Installation Options for Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a tough, long-lasting and beautiful option for your home. Whether you’re replacing a damaged floor or upgrading a room to this premium option, compare typical installation options today. Ask a professional for more information about hardwood floor installation in your home.
Staple Down
One of the most common options for hardwood flooring is stapling down each flooring piece. A flooring stapler is a powerful, convenient tool that puts large staples through your flooring. The staples are installed at an angle as your contractor installs your flooring, which creates a sturdy base and keeps all the staples hidden between the boards.
Nail Down
Similar to stapling, nailing is a common hardwood floor installation technique. Nails are often more affordable than staples and are more gentle on your hardwood flooring. If you’re installing thin pieces of flooring, nails are typically preferred to staples. For thicker boards, they may not offer the same long-lasting hold.
Floating
A floating floor is quick to install and still offers a great look. First, your contractor will place a pad on top of your subfloor. Next, your hardwood flooring is either snapped or glued together. It isn’t connected directly to the subfloor but is left to float on top of it. Floating floors can feel softer and are typically less noisy than other installation methods.
Glue Down
Finally, hardwood flooring can be glued directly to your subfloor. This isn’t recommended for natural hardwood, because it may crack as it expands, but it’s a fast and effective option for engineered hardwood flooring. A strong adhesive prevents engineered flooring from squeaking and creates a firm bond between the subfloor and flooring.
Choosing an Installation Team
Request a quote from a local contractor and discuss your hardwood floor installation options. Each of these options has its own pros and cons, so work with a professional to determine the best option for your flooring type and your home.