Installation of Hardwood Floor

Being knowledgeable about the flooring, knowing what to expect, and being prepared will help the installation process go quickly and smoothly. We help you every step of the way after you’ve selected your new floor: professional on-site measurement, removal of old flooring, and skilled installation that includes moving your furniture and replacing trim. We do it all expertly, so your floor will look amazing and give lasting satisfaction.

Before Installation Day of Hardwood

• Furniture is the first step. All furniture and other objects need to be removed from the installation areas. Our installers can remove your furniture, but there may be an additional charge. If we do remove your furniture, you will need to empty any contents of the furniture or closets. We also do not disconnect or reconnect electronics such as TVs, computers, etc.

• The area of installation must be climate controlled (heated or air conditioned). Indoor humidity needs to stay between 45-65%.

• Take into consideration how your old floor covering will be taken up and disposed of. This can be time consuming and we recommend checking with us about the cost and the method of disposal. If you prefer to remove your current flooring, please do this at least one day prior to arrival of your hardwood product to allow time for cleanup and floor preparation. If removing old carpet, please pull the staples out of the floor from the original pad.

• Have a plan for your doors. It is very possible that the interior doors (bedroom, closet, basement) the hardwood is installed under may not swing freely because of the new hardwood’s thickness. Some installers will remove the doors to install the hardwood and then, if possible, rehang them after the installation is complete. If the doors do not clear the new hardwood after the installation, you may need to arrange for a qualified carpenter to cut down the doors. Please discuss this with your salesperson.

• What to do concerning your trim. Any shoe molding and quarter round needs to be removed for hardwood installation. Your installer can do this but at an additional charge and they will not be responsible for damage or breakage due to dry or brittle wood. Paint on walls, baseboards and woodwork may also need touch-ups after installation is complete. If this is happens, it is your responsibility.

• What to do concerning subflooring. Either existing subflooring may need to be prepared to welcome the hardwood or new subflooring may be needed. We recommend discussing this with us and having qualified professionals do the subflooring work if necessary, as it is important that the subfloor be as clean and level as possible.

• Make sure your clean-up plan is clearly discussed with installers. New hardwood installation will produce waste. These materials are usually collected by your installer and left at your trash site. Check with your retailer before the day of installation so you’re clear about the clean-up, if there are added costs to do so, and ask about the plan for any extra materials to be left for you to be used for future repairs if necessary.

During Installation of Hardwood

• Your presence is essential on installation day. You should be prepared to be at home and available for any questions the installers may have. You being there will insure that the appropriate hardwood gets installed in the correct areas. Since it is difficult to estimate the length and circumstances of each job, installers may not always be able to give you an exact time of arrival. Our suggestion is to be flexible and stay in contact with your retail salesperson and installers.
• Family safety is another very important part of the installation day. Make sure to keep your children and pets out of the work area on the installation day because it can be a hazardous area.
• Before the job is complete, we recommend you do a walk-through. Have the chief installer walk you through the whole job. This will provide a chance to ask any questions you may have.

After Installation of  Hardwood

• Make sure the rooms have good ventilation, especially if you are sensitive to odors or dust. Good ventilation should be instituted for 48-72 hours after installation.