Installing hardwood floors can significantly enhance the look and value of your home, providing both elegance and durability. However, achieving a flawless installation requires careful preparation. Before you start your hardwood floor installation journey, ensuring that your home is adequately prepared is crucial for a smooth and successful process.
Rewcon, a leading name in flooring solutions, is here to guide you through each step of preparation, ensuring that your new floors are installed to perfection. In this blog, we will walk you through the necessary steps to prepare your home for installation, allowing you to avoid frequent mistakes and ensuring a smooth experience.
Preparing Your Home for Installation
Proper preparation is key to an effective hardwood floor installation. Follow these steps to ensure your home is ready for installation.
Clearing the Space
- Removing Furniture: This includes large items like sofas and tables and smaller items such as lamps and decorative pieces. Consider hiring professional movers to avoid injury or damage if you have heavy furniture.
- Handling Electronics and Appliances: Disconnect and move any electronics and appliances. This includes televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. Ensure these items are safely stored in another room or covered to protect them from dust and debris.
Assessing and Repairing Subfloors
- Checking for Moisture: One of the most critical aspects of preparing for hardwood floor installation is ensuring that the subfloor is dry. Mold growth and warping are two issues that can arise from moisture. Before starting the installation, use a moisture meter to check the levels in your subfloor and take care of any problems.
- Fixing Uneven Surfaces: An even subfloor is essential for a successful hardwood installation. Inspect the subfloor for any imperfections, such as squeaks, gaps, or uneven areas. Do any necessary surface repairs or levels to guarantee a level and sturdy foundation for your new flooring.
Acclimating the Hardwood
- Why Acclimation is Necessary: Hardwood floors expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Acclimating the wood to the environment of your home helps minimize these changes and reduces the risk of gaps or buckling once the flooring is installed.
- How to Acclimate Hardwood Properly: After removing the hardwood planks from their package, arrange them in the designated installation space. Allow them to acclimate for at least 48 hours before installation. Ensure that the room’s temperature and humidity levels are consistent with the conditions expected once the floors are installed.
Protecting Your Home During Installation
During installation, it’s essential to protect your home from potential damage and ensure a safe environment for everyone.
Covering Vents and Air Ducts
Cover duct openings and air vents to keep dust and debris out of your HVAC system. For temporary sealing, use duct tape or plastic sheeting. This precaution will help keep your home clean and avoid additional cleanup after the installation.
Protecting Walls and Baseboards
Install protective coverings, such as painter’s tape or plastic sheeting, on walls and baseboards to shield them from accidental damage. This is particularly important if the installation involves cutting or fitting pieces near these surfaces.
Ensuring Safety for Pets and Children
During the hardwood floor installation, keep pets and children away from the work area to prevent accidents. Inform your contractor of any special considerations regarding safety and ensure that the workspace is properly secured.
Final Preparations Before Installation Day
There are a few last things to do to ensure everything goes according to plan on the installation day.
- Confirming the Installation Schedule: Verify the installation date and time with your contractor to ensure no misunderstandings. Confirm that all necessary materials and equipment are ready for the job.
- Reviewing Installation Details with the Contractor: Discuss any final details or concerns with your contractor. Review the installation plan, including the layout and any special instructions, to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Preparing for Potential Issues: Be prepared for any unforeseen issues during installation. Have a plan for dealing with any problems and ensure your contractor knows your expectations.
Post-Installation Tips
Follow these tips once your hardwood floors are installed to maintain their beauty and functionality.
Maintaining Your New Hardwood Floors
- Regular Cleaning: For frequent dust and debris removal, vacuum or sweep. When cleaning hardwood floors on occasion, use a microfiber mop or soft cloth and the hardwood floor cleaner of your choice.
- Protecting from Damage: Use felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratches and avoid walking on the floors with high heels or cleats.
Inspecting the Finished Work
Examine the installed flooring for any issues or inconsistencies. Check for gaps, uneven areas, or other defects. Address any concerns with your contractor promptly.
Settling Back into Your Space
Once the installation is complete and the floors are fully acclimated, you can move your furniture and belongings back into the room. Take time to adjust to your new flooring and enjoy the enhanced look and feel it brings to your home.
Wrapping Up
Preparing your home for hardwood floor installation is critical to ensure a successful and stress-free project. Following these tips will help you avoid frequent problems and guarantee that your new floors are fitted to the highest standard.
Rewcon provides experienced hardwood floor installation services with professionalism and attention. Contact us today to find out how we can help with your flooring needs and transform your house with gorgeous, long-lasting hardwood floors.
