Installing Canadian Engineered or Hardwood Flooring: 7 Things to Remember
Are you thinking about installing Canadian engineered or hardwood flooring in your home? Both are great choices that add beauty, value, and durability to any space.
However, there are some important things to remember to ensure the installation goes smoothly and that the result meets your expectations.
Let’s dive into the key points to remember.
Canadian Engineered and Hardwood Flooring: Points to Consider
Canadian engineered hardwood and solid hardwood flooring are renowned for their high quality and durability. With the right care and installation, these floors can last for decades, adding timeless elegance to any home. Here are some things you need to know when buying and installing them.
1. Choosing the Right Type of Flooring
Selecting the right type of flooring is the first and most crucial step. Canadian engineered flooring and Canadian hardwood both have unique benefits. Engineered flooring, made of multiple layers of wood, is more stable and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for areas prone to humidity. On the other hand, solid hardwood offers unmatched beauty and can be refinished multiple times.
a. Canadian Engineered Flooring
Engineered flooring consists of a top layer of genuine hardwood and several layers of plywood or high-density fiberboard underneath. This construction makes it more stable and less prone to warping, especially in environments with fluctuating humidity levels.
b. Canadian Hardwood Flooring
Solid hardwood flooring is made from a single piece of wood. It offers a timeless look and can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan. This type of flooring is best suited for areas with stable humidity levels. It should be noted that this is not waterproof in any way.
2. Preparing Your Subfloor
A smooth, clean, and dry subfloor is essential for a successful flooring installation. Proper preparation can prevent many common issues, whether you are working with concrete, plywood, or an existing floor.
a. Cleaning and Levelling
Make sure your subfloor is free from debris, dust, and moisture. Use a level to check for any uneven areas and sand them down or fill them in as needed. A well-prepared subfloor will allow the flooring to lay flat and perform well.
b. Moisture Barriers
In areas prone to moisture, such as basements or bathrooms, it’s crucial to install a moisture barrier. This layer helps prevent water from seeping into the wood, reducing the risk of warping or mould growth.
3. Acclimating the Flooring
Acclimating your flooring is a step that shouldn’t be skipped. This process involves allowing the wood to adjust to your home’s humidity and temperature before installation.
a. Why Acclimation Matters
Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in humidity. Acclimating the flooring helps prevent issues like gaps, warping, or buckling after installation.
b. How to Acclimatize
Place the unopened boxes of flooring in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 hours. Ensure the room is in its normal living conditions, with the HVAC system running if applicable.
4. Installation Methods
There are several ways to install Canadian engineered and solid hardwood flooring, and the best depends on the flooring type and subfloor.
a. Nail-Down Method
This method is commonly used for solid hardwood. It involves nailing the boards directly to the subfloor and provides a secure hold but requires a wooden subfloor.
b. Glue-Down Method
Ideal for both engineered and solid hardwood, the glue-down method involves gluing the boards to the subfloor with a strong adhesive. This method is suitable for concrete subfloors.
c. Floating Floor Method
Engineered flooring can be installed as a floating floor, where the boards are attached to each other but not to the subfloor. This method is quick and can be installed over various subfloors, including your current flooring.
5. Waterproof Considerations
While no wood flooring is entirely waterproof, certain precautions can help make your Canadian engineered or hardwood flooring more water-resistant.
a. Waterproof Coatings
Opt for flooring with a waterproof coating, or consider applying one after installation. These coatings can help protect the wood from spills and moisture.
b. Proper Sealing
Ensure that all seams and edges are properly sealed during installation. This step is particularly important in areas prone to moisture, like kitchens or bathrooms.
6. Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is one key to extending the life of your flooring. Regular cleaning and timely repairs can keep your floors looking beautiful for years.
a. Cleaning Tips
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. Use a damp mop with a cleaner designed for wood floors, avoiding excess water.
b. Preventive Measures
Place mats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture tracked onto the floors. Use furniture pads to prevent scratches and consider area rugs in high-traffic areas.
7. Professional vs. DIY Installation
Deciding whether to install flooring yourself or to hire a professional can impact the overall result.
a. DIY Installation
Installing the flooring yourself can save money and be rewarding if you are handy and have the right tools. However, it requires time, patience, and precision.
b. Professional Installation
Hiring a professional guarantees that the job is done correctly and can save you potential headaches. They have the experience and tools to handle any issues during installation.
Installing Canadian engineered or hardwood flooring can be a transformative project for your home. By choosing the right type of flooring, preparing your subfloor, and acclimating the wood, among other strategies, you can ensure a successful and beautiful result. Remember, the effort you put in now will pay off in years of enjoyment and increased home value.
