Hardwood Flooring Installation

Whether you choose traditional hardwood flooring that requires to be finished upon installation or a type of hardwood flooring that is pre-finished, the initial installation process is quite similar. However, if you are dedicated to begin the hardwood flooring installation process, consider these steps.

The first step in the hardwood flooring installation process is to measure the room. Once you have the proper dimensions of the room, you should find a focal point. The focal point is one point in the room on which the first board of hardwood flooring is to be installed. Consider using a fireplace, window, door, opening, or some other feature in your room as your focal point. If you are planning on laying any decorative items in your hardwood flooring, now is the time to do so. Once you have found the focal point, snap a chalk line that you can use as your reference point. This chalk line will help you a great deal in the hardwood flooring installation so that you can ensure that your flooring will be straight.

The second step in the hardwood flooring installation process is to begin laying the floor. The very first board should be completely flush with the chalk line that you previously snapped and all of the other boards should fit snugly into the first board that is laid. Once the boards have been laid, they should be nailed into the sub floor to prevent any movement. Some types of hardwood flooring require them to be glued into the other boards, so be sure to read any instructions that come with your flooring before you begin.

The third step in the hardwood flooring installation is to lay the boards in a staggered fashion. Much like you would lay bricks so that the seams do not line up, hardwood flooring should be laid in the same manner. Continue to fit each board into the previous one using their tongue and groove cuts. This method of cutting the hardwood ensures that the boards stay snugly fastened with all the fasteners hidden from view. When it comes to cutting the boards to fit into a specific space, be sure to measure properly before you begin cutting. This is perhaps the most difficult part of the entire hardwood flooring installation process, but it is not impossible.

Once you have completed your hardwood flooring installation, you can begin to enjoy your flooring. You will need to install a thin strip of molding known as shoe molding in the crack between the flooring and your baseboard. This will prevent the raw ends of the floor boards from showing so that the entire room has a professional look. In the end, you will be proud of your hardwood flooring installation task.