Step-by-Step Guide: What to Expect During Hardwood Floor Installation

 

If you live in Norwalk, CT or Tarrytown, NY and are considering hardwood flooring installation, you may be wondering what the process looks like. Installing hardwood floors is an investment in your home’s comfort, beauty, and long-term value. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare and ensures a smooth experience.

Here’s a step-by-step guide prepared by the experts at All Hardwoods & Carpet.

1. Initial Consultation & Measurement

Every project begins with an in-home consultation. A professional will:

  • Measure each room and calculate square footage.
  • Evaluate the subfloor (plywood, concrete, or old flooring).
  • Discuss your lifestyle (pets, kids, traffic levels).
  • Help you choose between solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, or luxury vinyl alternatives.

📍 Local tip: In Fairfield County homes, basements often use engineered hardwood due to humidity. In Westchester County, many homeowners prefer solid oak for main living spaces.

2. Selecting Wood Species, Style & Finish

You’ll choose your hardwood based on:

  • Species (oak, maple, hickory, walnut, bamboo).
  • Grade & grain (traditional vs. modern look).
  • Stain colors (light, medium, dark).
  • Finish type: water-based polyurethane (fast drying, eco-friendly) or oil-based (rich look, highly durable).

👉 At All Hardwoods & Carpet, we offer a free in-home color test—samples are applied directly to your floor so you can see how stains look in your own lighting.

3. Preparing the Room

Before installation begins, preparation is crucial:

  • Furniture removal: Homeowners usually clear rooms or request movers.
  • Carpet or tile removal: Old flooring is taken out and disposed of.
  • Subfloor inspection: The surface must be level, clean, and dry.
  • Moisture testing: Especially important if the home has a concrete slab.

⚡ Pro tip: If your subfloor is uneven, installers may sand or level it before continuing.

4. Acclimation of Hardwood

Hardwood needs to “acclimate” to your home’s environment. This prevents warping or gaps later.

  • Planks are delivered and left in the home for 3–5 days.
  • They adjust to the home’s humidity and temperature.

5. Installation Day

There are different installation methods depending on your flooring choice:

  • Nail-Down: Solid hardwood planks are nailed to a plywood subfloor.
  • Glue-Down: Engineered hardwood is glued directly to concrete or subfloor.
  • Floating Floor: Engineered wood clicks together over underlayment, ideal for condos and multi-level homes.

Installers will work systematically, ensuring tight seams, consistent patterns, and proper expansion gaps along walls.

6. Sanding, Staining & Finishing (for unfinished hardwood)

If you choose unfinished hardwood, the process includes:

  • Sanding the entire floor for a smooth surface.
  • Applying stain to achieve your chosen color.
  • Sealing with polyurethane (water-based or oil-based).

Most projects require 2–3 coats, with drying time in between.

7. Clean-Up & Curing Time

  • Installers remove debris and clean the site.
  • You may need to wait 24–48 hours before walking on the floor.
  • Heavy furniture should not be placed for at least a few days.

8. Final Walkthrough & Warranty

The installer will:

  • Walk you through the finished project.
  • Explain maintenance tips for longevity.
  • Provide warranty information for both labor and materials.

🏡 Why Professional Installation Matters

While DIY is tempting, hardwood installation involves moisture testing, subfloor leveling, proper adhesives, and finishing techniques. Hiring a professional like All Hardwoods & Carpet ensures a long-lasting, beautiful floor.

📈 Benefits You’ll Enjoy

  • Increased home resale value.
  • Improved indoor comfort and style.
  • Long-term durability when properly maintained.

📍 Local Flooring Experts in CT & NY

With over 30 years of experience, All Hardwoods & Carpet is trusted by homeowners across Norwalk, CT and Tarrytown, NY for professional hardwood floor installations.

📞 Call us today:

  • Norwalk, CT 06851 – (203) 687-4925
  • Tarrytown, NY 10591 – (914) 313-8822

👉 Schedule your consultation at www.hardwoodfloorsllc.com

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