Common Wood Flooring Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Installing new flooring can transform your home, but the process isn’t always as simple as it seems. Many homeowners fall into a few common pitfalls that can affect the final look, durability, and longevity of their floors. To help you avoid these mistakes, we’ve outlined five of the most common flooring installation errors—and how to ensure your project goes smoothly.
1. Not Preparing the Subfloor Properly
The foundation of any flooring installation is the subfloor, so it’s crucial that it is level, clean, and dry before laying any material. A subfloor with imperfections can lead to uneven flooring, gaps, and potentially structural damage over time.
How to Avoid It: Before installing new floors, thoroughly inspect and prepare your subfloor. Ensure that it is level, dry, and free from debris. If you’re installing wood or tile flooring, the subfloor should be solid and free from moisture. For concrete floors, be sure to check for any cracks that may need repair.
2. Choosing the Wrong Flooring for the Room
Every room has specific needs based on factors like foot traffic, moisture levels, and temperature fluctuations. Choosing the wrong type of flooring can lead to premature wear, warping, or damage.
How to Avoid It: Be sure to choose the right flooring for the specific room. For example, wood and laminate are great choices for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, but for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, consider tile or vinyl flooring. Your flooring specialist can guide you on the best material for each space.
3. Incorrectly Installing Underlayment
Underlayment provides additional support, soundproofing, and moisture resistance for your flooring. Installing it incorrectly—or skipping it altogether—can result in flooring that shifts, squeaks, or doesn’t perform well in high-moisture areas.
How to Avoid It: Make sure you install the underlayment correctly, ensuring it is appropriate for the type of flooring you're using. Follow manufacturer recommendations on how to place and secure the underlayment, as this can greatly affect the final result of your floor installation.
4. Not Acclimating Flooring Before Installation
Wood and certain other types of flooring need to acclimate to the temperature and humidity of the room before installation. If this step is skipped, your flooring may expand or contract after installation, leading to gaps or warping.
How to Avoid It: Allow your flooring to acclimate in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours. This helps the material adjust to the environment, preventing issues down the line.
5. Skipping Professional Installation
Some homeowners attempt to install flooring themselves to save on costs. However, improper installation can lead to costly mistakes, such as uneven floors, gaps, or poor fitting, which can drastically affect the overall look and function of your floors.
How to Avoid It: While DIY installation may seem appealing, hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly the first time. Experienced installers can handle complex layouts, ensure the right tools and materials are used, and provide a clean, precise finish.
Conclusion
By avoiding these common installation mistakes, you can ensure your flooring project is a success. Proper preparation, selecting the right materials, and opting for professional installation can result in beautiful floors that last for years. If you're ready to install new floors, our expert team is here to help. Visit our showroom today to explore our collection and get advice on your next project!