest flooring for you.

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• Scratching

Do you know that even one bad scratch can make you to completely refinish the floor in a room? If you don’t like to live in a room full of scratches for years, replacing the floor can be more cost effective and allow you to choose a floor with a special anti-scratch layer.

• Discoloration

Hardwood can change colors for many reasons, but primarily it has to do with stains and fading caused by the sun. The most common discoloration is gray and black, but some floors may fade in color. The problem is hot when one part of the floor is exposed to direct sunlight. Discolored boards can be difficult to refinish at all, so replacement is more likely a better option.

• Watering

If your wood floors are exposed to water for an extended period of time it is possible that they will become stained, warped or otherwise damaged. Separation of wood, cupping and dark areas are generally irreversible. If your home experiences any sort of flooding issue, plumbing related or otherwise, be sure to contact a cleanup crew right away in order to increase your chances of saving the hardwood.

• Multiple refinishes

Refinishing hardwood involves sanding and staining. If you have already refinished your floor before and did it more than 3 times, it is likely best to replace than conduct refinishing any more. The sanding will compromise the structural integrity of the flooring as the wood is thinned out. This means it is more likely to crack.

REFINISH OR REPLACE?

When most people think of hiring a hardwood floor refinishing service, they think of the new beauty that comes from those services. Of course, this makes sense if it is possible to bring your floor back to life and give it a new shine and luster. But, there are other benefits that homeowners get when they have their old flooring refinished. So, what’s the matter?

Let’s compare these processes by…

Price

Price is the first obvious variable to consider. Traditionally, it is almost always cheaper to refinish your floor than to replace it. When replacing, you must consider the cost of the new wood as well as the installation. You can save some money by installing the floor yourself, but this is a very time-taking process that needs specialized knowledge and precision. You can typically refinish a wood floor yourself, with just a few inexpensive solutions.

Aesthetic aspect

If your only goal is to brighten your floors and restore their original shine, consider refinishing them. But if you want to change some aspect of the floor itself, like the style of the wood, the direction of the planks or the consistency of the material, you will need to invest in a full replacement. Refinishing is ideal to restore existing wood, while replacement is ideal for establishing a completely new look or feel.

Quality

You cannot restore every wood floor by simply refinishing it. If your wood floor has become warped or if several of the planks have become damaged, you will typically need to replace the entire floor, as finishing will only brighten an already-damaged surface. Do you feel the difference? On really old floors, you may see the tongue where the boards come together, or your boards may lack adequate thickness. Floors like this are definite candidates for replacement, as refinishing is purely cosmetic.

Time of execution

Refinishing can actually take much more time than fully replacing a wood floor. Are you surprised? Refinishing is a messy, meticulous process than can take approximately four to five days, during which the floor surface must remain completely untouched. The process requires sanders, buffers, scrapers, brushes, base coat sealers, putty knives and sometimes paint. Replacement, on the other hand, can be done in considerably less time using only lumber, a couple of saws, measuring tape, a flat bar, a chalk line and a nail gun. So, sure enough, considering the time, you’d pick replacing.

Age of your floor

The age of your floor also plays an important role. If your floor has been in place for decades, it may resist refinishing for a number of reasons. For instance, if it has already been refinished several times or if too much of the surface wood has become exposed, refinishing your floor may have little effect. For very old floors, replacement can often be preferable to refinishing.

Planning to DIY? There are many steps to take: sanding, patching, staining, and top coating.

If you want your floors professional refinished or replaced, you can find local contractors using several online services. Average cost depends on your area. Read all of their online reviews carefully. Got questions? Message the person who left the review for additional information. Concerned about fake reviews? Authentic ones usually provide details about the user’s experience.

If you have doubts about the company’s professionalism, check the feedback’s for complaints. But if you spot one, don’t assume the worst until you read how the consumer’s claim was resolved. Even contractors make mistakes from time to time. But a well-intention-ed one will settle customer problems in a professional manner where all parties are satisfied. Make sure that the contractor is bonded, licensed and insured to work in your area. To do ask for each number and certification, then confirm if all are up to date.

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CHOOSING YOUR FLOORS

First off, why hardwoods? What if wall-to-wall carpet is much better? Carpet can be a good easy option. Besides, hardwood is a good choice for a cozy bonus room. Let’s find out WHY.

Engineered vs. Solid Wood Flooring

As it was discussed in different internet guides, the two main types of hardwood flooring—solid and engineered—differ significantly.

Engineered wood flooring is often thinner than solid wood flooring. It is manufactured with a thin surface layer of hardwood and a core that’s more like plywood. If you intend to install the floor yourself, engineered-wood flooring is usually the best bet because it is pre-finished, eliminating the need for sanding and finishing the floor, which dramatically simplifies the job.

