How to Install Hardwood Floors: A Step-By-Step Guide

Have you been thinking about upgrading and installing hardwood flooring but aren't sure how to go about it? If so, this guide is for you. Let us help you walk through the entire process of installing hardwood floors, from selecting the right flooring to getting it installed. We'll also provide tips and advice on how to get the most out of your new engineered hardwood flooring and help you avoid any common mistakes. 

What are hardwood floors?

Hardwood flooring is a type of flooring made from solid wood that has been carefully crafted to look and feel like real wood. The term "hardwood" refers to the timber's natural properties, which means that different hardwoods may have different colors, wood grain, and textures. 

Hardwoods are typically expensive but offer a high level of durability and style. Some popular types of hardwood floors include oak, maple, birch, walnut, cherry, pine, and lauan.

Why choose hardwood floors?

Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for a variety of reasons. 

• First, hardwood floors are long-lasting. They can withstand heavy traffic and wear-tear well over time, making them a good option for homes with big families or pets.  

• Second, engineered hardwood floors look beautiful and provide an Authentic Wood Floor Experience (AWF) – meaning that they feel like real wood even when you touch them. 

• Finally, hardwoods are relatively easy to maintain – just keep them clean with a sweeping broom and vacuum cleaner on regular basis.

How do I choose the right kind of hardwood flooring for my home?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the right kind of engineered hardwood flooring for your home. It is important first to decide what type of flooring you want – wood flooring or laminate flooring. 

Laminate floors look and feel like wood but are made from engineered hardwood flooring materials like thin sheets of unexpanded plastic bonded together with an adhesive. They're a popular choice among homeowners because they're affordable, easy to install hardwood flooring and have a good level of durability. However, laminate floors can start to show signs of wear and tear over time. They're also not as noise-dissipating as solid hardwood flooring, so they may not be the best choice if you have a high level of allergies or noisy pets.

Solid wood flooring are made from one piece of next board that is cut to size and then sealed with an oil finish. This type of flooring is popular among homeowners because it's beautiful and versatile – you can choose from many different types of the finished floor to match your déncor. However, solid hardwood flooring can be more expensive than laminate or vinyl alternatives, and they may require some additional maintenance (like periodic stain and sealant applications) and by following the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep them looking and performing their best. If you're not sure which type of flooring is right for your home, consult with Black Forest Hardwood Floors. They can help you choose the perfect flooring option like the floating floor for your needs and preferences and also integrate customized design elements with wood putty.

How much does it cost to install hardwood floors?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of installing hardwood engineered flooring will vary depending on the specific flooring you choose and your location. However, a general rule of thumb suggests that engineered wood flooring can cost between $1,000 and $4,000 approximately per room. Also, the cost depends on factors like the size and quality of your hardwood flooring, issues like moisture problems and managing room’s humidity,  the type of adding stairs that are required, and the number of subfloors needed for installation and any additional services.

How to install hardwood floors on concrete?

Flooring can be installed on concrete; you'll need to first remove the old flooring and underlying concrete substrate. You can do this by hand or with a power saw, depending on the size and complexity of your project. Once the old flooring is removed, you can pour new footings for your hardwood subfloor using a cement-based adhesive. Next, install your new hardwood subfloor over the poured footings using a wood joiner tool or thermal adhesive. Finally, finish off your floor installation by applying an appropriate finish (like finished maple or white oak or red oak) and decorating as desired.

How long does it take to install hardwood floors?

This depends on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of your project. However, a general rule of thumb suggests that installing hardwood floors can typically take between 1 to 4 days approximately per room. In addition, you'll likely need to wait several weeks for the flooring to fully cure before using it. But factors like the type of adhesive you use, the weather conditions in your area, and the skill level of your contractor can all affect how long it takes for your flooring to finish curing. So, if you're considering hardwood flooring installation for your home, be sure to schedule a consultation with a qualified professional to get an accurate estimate of how much the project will cost and exactly how long it'll take.

The Bottom Line

It is a beautiful thing to walk on the hardwood floor. They are elegant and give your home an exclusive feel. However, if you are not willing to spend a lot of money installing them, then DIY is the best option. You can also hire professional flooring installers to do it for you at home or office, depending on the size of your space. The only way that would make things easier is with the right guidance and advice from experts who have done it before. 

FAQs

Where do you start when installing hardwood floors?

Start by measuring the length and width of your room. Then, determine how many square feet of flooring you will need. After that, follow specific instructions on how to lay the floors. To lay the floors, you will need a level and tape measure.

Start by marking the corners of your room with corner marks. Use the level to make sure each corner is at equal height. Next, mark off each foot on the floor with lines extending out from your marks. Finally, use the tape measure to line up these lines across the flooring and cut them with a knife or scissors. Next, use a flooring cleaner and cloth to gently clean the floors.

How hard is it to install hardwood floors yourself?

There is no universal answer to this question since it depends on the type of hardwood floors that you are installing and your level of experience.Some people find it relatively easy to install hardwood floors themselves, while others may require some assistance.