Before Hardwood Installation
Installing your new hardwood will go as smooth as possible by completing thoughtful steps ahead of time! Remove all furniture and furnishings from your floors and walls, as well as from the closets. It’s also wise to remove all doors where your new hardwood may raise the flooring height and prevent full range of motion. Your subfloor will need to be completely bare and level before the wood floors go down, so take time to remove the old flooring. Wood must also be installed above grade and not over concrete, so subfloor prep may be needed. Set the temperature of the area to 68 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 48 hours before installation and let the new hardwood planks acclimate for at least 48 to 72 hours in advance.
During Hardwood Installation
When the day comes for your new hardwood floors, plan to be home so that you can answer questions for your installation crew. Keep all children and pets away from the rooms receiving new hardwood! Designate an area for your crew to keep all the tools and saws they will be using during the process, as well as to cut planks as needed. Make sure to create proper lighting if needed and provide easy access to electrical outlets for your installers to use. If you haven’t read through your new hardwood warranty, make sure to do so and have a good understanding to prevent voiding it. Now is the time to ask your installers any questions you may have regarding your new hardwood floors!
After Hardwood Installation
Once your hardwood floors are down, wait at least 24 hours before foot traffic to allow any adhesive to dry. Make sure to use felt floor protectors under heavy furniture, use carpet cushion under rugs, and use mats with appropriate backing under pet food and water bowls. Sweep and vacuum regularly to remove all sawdust and abrasive particles. Remember that hardwood is a natural product that experiences expansion and contraction during seasonal change. You may need to shave down the bottom of your doors before reinstalling them to ensure full range of motion.
