1. Understand your sub-floor before you start
The type of hardwood you choose depends on the material of your subfloor and its limitations. Whether concrete or plywood, the material will also help determine the installation method –floats, nails, or glue. You must also investigate if the thickness of the hardwood will cause height restrictions, especially near the doors. The floor may also cause the height of the first or last stair to vary.
2. Determine the general scope and objectives before you start
When hiring the contractor, you must first determine which parts of your home you want the hardwood flooring installed and the budgetary allowance. If you already have a hardwood floor in certain rooms, match the species and color for a coordinated look. You may also choose to refinish the existing wood to your current choice.
3. Determine your general budget
You must have your budget planned with an upper limit in mind. Only when you have your funds figured out would you decide on the type and quality of hardwood and the area you can cover? Also, hardwood flooring can be expensive, so you may want to protect the home in parts, one room at a time. Also, if you have the budget, it doesn’t have to imply that you choose the expensive option to spend it all.
4. Do some research on local flooring stores/contractors – involve them early in the process
Contact local agents, friends, and trusted advisors for contractors. You may also research online or find trusted agents through Angie’s list for a small fee. If you search for a contractor online, read reviews and testimonials before hiring them.
5. Beware that cheaper is not better
Often, we tend to go with the cheapest quote. While a company may be quoting half of another, please enquire about the grades of wood used and the installation method. The inferior milling, knotted grades of wood often come at a fraction of the cost of quality hardwood. Avoid bamboo flooring as it cannot handle foot traffic or water exposure. Also, Big Box Stores are usually cheaper but offer mostly bamboo. If buying online, check shipment costs and return policies just if the product does not turn out to be satisfactory.
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6. Style considerations – what are your preferences?
Your home needs to be made to your choice; thus, you must choose what you like best. Choose from various grains and colors based on the rest of your home and your liking. Also, it would help if you considered the plank’s thickness and the texture – smooth or distressed.
7. Family usage and pets
You must choose the wood according to the type of usage it will undergo. If you have pets and kids, use lighter colors and a satin finish, as the scratches and footprints won’t show. Also, oil-based poly will tend to hold up better than water-borne ones. You may want an extra coat of poly for longevity.
8. Pre-finished v/s site finished
It would help to decide whether you want the wood to be factory-finished or on-site after installation. Pre-finished wood provides easy and faster installation and is generally less messy and smelly. On the other hand, the site-finished wood has a consistent color and smoother edges. You can also customize the paint on the test and trial method. Also, it is preferred for kitchens and entryways as it is more impervious to moisture.
9. Special considerations
You may want to consider cost underlayment as a sound barrier if you are set up in a condo and have restrictions on good transmissions. These will require a floating floor. If you have terrazzo, terracotta, or vinyl asbestos tiles, the removal will be costly and need licensing and air quality testing. Also, the prep work will be much more to make the floor smooth, increasing the cost multifold. You may opt for engineered hardwood floors approved for radiant heat in case of radiant heat.
10. Plan on your timing-many underestimate the time frame
It is a time-consuming process with around a week needed for acclimation of wood, depending on the species. Account for the time of demo and installation and plan to avoid delay when an important event is coming up. Choosing your hardwood flooring can be tricky; thus, if you’re confused, it is best to consult an expert.
