5 Key Points to Install Hardwood Flooring in Your Home
Are you planning to install hardwood flooring in your house? If yes, then consider certain things before going for this popular choice for homes. Hardwood floors not only add value but aesthetic appeal to the rooms in your home. Hardwood installation is not an easy task, and it is better to get the expert’s help.
If you want to make hardwood flooring a DIY project, then you need to know the four basic installation types, such as nailing, gluing, stapling, and floating. Before starting the project, you must let the hardwood stay in your house for at least a few weeks. For a successful installation, the hardwood must get acclimatize.
You can use an inexpensive moisture meter to verify the moisture in the hardwoods. The current post will let you know the points following which you can install the hardwood floor on your own.
Using Right Installation Method
Picking the right installation method is a key behind successful hardwood floor installation. However, the method depends on different parameters, which include the subfloor, budget, and the type of flooring. For instance, solid hardwood floors are nailed down into the ground, while the glue or floating method is perfect for the engineered woods.
Several people pick the nailing method because of its permanency. On the other hand, floating style is preferred for cement and tiles subfloors.
Read the instructions
As you are trying it as a DIY project, so you must read the instructions for the floors carefully. Each specific product comes with a set of instructions. The instruction includes information about the supplies required, what to expect after completion of each step. You must read each of the words carefully.
Further, on the internet, you can find several videos with the title of how to install hardwood floors. You can check those videos also.
Prepare for the Installation
As per the requirements, get all the products you need. It may include glue, nails, and other miscellaneous tools. The next step is to remove all the furniture from the room and prepare the subfloor, which must be clean and dry.
According to several hardwood floor installers, preparing the subfloor often takes more time than installing the hardwood floors. However, it largely depends on which type of hardwood floor you are working.
Place the Moisture Barrier
It is optional, but most of the hardwood floor installers recommend using a moisture barrier. Often papers are used to prevent the hardwood from sliding around. You can ask your local supplier regarding it as he can suggest you the best based on your local climate.
Different Installation Methods
Now, as you are ready for the installation, you must know all the four types of installation methods in detail. Based on the choice of floor types such as solid hardwood floor or engineered hardwood, you need to pick the installation process.
Nailing
People widely use nailing for installing solid hardwood floors. Besides, the nail down process is quick and cost-effective compared to others. You must align the boards along the layout line. The tongue must face the room. Put the first board in the row and keep space between two boards.
While nailing the boards, you need to nail the first and last board through board face. Nail the middle boards through the tongue.
Gluing
One of the best choices, if you are placing the hardwood on the concrete floors. Further, it does not need any vapor barrier, which reduces the budget. You must spread the glue with the help of the trowel. Holding a trowel at 45 degree, spread the glue. Once done, place the first row, and continue the process.
You may need to use spacers to create the expansion gap between the boards. With the help of the rubber mallet, ensure the boards to get flushed against each other.
Related Article: How To Install Hardwood Flooring On Stairs?
Stapling
People use stapling for engineered flooring. While placing the first row, use the pre-drill holes. Use the hammer to insert a nail and fix the board. At the time of the second board onwards, use the staple gun. However, while using the staple gun, ensure that it must not block the tongue and groove.
However, in the last row, it is not possible to use the staple gun. You must apply the nail and hammer it like the first board. If you find any hole, fill it up with wood filler.
Floating
The best option for the people loves to try DIY projects. However, it is best for the engineered hardwoods. You only need to use the nails through the pilot holes and hammers it up without hurting the board. Fix the lower drop-lock end with the upper drop-lock end of the first and second planks consecutively. Place the remaining board planks in the row, and continue the same for remaining rows.
Final Words
The process mentioned above here is a brief description of installing the hardwood floors. If you are not sure about the process, it is better to hire a professional.
Being in this field for more than 25 years, we can help you with all types of hardwood floor installations.