Installing new hardwood floors is easier than ever thanks to some of the new products now available, and often no longer requires the assistance of a professional carpenter. Pre-finished flooring is now available, saving the homeowner the work of sanding and finishing the floor, because all of this work is done beforehand in the factory.
A touch of old-style elegance can be added to your home with hardwood floors, and several wood varieties other than the typical red oak can be found in a wide range of textures and colors. Searching the Internet or browsing in your favorite hardware shop to research materials needed to install hardwood floors is an excellent idea.
Pre-finished flooring can be bought online or from a merchant you trust. After you get the wood home, you should stack the wood in the room it will be installed in for a few days to let it adjust to the normal humidity level. This is important to do because moisture makes wood expand. Leave a half inch between the floor and the wall when installing your flooring. This space could be covered with a baseboard or molding strip later.
When installing your hardwood floors, there will be step by step instructions from the supplier. If you follow these details, you will get a professional look on your new floor. The wood panels come micro-beveled from the manufacturer to allow for expansion in the summer heat.
If the flooring in your home is starting to show its age, refinishing it may be an option to look into. Prior to beginning work on the floor, clear the room of everything, even the down to the drapes! To prevent dust from entering the room during the process and marring the finish on the floor, keep the room sealed off. The refinished floor should be ready for use again in about three days, but just to be sure, it’s a good idea to wait an additional day before moving everything back into the room.
Laminate floors are very easy to install and are very low maintenance. They resist the scratches and stains commonly caused by heavy traffic and the wear and tear from kids and pets. Laminate floors are also manufactured with a tongue and groove interlocking system to make installation quick and easy.
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing your flooring, but rest assured that manufacturers have come a long way in making their flooring options easier to install. Make sure the instructions that come with your flooring material are clear and make sense, and don’t be afraid to ask questions before you buy.