What is involved with installing wood flooring?

by | Oct 29, 2014 | Wood Products

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With hardwood floors lasting 100 years or more it is no wonder that many people have hardwood floors installed in their homes. Wood flooring installation in New York City is a time consuming task that requires the skills of an excellent carpenter who is very meticulous in what he does. Once installed, hardwood floors make a stunning addition to the home, not only that, they are durable and will last for years. When you begin considering hardwood floors in your home it is important that everything that is involved is understood and taken into account.

The first thing that must be done to ensure long term satisfaction is a thorough investigation of the area where the floors will be installed. Regardless of whether it is a home under construction or a home that is being renovated the floor must be sound, level and free from any squeaks that often part of a sub-floor. As well as a surface which is structurally sound the area must be maintained at an average temperature so proper heating and air conditioning in the area is necessary. If the temperature and humidity are not right there is a chance that the floor will expand and contract, something that should be avoided.

If the wood flooring installation in New York City is going to take place on a concrete slab then the surface must be sealed, this will stop any moisture from the sub-floor reaching the wooden slats. Although it is not necessary to remove the baseboards when the floor is being laid in an existing home, removing and replacing it will certainly add to the beauty of the finished installation.

To ensure that the floor has a common appearance it is important that wood from the same bundle be mixed with wood from other bundles. There is always the possibility that there will be differences in color and grain so mixing the boards will ensure a more natural look.

The most important step in wood flooring installation in New York City is the first row, called the baseline. If a mistake is made at this point, the mistake will carry through the entire room. As an outside wall is usually straight and true the baseline should start there rather than at an inner wall.

As the hardwood slats are being installed the joints should be staggered in such a way that no two seams touch. All gaps between the end of the slat and the walls must be maintained per manufacturer’s instructions and all cuts must be square and neat.

If you are tired of your old floor and you decide to replace it you are invited to talk to the experts at New York Wood Flooring about wood flooring installation in New York City.