In addition, because engineered-wood flooring is made from layers of wood sandwiched and bonded together, it is more stable than solid wood and resistant to changes caused by extreme temperatures and humidity. Engineered flooring, at best, can only be sanded and refinished once or twice because its finish layer is very thin (from 1/16″ to 3/16″). Engineered-wood flooring (or other flooring materials, such as tile or vinyl) may be installed above or below grade. This often plays an important role.

Solid wood flooring is a traditional favorite. It usually is thicker than engineered flooring and is clearly cut from a single board of hardwood. Solid-wood flooring has a tendency to warp, twist, expand, and contract with changes in moisture and temperature. On the flip side, solid flooring can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Bathrooms and kitchens are another story. Though moisture is present in both areas, you can protect the surface of a solid-wood floor with a sturdy, protective finish.

PREPARING FOR HARDWOOD FLOORING

Because installing hardwood flooring is usually a major, expensive home improvement, it pays to ensure a quality, durable result. If you are going to install hardwood flooring yourself, it needs proper preparation. You can find a lot of helpful videos and reading materials about hot to install and what instruments you need.

New wood flooring should be laid on a clean, smooth, level, structurally sound base. Depending on the particular flooring, this base may be a previous floor covering, an existing wood floor in good condition, a new plywood subfloor, or even a moisture-proofed concrete slab.

By installing wood over an existing floor, you bypass the messy job of removing the old flooring, and you gain instant soundproofing and insulation from the old floor. A disadvantage to leaving old flooring in place is that you must correct any irregularities in it. Also, the new floor will raise the flooring level, making the transition to a hallway or an adjoining room awkward.

REMOVING DOORS AND BASE MOLDING

Whether or not you’re installing over old flooring, the first step in preparing floors for hardwood is to remove doors and base shoe molding. Number the molding pieces so you can easily replace them when you’re finished. Make sure that the use and conditions of the room won’t have a negative impact on the flooring during installation. Thus, too much foot traffic on a new floor or excessive temperature or humidity swings can diminish the quality of—and sometimes even ruin—wood flooring. Proper preparation techniques depend upon the type of flooring you’re installing and the conditions of the base that will be beneath it.

PREPARING SUBFLOOR FOR HARDWOOD FLOORING

Most wood flooring goes on a typical raised, wood-framed subfloor that is surfaced with plywood or OSB (oriented-strand board) subflooring panels. The subfloor must be clean, dry, flat, structurally sound, squeak-free, and clear of any surface bumps or fasteners. Use a long, straight board and a carpenter’s level to check for any dips or rises. Sand down bumps and fill dips with leveling compound.

BEFORE HARDWOOD FLOORING IS DELIVERED

The conditions of your house must be ready for hardwood flooring before the material is delivered. In fact, wood flooring is typically one of the last installations during a remodel. To avoid physical damage to the surface, be sure it goes in after all construction and completed installation of any fixtures and appliances that will not sit on top of it. Heat and humidity can dramatically affect expansion and contraction of hardwood flooring.

HOW HEAT & HUMIDITY AFFECT HARDWOOD FLOORING

Wood flooring—especially solid wood flooring—is very susceptible to moisture problems. Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, wood flooring must be allowed to adjust to the house’s normal humidity level before installation to prevent expansion and contraction that can spoil the final job. This means any packaging should be removed and the wood should be stacked for several days in the room where it will be installed. Do not store it in the garage or an exterior patio.

HOW TO CUT & FASTEN HARDWOOD FLOORING

The instructions given here are generic for nailing solid-wood flooring to a plywood or OSB subfloor. Before beginning, read the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular flooring.

CUTTING HARDWOOD FLOORING

A power miter saw makes smooth and straight cuts.

Of course, you need special instruments to do that. To rip flooring, use a power saw that has a fence, such as a job saw or table saw. For crosscuts, equip a power circular saw with a carbide-tipped 40-tooth blade or, even better, use a power miter (“chop”) saw with the same type of blade. Cut the boards face down with a circular saw or face up with a job saw, table saw, or power miter saw. Be sure all end cuts are precisely square (at a 90-degree angle).

For making curved or irregular cuts, you can use a portable saber saw (jigsaw). The blade on this type of tool cuts on the upstroke, often splintering the top surface. So, if the cut will not be covered by molding, be sure to turn the flooring face down during cutting. If the cut won’t be visible, it’s usually easier to work with the flooring face up.

Once all the boards are in, it is just a matter of cleaning everything up. Then it is on to installing the baseboard, quarter round, and window molding. So if you’re about to undertake a hardwood floor installation, just ready yourself for some heavy box hauling, tedious hand-nailing, and exhilarating mallet smacking. So, do you still think of installing hardwood flooring yourself?

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