Wood Flooring Installation Checklist
These tips will make your wood flooring installation as smooth and easy as possible.
Getting Ready
Installing a new floor is a construction project. Some installation materials produce strong odors, and some construction activities are noisy. If you'll be living in your home while your new floor is being installed, plan accordingly to minimize disruption. Keep in mind that for a period of time, you won't be able to use the room receiving the new floor. It typically takes one to two days after the acclimation period to install a new floor, depending on subfloor conditions.
Before installation day, be sure that:
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If nailing: Nail Gun and cleats or staples
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If gluing: the proper adhesive (if over concrete, make sure it has a moisture barrier built into it), and a trowel that pairs with that adhesive
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Rubber Hammer to tighten planks up
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Tape Measure
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Pry Bar
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Chop/mitre Saw
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Table Saw
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Ear Protection
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Safety Goggles
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Chalk Line
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Variable Speed Drill
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If gluing, knee protection
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Marking tool (pen or pencil) for cutting boards to length
Your installation professional will obtain all necessary permits and licenses before installation begins.
Hardwood Installation Tips
If you’re nailing the floor down you will most likely rent a flooring nailer and you may get home and find it doesn’t have a protective plastic boot that is intended to keep it from scratching the floor. A simple but effective fix is to cover the metal base with masking tape.
Make absolutely sure the nails are set properly, and that you’re using an approved nail size, or you’ll end up with goosebumps at the seams. Also, when the installation is complete, be sure to thoroughly inspect your new floors for any nicks or minor gaps and fill these with wood putty that is the appropriate color.
During Installation
On installation day, our licensed, insured installers will be on time, courteous and efficient. They'll have the equipment they need, and they'll be ready to install your new floor. You won't need to provide any special tools or materials. Just meet these simple requirements:
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Make certain to have an adult (over age 18) with the authority to make installation decisions on hand during the installation process.
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Keep the temperature in the installation area between 60° and 80° Fahrenheit.
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Keep children and pets away from the installation area.
That's it! We'll take care of the rest.
Ceramic Tile
Homeowners who choose ceramic floor tiles do so most likely because tiles put the tile in versatile. Tiles can be used in numerous ways throughout the home and in many different rooms without the worry about water, staining or design. Many homeowners don’t take into account, however, that the surface is very hard and not as friendly as hardwood to feet and legs – keep this in mind.
Ceramic Tile Floor Installation Tools Checklist:
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Tape Measure
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Tile Cutter
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Tile Nippers
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Glass Cutter
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Combination Square
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Framing Square
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Notched Trowel
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Level
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Hammer
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Rubber Mallet
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Floor Scraper
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Caulking Gun and Caulk
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Chalk Line
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Screwdriver
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Putty Knife
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Utility Knife