Hardwood floors can be an excellent addition to a home. Not only are they hardwearing and beautiful, but they also add an air of luxury.
However, installing wood floors requires some effort and expertise. Before you get started on this task, here are a few essential points to keep in mind:
Before installation, take accurate measurements. Doing so will guarantee the floor is installed in its intended order.
Underlayment
Underlayment is essential when installing hardwood floors, as it protects them from minor subfloor imperfections that could cause them to buckle over time. Furthermore, underlayment shields the feet from moisture damage and adds sound-reduction padding.
When selecting an underlayment for your flooring installation, the type of material should consider the species of wood used and any need for extra support, stability, or insulation.
You may require cork underlayment for extra support and durability when installing softwood species such as black walnut, white oak, or red oak. This material helps the wood stay more robust by providing different nutrients and minerals.
Planks
Selecting the ideal planks is a crucial element when installing hardwood floors. They can make or break the overall aesthetic of your foot.
Long, wide planks are an excellent choice for a rustic or natural aesthetic. They are dent-resistant, and their surface makes scratches and foot-triggered defects appear natural.
They also make it easier to cover dents and nails effectively, which may be difficult with shorter planks.
Furthermore, long wide planks come in various grain patterns depending on your selected wood species. Rift-sawn wood is ideal for creating an eye-catching design on your floor, while quarter-sawn lumber may work just as well.
Long wide planks are increasingly popular due to their aesthetic appeal and durability and the fact that they take up less space than other flooring options. This saves you money on not only installation costs but also time.
Joints
When installing hardwood floors, keeping the joints between planks adequately spaced is essential. Doing this guarantees your floor’s stability and lasts for years.
For a reliable, high-performing hardwood floor, begin with end joints staggered at least 6 inches apart. Doing this will prevent weak or buckling joints that could negatively affect the performance of your foot.
Staggered joints are ideal for creating a uniform aesthetic in your wood flooring. Furthermore, they enable you to distribute different-colored planks throughout the space evenly.
Adhesives
Adhesives are commonly used to secure hardwood floors. They may also act as moisture barriers or sound reduction elements.
When installing hardwood floors, it is essential to select the adhesive carefully. Selecting an incompatible type can make the task more challenging or result in a subpar installation.
When selecting a glue for wood projects, the type of wood used should be considered. Solid wood requires more flexibility, while engineered wood requires a stronger bond to prevent cracking.
Finish
Hardwood floors require a finish to shield them against scratches, dents, and color shifts. Not only this, but it helps preserve the natural beauty of the wood itself.
When selecting a finish for your floor, you have two choices: stained or clear. Staining can add some visual interest, while the clear coat brings out your wood floor’s natural grain and pattern.
Refinishing or not, it is essential to thoroughly clean the floor before applying a finishing agent. Doing so makes the process go more smoothly and prevents dust from contaminating the final coating.
Refinishing hardwood floors can make a home more desirable to potential home buyers and increase its value. Refinishing is an investment that pays for itself over time, making the extra work worthwhile.
