How To Install And Maintain Hardwood Flooring: 6 Things To Know

By: John Garcia | Date Posted: March 26, 2022

Hardwood flooring is a popular investment for many homeowners for several reasons. One of the main reasons is that hardwood flooring is incredibly durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance. Additionally, hardwood flooring is available in a variety of styles and colors that can complement any home décor.

However, before you invest in a hardwood floor installation, it’s important to understand the differences between different types of wood floors.

Different Types of Wood Floors

Laminate And Vinyl Flooring

Laminate And Vinyl Flooring

Laminate flooring is made from composite materials that are designed to look like real wood. Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option and is perfect for those who are on a tight budget.

Laminate flooring is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Additionally, laminate flooring is resistant to moisture, which makes it a great option for homes with pets or children. Laminate flooring is also easy to clean and can be swept or vacuumed regularly.

Vinyl flooring is another affordable option and is also waterproof and easy to clean. Vinyl flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home décor.

One of the main reasons why vinyl flooring is so popular is because it is incredibly durable. Vinyl flooring can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Additionally, vinyl flooring is resistant to moisture, which makes it a great option for homes with pets or children. Vinyl flooring is also easy to install and can be installed over an existing floor. Visit theflooringmetaverse.com to know more about vinyl flooring.

Engineered And Solid Wood Flooring

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Engineered wood flooring is made from real wood, but the planks are made from multiple layers of wood that are bonded together. Engineered wood flooring is more durable than laminate flooring and is perfect for those who have pets or children.

One of the main benefits of engineered wood flooring is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times. If your engineered wood floor starts to look a little worn down, you can sand it down and refinish it to restore its original appearance.

Additionally, engineered wood flooring is a great option for those who are looking for a more eco-friendly flooring option. Engineered wood flooring is made from sustainable materials and can be recycled when it’s time to replace it.

Solid wood flooring is made from a single piece of wood and is the most expensive option. However, solid wood flooring is also the most durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance.

One of the main benefits of hardwood flooring is that it is a low-maintenance option. Hardwood flooring can be swept or vacuumed regularly to keep it clean. Additionally, hardwood flooring can be polished to remove any scuffs or scratches.

It’s important to remember that hardwood flooring is a long-term investment. Hardwood flooring can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. With proper care, hardwood floors can increase the value of your home.

The Cost

Establish your Budget

The average cost for a square foot in an unfinished room starts at $0.50 per square foot for a basic laminate floor but can range up to $8 per square foot or more for some types of wood floors like oak or maple. The cost will depend on the type and quality of the flooring you choose, as well as the square footage of your project.

The cost of hardwood flooring can vary depending on the type of wood you choose. The most expensive option is solid wood flooring, while laminate and vinyl flooring are more affordable. Additionally, the cost will depend on the square footage of your project.

For example, the average cost to install hardwood floors in a 10×10 room is $800.

The Installation Process

Prepare Your Floor

Installing hardwood floors is a big project that should only be undertaken by those who are experienced in this type of work. The first step is to remove all of the furniture from the room and then remove the baseboards. Next, you’ll need to install a moisture barrier to protect the floor from moisture.

Once the moisture barrier is in place, you can begin installing the flooring. Start by nailing down the tongue-and-groove boards along the starting wall. Be sure to use a nail gun that has been specifically designed for hardwood floors so that you don’t damage the boards.

Continue installing the flooring by working your way across the room until you reach the opposite wall. Once all of the boards are in place, you can install the baseboards and then move all of the furniture back into the room.

The Maintenance

Once your hardwood floors are installed, it’s important to maintain them so that they last for years to come. Sweeping or vacuuming the floors on a regular basis to remove dirt and dust.

You should also mop the floors with a mild cleaning solution and water. Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners as they can damage the finish of the flooring. Hand-scraped wooden floors have been shown to be high-quality and very aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, you should place mats at all of the entrances to your home to help trap dirt and moisture. And, you should also place rugs in high-traffic areas to protect the floors from being scratched or damaged.

Use Protectant

One of the best ways to protect your hardwood floors is to use a floor protectant. Floor protectants help to seal the wood and prevent dirt, dust, and moisture from damaging the flooring. Additionally, floor protectants help to keep the floors looking shiny and new.

There are a variety of floor protectants available on the market, and you can find them at most home improvement stores. Floor protectants come in a variety of forms, including liquids, sprays, and waxes. Be sure to choose a protectant that is specifically designed for hardwood floors.

We hope this article has helped to shed some light on the benefits of installing hardwood flooring in your home. Hardwood is an investment that will last for decades and can complement any design style. We want you to be confident when making a decision about which type of wood flooring would best suit you, so we’ve provided insight into the different types of wood flooring, as well as the installation and maintenance process.

Thank you for reading!

John
 

John is the founder and chief editor of Homienjoy. With over 15 years of experience in the home improvement industry, John is passionate about helping homeowners confidently tackle their projects. Holding a civil engineering degree and working as a contractor, project manager, and consultant, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Homienjoy community.

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