How Long Does It Take To Install Hardwood Floors | What To Expect

Installing hardwood floors is a transformative process that can breathe new life into your home. Whether you're changing from carpet, tile, or laminate, hardwood floors offer timeless beauty, durability, and value. However, the installation process isn't as simple as laying down the planks and calling it a day. It requires careful planning, skilled labor, and an understanding of various factors that influence the timeline. All the more reason to choose professionals you can trust.

Importance of Understanding the Timeline

Understanding how long the process takes can help you plan accordingly, whether you're coordinating with contractors, scheduling around other home projects, or simply preparing to have your space under construction. Having realistic expectations about the installation timeline ensures a smoother experience overall.

Factors Affecting Installation Time

Understanding how these elements impact the timeline can help you better prepare for the process and ensure a smooth transition to your new floors.

Square Footage

The size of the area plays a significant role in determining how long it takes to install hardwood floors. Larger spaces require more time and effort compared to smaller ones. Additionally, intricate layouts or irregularly shaped rooms may also increase the installation time.

Type of Hardwood

Different hardwood species vary in hardness, density, and ease of installation. Some woods may require more intricate installation techniques or additional preparation, impacting the overall timeline.

Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood

Solid hardwood typically involves more labor-intensive installation methods, such as nail-down or staple-down techniques, while engineered hardwood may offer faster installation due to its versatility and stability. For more information on the best engineered hardwood for your home, feel free to explore our blog.

Typical Installation Timeline

By understanding the installation process, you can better anticipate the time required for your hardwood floor installation project. Here is an overview of the installation process:

• Preparing the subfloor
• Acclimating the wood
• Laying down the flooring
• Finishing touches such as trim installation and sanding

Rules of Thumb for Installation

The "Rule of 3" suggests that installation occurs in three main phases: Preparation, installation, and finishing touches, with each phase requiring its own time allocation. The "60 30 10 Rule" breaks down installation time into percentages, with approximately 60% on preparation, 30% on installation, and 10% on finishing touches.

Why Installation Time May Vary

Often, installation time may vary due to a variety of factors. Here, we list the most common: 

• Complexities of the Project: Factors like multiple rooms with different layouts or intricate design patterns can add complexity and time to the installation process.
• Preparation Required: Adequate preparation, including subfloor leveling and addressing moisture issues, is crucial for a successful installation.
• Unexpected Issues: Despite careful planning, unforeseen challenges such as hidden subfloor damage or material delivery delays may arise, requiring additional time and effort.

What to Expect During Hardwood Flooring Installation

Preparing Your Home

Before the installation begins, it's essential to clear the area where the hardwood floors will be installed. This includes removing furniture, rugs, and other obstacles to provide a clean and unobstructed workspace. Additionally, clearing space for the installation team can help speed up the process and minimize disruptions to your daily routine.

Proper subfloor preparation is crucial to ensure a stable and long-lasting floor. This may involve leveling the subfloor, addressing any moisture issues, and repairing any damage or irregularities to create a smooth and even surface for the hardwood to be installed on. Following these tips and tricks can streamline the installation process and contribute to the overall quality and longevity of your hardwood floors.

The Installation Process

Starting the journey of installing hardwood floors involves careful steps, from measuring the space to adding the final touches.

Layout and Measurements

• Installers will measure the space and determine the best layout for the hardwood planks to ensure a visually appealing result.
• This step may also involve marking guidelines for the installation.

Installation Techniques

• Depending on the type of hardwood and the chosen installation method, installers will use various techniques to secure the flooring in place.
• Common methods include nail-down, staple-down, glue-down, or floating installations.
• Each technique has its own requirements and considerations.

Finishing Touches

• This may include installing trim or molding around the edges of the room, filling in gaps between planks, and adding molding between the new hardwood and other existing flooring.
  

By combining accurate measurements, skilled installation techniques, and careful finishing touches, you'll end up with a beautiful hardwood floor that transforms your space.

Hardwood flooring manufacturers require that indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.

Post-Installation Considerations: Drying and Curing

After the hardwood installation, it's essential to allow adequate time for the floors to dry and cure before foot traffic resumes. Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before walking on newly installed hardwood floors.

The curing process can take several days or weeks, depending on factors such as humidity levels and the type of finish used. During this time, it's essential to avoid placing heavy furniture or rugs on the floors to prevent any damage to the finish. If you happen to scratch your hardwood floors accidentally, our blog on how to fix scratches on hardwood floors will help guide you on how to approach this.

Final Thoughts 

Understanding the numerous factors influencing the installation process is crucial for informed decision-making. From the choice between solid and engineered hardwood to considerations like acclimation, preparation, and post-installation care, each element plays a role in determining the duration of the process.

By understanding this process, homeowners can set realistic expectations and collaborate effectively with professionals for a successful outcome.

We encourage those considering hardwood floor installation to reach out for professional consultation and guidance, whether it's for choosing the right type of hardwood, understanding the installation process, or planning for maintenance. With an understanding of the process and expert assistance, you can start the journey of transforming your living space with confidence and clarity.