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Answers · 13 questions

Installation

Most of what determines whether a floor lasts happens before the first board goes down. These are the decisions made in that window.

What subfloor is required for hardwood installation?

Solid hardwood is typically nailed to a plywood subfloor, while engineered hardwood can be nailed, glued, or floated over plywood, concrete, or some existing flooring, depending on the product.

Can hardwood be installed over existing tile?

In some cases engineered floating floors can go over tile if the surface is flat and level, but solid nail-down hardwood generally requires the tile to be removed first.

What is the difference between nail-down, glue-down, and floating installation?

Nail-down secures boards directly to a wood subfloor, glue-down bonds boards to concrete or plywood with adhesive, and floating installation clicks boards together resting on an underlayment.

Do I need to remove baseboards before installing hardwood?

It is common practice to remove baseboards, or at least shoe molding, so flooring can be installed cleanly to the wall with an expansion gap, then trim is reinstalled afterward.

How much expansion gap is needed around the perimeter?

Typically 1/2 to 3/4 inch is left around the room's perimeter to allow the wood to expand and contract with seasonal humidity changes, later hidden by baseboard or quarter-round trim.

Can hardwood be installed over radiant heating?

Engineered hardwood is generally compatible with radiant heat systems when installed and operated per manufacturer guidelines, including gradual temperature ramp-up. Solid hardwood is far riskier.

Do I need to remove old carpet before installing hardwood?

Yes, carpet, padding, and any staples or tack strips must be fully removed and the subfloor cleaned and leveled before hardwood installation begins.

How is squeaking prevented during installation?

Proper fastening into floor joists, using the correct nail or staple spacing, and ensuring the subfloor is flat and secure all help minimize squeaks after installation.

What direction should hardwood boards run?

Boards are typically installed parallel to the longest wall or perpendicular to floor joists for structural strength, though the most visually pleasing direction is sometimes prioritized.

Can hardwood floors be installed in one day?

Small rooms with simple floating-floor installations can sometimes be completed in a day, but nail-down or glue-down installations with finishing work typically require multiple days.

Is a moisture barrier needed during installation?

Yes, especially over concrete subfloors, a vapor or moisture barrier is typically required to protect hardwood from ground moisture that could cause warping or mold over time.

How is transition between hardwood and other flooring handled?

Transition strips or reducers are used at doorways or where hardwood meets tile, carpet, or vinyl, accommodating any height differences and allowing for natural expansion movement.

Can furniture stay in the room during installation?

Rooms generally need to be cleared of furniture for installation, though professional crews can often move and store furniture temporarily for an added fee if requested in advance.

Have a floor that does not match any of the above? Call (848) 352-7337 and describe it. We would rather answer a question than sell the wrong floor.

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