HARDWOOD
INSTALLATION

Since new hardwood floors cannot be installed over existing floors, you must first remove all furniture, furnishings, electronics, and wall hangings from the room and closets. The old flooring must be removed entirely and disposed of properly. Now, your subfloor must be assessed, and any imperfections need to be repaired before installation can begin. Once your subfloor is completely level and ready, it’s time to bring in the wood planks to acclimate to the humidity levels in the home. Hardwood flooring should acclimate for at least 3 days in advance of installation.

When the hardwood installation day is here, make plans to stay home in order to answer questions for your installers and help troubleshoot any issues that may come up. Designate a specific area of the home for installers to keep their equipment and cut planks as needed. Keep kids and pets away from the rooms receiving new hardwood, as well as the installers area where potentially dangerous tools like saws and nails will be used. Depending on the size of the area receiving new hardwood, installation can typically take between one to three days.

Once your new hardwood installation is complete, now is the time to ask your installers any questions you may have. If a finish has been applied, wait for 24 hours until the floor is completely dry before entering the room. Make sure your doors still have full range of motion with the new flooring and if needed, shave them down so they can swing freely. Return furniture into the room carefully by lifting or with proper equipment, never dragging pieces across the floor. Begin proper hardwood care and maintenance following the manufacturer’s guidelines and start enjoying your new floors!