Incorporate elegance into your home by upgrading your floor. Hardwood flooring is both durable and attractive, a perfect addition to any space. However, a renovation of this nature requires careful planning and attention to detail in order to achieve the desired results. For this reason, tackling the project yourself should only be considered if you have the proper tools and knowledge. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value or just want to create a more beautiful space for yourself and family, hardwood floors can be the key.
Start by removing any existing flooring materials from the room. Vacuum the subflooring to remove any dust or debris. Next, roll out a vapor barrier paper and secure to the subflooring with staples at a minimum of 4” overlap. This step is important to protect your new wood from moisture that could lead to swelling, warping, or other damage.
Once the vapor barrier is in place, begin to lay out the new hardwood flooring. Carefully match the patterns of the boards and ensure that they are properly positioned and aligned. Be sure to allow for expansion and contraction as the seasons change. During this process, it is also a good idea to keep any furniture out of the room to avoid scratches and other marks.
After the flooring is laid, you can install baseboards and any other trim pieces required. This step can add to the overall cost of your project, but is well worth the investment. Be sure to account for any additional expenses such as the installation of trim work and transitions between different flooring materials when determining your budget.
The wood species you choose has a major impact on the look and performance of your hardwood floors. Oak is a popular choice for its durability and classic beauty, while walnut offers rich colors and distinctive grain patterns. Other common options include maple and hickory, all of which offer different levels of hardness, color, and grain pattern.
Once the hardwood is installed, make sure to care for it properly in order to maintain its beauty and longevity. Thoroughly sweep and vacuum frequently to remove dirt and debris, and use a dry microfiber mop or hardwood cleaner (not water) when cleaning your floors. In high-traffic areas, consider using a soft-bristled or specialty broom or invest in an area rug to reduce the amount of traffic on your floors. When rearranging or moving furniture, use felt pads on the bottom of the legs to prevent scratching and leave a 24–48 hour period before resuming normal usage.
The team of flooring experts at Tampa Flooring Solutions has years of experience and can offer insight on all flooring types, from hardwood to luxury vinyl tile. They are committed to helping homeowners achieve their dream homes with flooring that looks great and stands the test of time. Contact them today to learn more about their Tampa floor replacement contractor and floors for home and business throughout Florida.