Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its natural beauty, durability, and ability to enhance the value of a home. There are 2 types of hardwood floors

1. Solid Hardwood

2. Engineered Hardwood

While Hardwood floors are Durable, easy to maintain, allergy friendly and adds a great aesthetic appeal it comes with few demerits such as cost, climate sensitivity (can expand and contract) and susceptibility to scratches.

 

Installation Process

 

1. Measurement and Subfloor Assessment

Accurately measure the area where the flooring will be installed to determine how much hardwood you need. Inspect the subfloor for cleanliness, dryness, and levelness. Any imperfections should be repaired to ensure a smooth installation.

 

2. Installation

  • Before installation, allow the hardwood planks to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for 3-7 days. Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any imperfections should be addressed (e.g., repairing squeaky floors, filling gaps).
  • Hardwoods can be installed Nail-Down, glue-down or floating
  • At doorways or transitions to other flooring types, use transition strips to ensure a smooth finish.
  • Reinstall or add baseboards, ensuring they cover the expansion gap while allowing for movement.
  • Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any debris, and clean any surfaces as needed.

 

Merits of Hardwood Flooring

  1. Aesthetic Appeal:
    Hardwood flooring provides a timeless, natural beauty that enhances the elegance of any space and can increase home value.
  2. Durability:
    With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades, often outliving other flooring options. They are resistant to wear and tear.
  3. Refinishing Potential:
    Hardwood can be sanded and refinished multiple times throughout its life, allowing for restoration and a fresh look.
  4. Variety:
    Available in numerous species, colors, and finishes, hardwood flooring offers a wide range of design options to suit various tastes.
  5. Comfort:
    Hardwood floors provide a warm and inviting feel underfoot, especially in well-insulated spaces. 


Demerits of Hardwood Flooring

  1. Cost:
    Hardwood flooring can be one of the more expensive flooring options, both in terms of materials and installation.
  2. Susceptibility to Moisture:
    Hardwood is prone to warping, buckling, and damage from excessive moisture, making it less suitable for areas like bathrooms or basements.
  3. Scratching and Dents:
    While durable, hardwood can still be scratched or dented by heavy furniture or pet claws, requiring care in furniture placement.
  4. Temperature Sensitivity:
    Hardwood can expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes, leading to gaps or warping if not properly installed and maintained.
  5. Installation Complexity:
    Installing hardwood flooring can be more complicated than other flooring types, often requiring professional installation for the best results.