Flooring Installation Tips
If you’re considering replacing your flooring, you’ll want to be prepared for the process. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a floor material, including performance, traffic, and room type. You also want to choose a floor that complements your furnishings, decor, and walls. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect floor.
Time to Install Flooring
The amount of time required to install flooring depends on the type of flooring and its size. A small room can be laid in two to three hours, but larger rooms can take several days. The time taken to cut and fit the flooring around obstacles will add to the time. If you’re planning to install hardwood flooring, you’ll have to plan for at least a day for the project.
After the flooring has been installed, you’ll have to install new baseboards. You can save money on this step by going with shoe molding instead of quarter-round molding. It’s also best to remove the base molding to allow wood planks to be installed as close as possible to the wall.
Materials needed for flooring installation
There are several materials needed to install a new floor. First, you need a drill. It is important to use a 12-, 18-, or 20-volt drill with a spade bit for cutting clean, large holes. Also, you will need scrap lumber to support the underside of the floor.
Subfloor materials will depend on the type of floor you’re installing. OSB or plywood sheets are common choices for subfloors. You can also use a combination of OSB and plywood.
Common problems with new floors
Installing a new floor is a time-consuming, back-breaking process. It can be tempting to skip steps and cut corners, but this can lead to a whole host of problems. Improper installation can cause your flooring to become loose and move, or even create gaps between boards. You should also avoid using too many fasteners, as this can make the floor rigid. These are just a few of the common problems homeowners face when installing new floors.
Poor floor preparation is a major cause of many problems. If the surface is improperly prepared, a new floor will look uneven and will not last as long as it could. It can also damage the floor, especially hardwood floors, which are sensitive to the subfloor. If you reside in Honolulu, Oahu, we suggest contacting a few Honolulu flooring companies to get cost estimates before you make a decision.