Hardwood Flooring Installation: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Upgrading your home with hardwood flooring is an excellent investment that adds warmth, durability, and value to your space. Whether you’re in Norwalk, Stamford, Greenwich, Fairfield, Darien, or Westport, CT, getting new floors installed is an exciting process—but it’s essential to know what to expect and how to prepare.
At Hardwood Floors LLC, we specialize in high-quality hardwood, luxury vinyl, and carpet installation for homes and businesses across Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. If you’re considering new hardwood floors, here’s a guide to help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free installation.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Hardwood Floors
Before installation, the first step is selecting the right type of hardwood for your space. The key factors to consider include:
- Solid vs. Engineered Hardwood: Solid hardwood is made from a single piece of wood and can be refinished multiple times, while engineered hardwood consists of layers designed for better moisture resistance.
- Wood Species: Popular choices include oak, maple, hickory, and walnut, each offering unique grain patterns and durability.
- Finish Options: Prefinished hardwood is ready to go after installation, while unfinished wood allows for customization on-site.
- Plank Width & Style: Wide planks create a more modern, open look, while narrow planks provide a classic feel.
If you’re unsure about the best flooring for your home in Stamford, Wilton, or New Canaan, our team at Hardwood Floors LLC can guide you through your options.
Step 2: Preparing Your Home for Installation
1. Clear the Room
Before installation day, remove all furniture, rugs, and personal belongings from the space. If you have heavy items, we can assist with moving them.
2. Check for Moisture Issues
Hardwood expands and contracts with humidity, so it’s important to check for any moisture problems before installation, especially in homes near Westport, Ridgefield, or Pound Ridge, NY. We can conduct moisture testing to ensure your subfloor is ready.
3. Adjust Indoor Climate
For best results, maintain indoor humidity levels between 35-55% and keep your home at a stable temperature before and after installation.
4. Plan for Noise & Dust
Installing hardwood floors involves some noise and dust, particularly if old flooring needs to be removed. We use dust containment systems to minimize the mess, but it’s best to seal off adjacent rooms if possible.
Step 3: What Happens During Installation?
1. Removing Old Flooring
If your home in Greenwich, Darien, or Fairfield has existing flooring, we’ll remove it carefully to avoid damage to the subfloor. This process may take a few hours, depending on the room size.
2. Subfloor Preparation
A smooth and level subfloor is crucial for proper installation. We’ll check for uneven areas, repair damage, and install underlayment if needed.
3. Acclimating the Hardwood
Hardwood needs time to adjust to your home’s environment. We’ll deliver the flooring 3-5 days in advance so it can acclimate to the humidity and temperature.
4. Installing the Hardwood Planks
We use professional techniques such as nail-down, glue-down, or floating floor installation, depending on the wood type and subfloor. Our expert team ensures tight seams, proper alignment, and a flawless finish.
5. Cleaning & Final Touches
Once the installation is complete, we remove debris, inspect the flooring, and apply a protective finish if necessary. Your home will be left spotless, ready for you to enjoy your brand-new hardwood floors!
Step 4: After Installation – Care & Maintenance Tips
To keep your new hardwood floors in Norwalk, Westchester, or surrounding areas looking their best, follow these simple maintenance tips:
✔ Wait before moving furniture back – Allow 24 hours for the floor to settle.
✔ Use felt pads – Attach felt pads to furniture legs to prevent scratches.
✔ Avoid excessive moisture – Use a damp (not wet) mop for cleaning.
✔ Sweep regularly – Remove dirt and debris to prevent surface damage.
✔ Control indoor humidity – Keep humidity stable to prevent warping or gaps.
Why Choose Hardwood Floors LLC?
At Hardwood Floors LLC, we bring over 20 years of expertise in hardwood flooring installation, refinishing, and repair. We proudly serve homeowners in Norwalk, Greenwich, Stamford, Fairfield, Darien, and beyond with top-quality craftsmanship.
✔ Eco-Friendly Materials – We source sustainable hardwood from North American and European mills.
✔ Highly Rated Service – Check out our 5-star reviews from satisfied customers.
✔ Competitive Pricing – Get the best value for high-quality flooring.
✔ Expert Installation Team – Skilled professionals who ensure perfect results.
Get Your Hardwood Flooring Installed Today!
Ready to transform your home with beautiful new hardwood floors? Contact Hardwood Floors LLC today!
📍 Showroom Locations:
- Norwalk, CT
- Tarrytown, NY
📞 Call Us: (203) 913-4209
🌐 Visit Our Website: www.hardwoodfloorsllc.com
Let us help you bring your dream floors to life! 🚀
