Wood floors may seem like they’re impossible to install, but they really aren’t. All that you need are the directions and the right tools. As long as you remember to measure twice and cut once (and not the other way around), you’ll be in good shape. However, if things go awry, you could always do a search for flooring installers near me in order to find professionals who can help. Before you dig into that box of wooden planks and start laying them out on your subfloor, read over these tips from Wraps Studio.
Make Sure That the Surface Is Level
While a gentle slope isn’t usually an issue, an uneven subfloor will lead to a generally uneven floor that is prone to cracking, shaking, flexing, and other problems. The best solution is a level subfloor. Take the time to even it out and make any necessary repairs before begin laying out your new wood floor.
Cut the Right Pieces First
In order to start things off on the right foot, you need to make several initial cuts. These include the flooring parts that will be located the ends of rows, closest to the walls. You’ll also have to cut some smaller pieces around the door frames. Do this with a very sharp saw blade in order to keep the boards from chipping and splintering.
Create A Template
If you have pieces that need to be cut in a complex manner (that is, more than straight across), then create a template. For example, the areas around the door frame tend to be unusually shaped, due to the need to meet the rest of the flooring and make room for the baseboards. Take the time to make a template and then trace that shape onto the board before you begin to cut it, otherwise, you may find yourself needing some replacement wood or calling flooring installers near.’
Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash
Don’t Forget About the Expansion Spaces
You’ll need to leave some room for your floorboards to expand when the weather warms up. This space is usually hidden along the walls by the baseboards. There are also expansion boards that need to be placed in each doorway. If you don’t leave this space, then the boards will push up against each other when they expand. They’ll begin to crack and shift, and you’ll end up with uneven and damaged sections of flooring.
Take All the Time That You Need
According to the experts at Wraps Studio, if you rush the installation process, then you’ll end up making a mess. You might have boards that were cut and installed wrong, and a floor that’s uneven or worse. It will be a waste of time and money, since the floor will need to be reinstalled, most likely with new boards. If you don’t have the time to install your wood floor properly, don’t be afraid to call in the experts. They know what they’re doing and will able to complete your floor within a specific time frame.
Feature photo by Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash
