Hardwood Installation
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So you’re thinking about installing hardwood in your home? Hardwood flooring sets the bar when it comes to flooring. Classy and exceedingly durable (we’re talking upwards of 100 years), hardwood flooring is sure to add vibrancy and value to your home. At Advanced Flooring, we’re here to guide you through every step of your hardwood installation.
Choose An Installation Method
Before you take the plunge, it’s important to recognize the different hardwood installation methods. There are three main types: glue-down, nail-down, and click-lock (floating). The best method for you will reflect your lifestyle, installation experience, budget, choice of hardwood, and subfloor.
Type One: Glue-Down
Also known as adhesive, this method involves gluing the hardwood planks directly onto the subfloor.
Pros:
- Solid feel and sound
- Least likely to experience deflections between the flooring and subflooring
- No squeaking
- More permanent installation
- Can be used with both solid and engineered hardwood
Cons:
- Increased labor cost
- Extra subfloor prep may be needed
Type Two: Nail-Down
Nail-down is the most popular installation system, particularly for solid hardwood flooring. Planks are nailed into a wooden subfloor, and the nails are hidden in the ‘tongue’ of the board, which fits into the groove of the neighboring board.
Pros:
- Can be used with both solid and engineered hardwood
- Engineered hardwood offers a variety of thicknesses, colors, finishes, and wood species
Cons:
- Nails may loosen over time, causing squeaky floors
- Extra tools required (like a nail gun, jamb saw, and router)
- Requires a wooden subfloor (may need to add one if not already in place)
Type Three: Click-Lock (Floating)
Click-lock is used only with engineered wood flooring. This design utilizes the tongues and grooves of the boards, so no adhesive is needed.
Pros:
- Most affordable
- Quickest method
- Easy plank replacement without damaging nearby boards
- No glue hassle
- Repairs are easier because damaged planks can be removed without harm
Cons:
- Requires more transition moldings
- Needs high-quality sound-deadening underlayment
Advanced Flooring’s Top 10 Installation Tips for the DIYer
Once you’ve decided on an installation method, the project can commence! For those who prefer to renovate their floors themselves, keep these 10 tips in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly:
- Begin installation with the straightest and longest wall.
- Ensure you have enough material by acquiring 5-10% more flooring than needed (opt for 10% if the space is diagonal).
- Install the boards perpendicular to the floor joist for stability.
- Solid hardwood can only be installed on or above grade (ground or upper floors). Engineered hardwood can be installed on any floor.
- Allow your hardwood to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the installation area before starting.
- Certain installation methods may be tricky for beginners—consider professional help if needed.
- Make sure to research specific installation requirements for your chosen hardwood product.
- Remove furniture to avoid extra charges and ensure a smooth process.
- Check subfloor condition: If uneven, sand it down.
- Mix planks from different boxes before starting installation to avoid obvious light and dark spots—this method is called "racking the boards."
Preparing the Room
Prior to installation, take these general preparation steps to ensure the job is done right:
- Remove furniture (whether DIY or professional) to avoid extra fees.
- Remove doors—the bottom may need to be shaved to accommodate your new floor.
- Take out baseboards gently if you plan to keep them.
- Check your subfloor: Make sure it’s level and smooth.
- Mark floor joist locations on the walls.
- Install moisture inhibitor or underlayment (even for waterproof floors) to protect from vapor coming from the foundation.
- Mark your starting line for the first row of hardwood to ensure straight installation.
- Lay out boards from different boxes beforehand to ensure the color variation is well-blended.
Now, You’re Ready to Go!
With the right preparation and installation method, your new hardwood flooring will bring warmth, style, and value to your home for decades to come. Whether you choose to DIY or trust the experts at Advanced Flooring, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about hardwood installation and get started on your project!