Hardwood Flooring Installation: 4 Essential Tips for a Flawless Finish
1. Examine Your Subfloor
The condition of your subfloor is critical to the success of your hardwood flooring installation. A level subfloor ensures the wood planks lay flat and secure. Ensure any height variations are less than 3/16 inches over a 6-foot span. There are several methods to level a subfloor, such as using a self-leveling compound or sanding down high spots.
2. Acclimate the Wood
Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in humidity. This movement, known as wood acclimation, is crucial to consider before installation. Acclimate your hardwood planks by spreading them out in the installation area for about a week. Ensure the room’s temperature and humidity are at normal living conditions. Avoid storing wood in damp areas like unfinished basements.
3. Ensure the First Row is Straight
The alignment of your first row of hardwood planks is critical, as all subsequent rows will be laid in reference to it. A crooked first row will result in significant curves as you progress. Exterior walls are often not square, so consider marking a line parallel to an interior wall opposite your starting point. Mark the location of your joists and install the planks perpendicular to them, securing each plank into a joist whenever possible. Be mindful of obstacles like fireplace hearths and plan your starting point to facilitate the installation process.
4. Nail and Glue the Boards
In certain situations, such as when laying the last board, a flooring nailer may not fit. In these cases, you’ll need to top-nail or face-nail the boards. Apply a bead of wood glue to the groove of the previous board, use scrap wood and a pry bar to securely fit the boards in place, and ensure the finish nailer is properly secured to avoid damaging the board surface.
By following these four tips, you can achieve a professional and lasting hardwood floor installation.
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