Hardwood floor installation professionals near you

A few days before your installation, your pro will typically drop off your flooring to give it time to acclimate to your home. Later, during your pro’s visit, they'll typically begin by preparing the subfloor, which might include removing your old flooring and making sure the surface is perfectly level. Next, they’ll likely start the installation, a process that involves cutting and securing the wood planks, so it’s a good idea to prepare for some noise and dust. After the main installation is complete, your pro will typically do any necessary sanding and staining, re-install trim, clean up the area, and walk you through the results.

Before hiring a pro to install your hardwood floors, be sure to ask these questions:

• Are you bonded and insured, and do you have any necessary licenses?

• Can I see a portfolio of your previous work or speak with recent clients?

• What’s the estimated timeline for the project?

• Will you supply the flooring materials, or do I need to purchase them separately?

• Can you provide a detailed, itemized quote that includes labor, materials, and any potential extra charges?

• What do I need to do to prepare the space, such as moving furniture or removing old flooring?

• Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on your workmanship and materials?

Typically, it will take a professional one to two weeks to install hardwood floors, but the total time depends on several factors. For example:

• Size and layout of the space: Larger or more complex rooms with many corners and angles will naturally take more time.

• Removal of existing flooring: Tearing out old carpet, tile, or other flooring materials adds a significant step to the process.

• Subfloor preparation: The subfloor may need to be repaired, leveled, or cleaned before the new wood can be installed.

• Wood acclimation: New hardwood planks need to sit in your home for several days to adjust to the indoor climate before installation.

• Finishing and curing: If you choose unfinished wood, it requires sanding, staining, and multiple coats of finish, with drying time between each step.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:

• Type of wood: The species and grade of wood you choose can significantly affect the price. Common woods like oak are often more affordable than exotic or rare species.

• Project size: Larger spaces will require more materials and labor.

• Subfloor condition: If your subfloor is uneven, damaged, or needs to be replaced, this can add to the overall cost and time required for the project.

• Removal of existing flooring: Tearing out and disposing of old carpet, tile, or other flooring materials can be an additional charge.

• Labor and complexity: The cost of labor can vary, and more complex installations — like laying planks in a herringbone pattern or working around stairs — will typically cost more.

Hardwood floors typically need regular sweeping, and spills should be cleaned up immediately to prevent damage. When mopping, use a pH-neutral cleaner made for wood and avoid using too much water, which can cause warping. Placing pads under furniture and rugs in high-traffic areas can help protect the finish and reduce scratching.

You might be able install hardwood flooring yourself if you have moderate DIY skills, the right tools, and enough time. However, the difficulty depends on the type of hardwood and the condition of your subfloor. Here are a few things to consider:

• Solid hardwood: Typically nailed or stapled to a wood subfloor and requires precise measuring, cutting, and specialized tools.

• Engineered hardwood: Can be nailed, glued, or installed as a floating floor, making it somewhat more DIY-friendly.

• Subfloor preparation: The subfloor must be clean, level, and dry to prevent squeaks or long-term damage.

• Tools required: Common tools include a flooring nailer, saw, spacers, tape measure, and moisture meter.

• Time commitment: A single room may take a weekend or longer depending on your experience.

While DIY installation can save on labor costs, mistakes can be expensive to fix. If you’re unsure about subfloor conditions or installation methods, hiring a professional can help ensure a durable and properly finished floor.

Before your flooring pro arrives, take these steps:

Step 1: Clear the room. Remove all furniture, rugs, wall hangings, and personal items from the area. This gives your pro a clean slate to work with and protects your belongings from dust and damage.

Step 2: Prepare the subfloor. Vacuum or sweep the subfloor thoroughly to get rid of any dust and debris. A clean surface is essential for a smooth and level installation.

Step 3: Remove old flooring. Confirm with your pro whether they will be removing the existing carpet, tile, or other flooring. If you're responsible for removal, make sure it's done before they arrive.

Step 4: Acclimate the new wood. Your new hardwood planks will need to sit in your home for several days before installation. This allows the wood to adjust to your home's temperature and humidity, which can help prevent future warping or gapping.

Step 5: Plan for pets and children. The installation process can be loud and dusty, so it’s a good idea to arrange for kids and pets to be out of the house. This helps ensure their safety and allows the crew to work without interruptions.