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If your house is under construction or renovation, then choosing the right hardwood floor for your home is important. Although you may have a range of flooring options, hardwood flooring is one to consider. Hardwood floors are elegant and charming and have many positive qualities that increase with age. They also attract fewer allergens and dust particles and are also non-electromagnetic. Since hardwood floors are organic, they are less prone to damage and safer for children. These are just some of the many reasons why hardwood flooring is considered one of the safest flooring options for your home. Here are some important parameters to consider when choosing and installing hardwood floors in your home.
Select Engineered or Solid Flooring
For apartments and basements with concrete subfloors, it is better to use engineered flooring since it is easier to install. On the other hand, solid wood works better with layers of plywood installation, helping raise the floor height.
Choose Site Finish or Prefinished Wood
With prefinished wood, you know exactly what are you getting. There is little room for customization. On-site finishing gives the customer room for customization, making it appealing to many designers and homeowners.
Consider the Types of Wood
Oak is the king of hardwood flooring. Walnut is another common option. Other available North American hardwoods on the market are hickory, maple, cherry, and ash.
Other parameters to consider include:
- Plank Width
- Grain Pattern
- Furnish Type
Wooden Flooring Installation Method
If you are installing wood flooring, then you will need to have the subfloor ready in order to place the wooden floor. Of course, there are other options available. You should always consult with a professional before beginning the installation process.
Let the Wood Acclimatize
Before installing solid wood flooring, you must let the wood acclimate and reach the house temperature level. Leave the wood in an environment where you are going to install it for a minimum of 3 days.
Gather the Necessary Tools
To install hardwood floors, you will need various tools and materials for this job. If you do not own any tools, then you have the option of renting certain tools from a nearby hardware store.
Installation Process
Lay the first board down with the edge with the tongue pointing towards the corner of the room. You must leave a little space with the wall to expand (check the manufacturer’s recommendations) and should be aligned. Place the spacers in the opening. To install the first row of guide boards from the line, you just drew, drill the board with small holes and use the nail gun to install each board respecting the length that limits its division. After this, you need to follow the below-mentioned guidelines:
Nail the boards to the subfloor
Join the boards
Don’t forget to cut the boards to size
Nail the rows with the nail gun
Hammer in the last rows
Lay the end boards using a pry bar
And enjoy an amazing floor
