A Basic Guide To DIY Hardwood Flooring Installation By SureReno
Hardwood flooring installation is a rewarding DIY project that can add beauty and value to your home.
To ensure a smooth hardwood flooring installation, we recommend gathering all your tools, materials, and measurements ahead of time to ensure your hardwood flooring installation is smooth from start to finish. Now is also a great time to check out our Top Tips For Selecting Hardwood Flooring by SureReno.
Here is a comprehensive list of the materials you’ll need for your project:
Table of Contents
Suggested Materials:
Hardwood Flooring
Purchase enough hardwood flooring to cover your space, plus some extra for cuts and replacements. The quantity will depend on the square footage of the area. It is not uncommon to find a couple defective planks in a box of hardwood and even pros make miscuts, so purchasing a little extra is highly recommended.
Moisture Barrier/Underlayment
Depending on your subfloor, you may need a moisture barrier or underlayment. Some underlayment can double as a moisture barrier. It is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions and product information before purchasing.
Underlayment helps to protect the hardwood, provide cushioning for more comfort, and even helps with sound insulation. Some engineered hardwood products come with underlayment already attached to the underside of the planks.
Nails/Staples and Floor Screws
You will need nails or staples (depending on the method of hardwood flooring installation) to secure the hardwood planks to the subfloor. For additional securement or if you are installing the flooring over a concrete subfloor, adhesive may be required as well as or in place of nails/screws.
Moisture Meter
We recommend checking the moisture levels of both the subfloor and hardwood before installation. This helps prevent future problems.
If you need help finding a good Moisture Meter check this article for the latest reviews on the best products available.
Saw
A table saw, circular saw (skill saw) or mitre saw for making precise cuts on the hardwood planks. Ideally, having access to all three saws is best as they are all useful in different situations.
Hammer and Punch or Flooring Nailer
A flooring nailer is commonly used for securing the hardwood planks to the subfloor. In addition, a hammer in combination with a punch can be used as an alternative. We strongly recommend the flooring nailer unless you are looking for a workout.
Rubber Mallet
For gently tapping hardwood planks into place without damaging them.
Carpenter’s Square and Chalk Line
To ensure straight and square cuts and alignment.
Screwdriver or Drill
For any necessary pre-drilling, especially for screws in tight areas where you can’t use a flooring nailer.
Safety Gear
This includes safety glasses, ear protection, gloves, a high-quality dust mask, and knee pads to help prevent fatigue.
Level
To ensure the subfloor is even and flat.
Tape Measure
For accurate measurements during hardwood flooring installation.
Spacers
These maintain the expansion gap between the flooring and the wall, typically 1/4 inch or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Wood Filler and Trowel
To fill gaps, cracks, or small holes in the flooring, ensuring a smooth finish. Use the trowel or a putty knife to apply adhesive and spread wood filler.
Transition Strips
Used at doorways and between different types of flooring to create a seamless transition.
Broom & Dustpan/Vacuum Cleaner and Cleaning Rags
To keep the work area clean. Remove dust and debris as well as wipe up excess glue or filler.
Get exactly what you need
Installation Steps
Prepare the Subfloor
Ensure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Repair any squeaky or uneven areas by adding floor screws along seams and over joists.
If the seams of the sub-floor are still not level, even after adding screws, use a belt sander to make level. Additionally, this is a great time to check out our guide for How To Level An Uneven Subfloor In 10 Easy Steps.
We also recommend that before beginning your hardwood floor installation ensure to check the moisture levels of your subfloor by using a Moisture Meter
Acclimate the Hardwood
Secondly, allow the hardwood flooring to acclimate to the room’s humidity and temperature for at least 48 hours before installation. Stack the planks in the room where they’ll be installed, leaving air space between them.
For more information on the impact of not properly acclimating your flooring check this article from our friends from Moisture Meter Experts.
Layout Planning
Plan the layout of your flooring, considering factors like the direction of the planks and the starting point. Finally, double check measurements with a tape measure.
After that, use a chalk line to mark your starting line, typically along the longest, straightest wall (hot tip: never assume a wall is straight). Leave an expansion gap (usually 1/2 inch) along the walls for natural expansion and contraction.
Install Underlayment (If Needed)
Some hardwood flooring installations may require an underlayment for added cushioning or soundproofing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for underlayment installation.
We also recommend reading our guide on How To Choose Underlayment For Hardwood Floors.
Start Hardwood Flooring Installation
Begin in the corner of the room and lay the first row of planks, ensuring they are snugly fit together. The floor nailer may not work on the first row or two due to the proximity to the wall. These boards should be pre-drilled and fastened using finishing nails.
When laying your first row remember to leave an expansion gap between the wall and the planks but do not trust that the wall is straight. Instead, measure out and mark the equivalent of one board width plus 1⁄2” at each end of the room.
Next, use the chalk line to create a straight line between your two marks. Ensure your first row follows the chalk line as you fasten the boards down. Once you are far enough from the wall, use the pneumatic flooring nailer to fire angel nails or cleats through the tongue of each plank at regular intervals, typically every 6-8 inches.
You will need to again use finishing nails for the last few rows.
Continue the Installation
Continue adding rows of hardwood planks in the same way, ensuring they are staggered to create a visually appealing pattern.
To achieve a proper stagger of planks make sure you always leave at least 6 inches between joints.
Use the circular saw or mitre saw to cut planks as needed to fit the last row. Remember to leave an expansion gap here as well using a spacer.
Complete Hardwood Flooring Installation
Once you reach the final row, you may need to cut the planks to fit the space.
Use a pry bar and tapping block to ensure a snug fit. Install any transition strips or trim around the room’s perimeter.
Finally, be sure to remove the spacers and fill the expansion gap with baseboard or quarter-round molding.
Finishing Touches
Lastly, install any additional molding or trim as needed.
Clean the floor to remove any debris or adhesive residue.
Apply the appropriate finish or sealant to protect and enhance the hardwood’s appearance.
Maintenance
As always, we recommend carefully reviewing the instructions from the manufacturer.
For more detailed care information read our suggestions on Hardwood Floor Care and Maintenance to keep your hardwood flooring looking at its best.
Remember that this is a general guide for hardwood flooring installation. The specific materials and installation method you need can vary based on the type of hardwood flooring, and subfloor.
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the particular product you’ve chosen.
In conclusion, although installing hardwood flooring can be labouris, once you establish a rhythm and method it can be a fun experience and well worth it when you get to enjoy your home’s new floors.
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