Installation
Now that you’ve finally chosen the perfect hardwood floor the even bigger question remains, who can I trust to install it in my home? With over 40 years of installation experience and continuing education in the field, we take pride in our knowledge of the installation process. Hardwood floors are a living entity within the home and it is important that proper steps be taken when installing to ensure a long lifetime. We approach each installation with a series of calculated measurements and guidelines creating the optimum environment for your new hardwood floor.
Acclimation of materials
The most crucial step in any hardwood flooring installation, proper acclimation of materials ensures they are stable within the environment. Improper acclimation may compromise the overall integrity of the installation.
- Know the acceptable moisture range for your geological region
- Investigate/address potential moisture concerns surrounding the home (landscaping, drainage)
- Take moisture readings of both the subfloor and new floor materials to ensure they are within an acceptable range.
- Allow an acceptable amount of time for the materials to sit in their new environment to balance all moisture and relative humidity levels.
- If installed on raised foundation, check crawlspace for proper ventilation and/or determine need for moisture barrier (6mm polyethylene film)
- For installations on concrete slab moisture levels must be determined and appropriate steps towards moisture mitigation taken in the form of a roll-on liquid sealant (Wakol PU-280)
Subfloor Preparation
Determining the condition of the subfloor prior to installation is a crucial step in the installation of your new hardwood floor. Whether it’s being installed directly onto the concrete slab or fastened to a wooden substrate (plywood), measured steps must be taken for the best results.
Installation Methods
There are many ways to properly install a hardwood floor. Understanding the construction of the subfloor determines the best method for installing your new hardwood floor.