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Essential Preparation Steps for Installing Timber Flooring

End user guideline for installation preparation

Timber flooring can truly transform your home, giving it that stylish upgrade you’ve been dreaming of. However, before you jump in, there are a few important things to consider. Whether you’re laying hybrid flooring or opting for engineered hardwood, this guide will help you prepare for a smooth installation. So, let’s dive into the essential steps for installing wood flooring to ensure your home turns out as bonza as you have always imagined. 

Top Tips for Installing Wooden Flooring:

  1. Clear the Room
  2. Assess the Subfloor
  3. Test the Moisture
  4. Acclimate the Wood
  5. Gather Tools and Materials
  6. Make a Plan for Installation Day

1. Clean the Room:

Before any timber hits the floor, you’ll need to clear out the space. This means removing all furniture, emptying closets and drawers, taking down any wall decorations like pictures or paintings, and removing curtains and blinds for better access. If your quote doesn’t include old flooring removal, make sure to handle that yourself. Also, if your car’s parked near the driveway or garage, move it to another spot to avoid any obstructions.

2. Assess the Subfloor: 

Now, it’s crucial to make sure your subfloor is in perfect condition. It has to be dry, clean, and level, as uneven flooring can lead to all sorts of problems down the line. If you notice any bumps or cracks, patch them up before laying down your new timber flooring—after all, nobody wants a wobbly chair or creaky floorboard! So don’t be a bludger, grab some levelling compound (keeping in mind it has its drawbacks) or hire a contractor to smoothen the floor for you. This is one of the best ways to guarantee a flawless finish that lasts.

3. Test the Moisture:

This is when things get really serious: moisture is the enemy of timber, and it can wreak havoc on your beautiful floors if not properly managed. Warping, mould, and gaps can all be caused by excess moisture, so moisture testing is non-negotiable. Grab a moisture metre and make sure your flooring, including the subfloor, is moist-free. Getting this step right will help your flooring last without any nasty surprises down the road.

4. Acclimate the Wood:

Wood, like any natural material, needs time to adapt to its surroundings. Before installing your timber flooring, allow it to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least two to three days. This prevents the wood from expanding or contracting after installation, providing a long-lasting finish. With engineered timber flooring growing in popularity, companies like LUXO Floors have the expertise to deliver smooth,  level, and durable installations. So leave it to the experts for a beautiful, lasting result your home deserves.

5. Gather Tools and Materials:

There’s nothing worse than realising you’re missing a crucial tool halfway through your project. To avoid this, double-check that you have all the necessary tools and materials before you begin. Being well-prepared will make the installation process smooth and stress-free, saving you from running around like a headless chook. Having enough underlayment is just as important, as it provides essential support and protection for your flooring. And if you want to achieve that polished, chic look, be sure to source high-quality oak timber flooring from an ace contractor.

6. Make a Plan for Installation Day:

A little forward planning can make the installation process go a lot smoother. Use dust sheets or plastic sheeting to protect any furniture or belongings in adjacent rooms. If you have pets, decide whether to keep them at home or make other arrangements to keep them safe and out of the way. Lastly, stay available in case the installers need any clarifications during the process—being on hand will ensure everything goes according to plan. 

So What Next?

While selecting the perfect timber flooring is crucial, the real key to success lies in the preparation. Don’t forget to clear the room, assess the subfloor, test for moisture, acclimate your wood, and gather all your supplies before you start

LUXO Floors is your partner in getting the best flooring at your disposal. Whether you need expert advice or full installation services for standard or hybrid flooring installation, we’ve got you covered without breaking the bank. Contact us today and find out how we can bring your flooring vision to life.