If you have considered the options, consulted with an expert, and done your research, chances are you may have decided that hardwood flooring is your preferred flooring material for your project. Once installed, you should expect to have an extremely attractive floor that will last a lifetime with proper care.
Keep in mind that perhaps the most important step of your decision is choosing quality hardwood flooring installation. A good installer can mean the difference between an easy to care for and long lasting floor, or squeaky, uneven, and/or crooked floorboards that will eventually require replacement.
Fortunately, there are some clear signs to look for in an installer that will almost guarantee you are getting what you pay for. When you choose My Affordable Flooring for your hardwood flooring installation in Milwaukee and the surrounding areas, you’ll notice these items are met and exceeded.
A skilled and experienced installer will:
1. Provide a detailed quote
A quote is not an itemized list of approximately what you’ll be paying for installation, it’s a legally binding document that should spell out in detail exactly what will be done, and exactly what the costs are for each item and task. This includes preparation, installation, and finishing. If your quote is missing any of these items, you may want to reconsider your installer.
2. Properly acclimate your hardwood
If flooring materials aren’t acclimated to the environment in which they will be installed, the material can expand or contract, or otherwise become malformed after installation. An experienced installer knows that this process is critical to installation, and can vary in different climates and at different times of the year. The installer should take moisture measurements and advise on how to properly acclimate the material.
3. Measure, calculate and prepare the layout.
Since rooms are rarely a perfect square, your installer needs to spend considerable time planning before beginning work on the floor. Be sure to discuss the proper direction of the floorboards and agree on what needs to be done around any doorways, stairs, vents, or other obstacles.
4. Prepare the subfloor
The quote should provide details about the subfloor preparation that is required as well. Any old flooring will need to be removed and repairs to subfloor boards made to ensure the new flooring is fastened to a flat, level, clean, dry, and completely rigid substrate. The installer will apply the appropriate underlayment over the subfloor, which helps to regulate air and moisture movement and extends the life of the flooring material.
5. Using the right type, quality, and quantity of fasteners
Another error that can significantly reduce the expected lifespan of your floor is improper fastening. Make sure your installer specifies that appropriate nails will be used, and in what locations on each floorboard. For most installations, the installer will use a pneumatic flooring nailer, and attach each board with several nails, ensuring that the ends are firmly nailed in place to avoid loosening and movement over time.
Call Today for a Free Estimate!
Are you interested in hardwood flooring for your home? My Affordable Flooring will exceed these expectations for our installation services, guaranteed. Call us today at 262-653-1120 for a free, no-obligation estimate, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, in-home visit.
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