It can be an exciting time to transform the look of your home and install hardwood flooring. However, having hardwood flooring installed is quite different from carpeting if that is what you are used to. Here are some things you'll want to ask your hardwood flooring installation company.
Why Were The Hardwood Planks Delivered Early?
One of the crucial parts of installing hardwood flooring is to make sure that the hardwood planks acclimate to the space before they are installed. Wood will change in shape slightly based on the humidity of the home, with them shrinking or expanding slightly. If the wood does not acclimate to the space, it can cause problems with the installation.
For example, if the flooring expands once it is installed, it can cause the floor to buckle and lift up in places. If the flooring shrinks, the wood will have gaps in the floor due to already being installed. The acclimation process helps ensure that the planks are installed tightly with minimal gaps.
What Prep Work Is Necessary Before The Installation?
Your hardwood flooring contractor will inspect your floor for potential problems before the installation. One issue they will look for is a subfloor that is not level. They may recommend using self-leveling concrete to make the floor even, which will help prevent dips in the floor or places where you step on a floorboard and it presses inward.
Does The Hardwood Need To Be Stained?
Staining hardwood is completely up to you since it can drastically change the look of the wood. Some people prefer to keep the original color of the wood, while others want to stain it a different color. One thing to keep in mind is that you can always make the floors darker, but you cannot make them lighter without sanding off the current layer of stain. This means you may want to go with a lighter color in case you change your mind later.
Is A Water-Based Or Oil-Based Finish Better?
You will have the option of using a finish that is oil-based or water-based. Both are designed to provide your floor with protection but can make the floors look quite different. Oil-based finishes are more expensive, but they will give the wood a great shine that really makes the floors a focal point of your home. Water-based is cheaper and produces much less odor and faster dry times.
For more information about hardwood flooring, contact a professional.
