Hardwood floors provide a home with warmth and natural beauty. To achieve the best results, your hardwood floor needs to be installed in the right way. Moisture is especially a factor you should worry about when having your hardwood floor installed. Then, you'll be able to increase the value of your home and make it much more beautiful.

The Floor Boards Must Be Acclimated

Professional hardwood floor installation specialists make sure that the floor is properly acclimated before installing the floor. When hardwood floors are not properly acclimated, they will expand and retract in a way that can cause your floor to become damaged.

The amount of time it takes for the hardwood floors to acclimate depends on the climate and the type of hardwood you will be using. Fortunately, the manufacturer of your hardwood flooring materials will usually be able to provide you with detailed instructions on how the floor needs to be acclimated.

Moisture Levels Must Be Checked

The moisture level of your floor needs to be checked before you have your hardwood floor installed. The floor needs to be completely dry before you lay down your hardwood floor. You shouldn't simply visually inspect the floor for moisture but you should also use a moisture meter.

Both moisture and temperature can affect the state of your hardwood floors. For example, during the winter, the floor contracts due to the lower temperatures. You will also need to worry about issues such as cupping and crowning.

The Subfloor Needs to Be Level

The subfloor needs to be prepared correctly before the hardwood flooring is laid down. For example, you will want to make sure that you don't have a floating floor because this can cause your hardwood floor to become damaged. The subfloor needs to be perfectly flattened to protect the hardwood floor underneath. 

There Shouldn't Be Any Board Defects

Hardwood floor installation technicians will inspect the boards to make sure they are in good condition before installing them. For example, if there are any defects found in a particular board, it should be sent back to the manufacturer and a different board should be used. 

The Boards Must Be Nailed Down Properly

The installation crew will make sure that the boards are nailed down properly, that there are enough nails, that there is enough space between the individual nails, and that the boards are properly secured to the ground. Then, you'll have a hardwood floor that looks great and lasts a long time before needing to be replaced.

For more information, contact a company such as B & D Hardwood Floors.

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