Introduction to Hard Surface Flooring
Installing hard surface flooring can completely transform the aesthetic of a room. Whether you’re opting for hardwood, laminate, tile, or vinyl, the installation process requires careful planning and attention to detail.
Preparation Before Installation
Before installing hard surface flooring, it’s crucial to start with thorough preparation. We Clear out the room and remove any existing flooring, ensuring a clean and level subfloor. Subfloor prep is always discussed prior to installation. Prepare for major construction. There will be dust. Depending on the type of flooring, you may also need to install an underlayment to improve sound insulation and provide a moisture barrier.
Installation Process
The method of installation can vary depending on the type of hard surface flooring you choose:
Hardwood: It is typically installed with urethane adhesive, but some varieties have a floating floor option. Allow hardwood to acclimate to the room’s humidity for at least 48 hours before installing.
Laminate: Often installed using a click-lock system that doesn’t require adhesive or nails, our new waterproof options are a great choice.
Tile: Requires precise spacers to ensure even grout lines. Extra care is needed to obtain the optimal outcome. Subfloor will have stricter tolerances for large format tiles.
Vinyl: Available in click-lock and glue options, our new products are designed to be installed over most existing flooring. Fully waterproof vinyl comes in various styles and colors, for the Florida installation it is the most recommended.
Finishing Touches
Once the hard surface flooring is installed, we finish the project by adding baseboards or molding to cover the expansion gaps along the edges of the floor.
Understanding the steps and specific requirements for installing hard surface flooring will help you achieve the best results.
