How Long Does the Installation of Hardwood Flooring Take?

The Process of Hardwood Flooring Installation

Initial Consultation and Planning

Before any planks are cut, we recommend consulting with a Flooring Oxnard professional. This stage will set the foundation and the tone for a successful installation project. This involves measuring the space, discussing your vision, and selecting the appropriate hardwood.

• Duration: Typically 1-2 days

Acclimatization: Preparing the Hardwood

This is something that is not really talked about, but hardwood flooring must acclimate to your home's environment to prevent future warping or gaps. This process involves storing the wood in the installation area to adjust to the room's temperature and humidity levels.

• Duration: Generally 3-7 days

Here is what OldeWood Limited has to say "Acclimation times vary by species and product, but a rule of thumb is to acclimate wood floor products for at least three days. You’re trying to reach an equilibrium between the moisture content of the wood materials and the air where the product is being installed."

The Installation Process

Clearing and Prepping the Area

The first step involves removing existing flooring and ensuring the subfloor is clean, level, and ready for installation. This is a very important part of the process, as you do not want to have unleveled floors or squeaky ones for that matter.

• Duration: 1-2 days

Laying the Hardwood

The core phase of the project involves hardwood flooring contractors meticulously installing each plank, ensuring alignment, stability, and aesthetic appeal. Now, for the most part, most of the cutting of the hardwood floor should have been done, but on some occasions, a re-cut is needed to fit the wood perfectly at those angles.

• Duration: Depends on the size and complexity of the project, typically 1-5 days

Finishing Touches

Applying the finish to the hardwood is vital for protection and longevity. Options include oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, or natural oils, each requiring different drying times.

• Duration: 1-3 days for application, with additional drying time

Factors Influencing the Installation Timeline

Room Size and Layout Complexity

Larger areas and rooms with intricate layouts or numerous corners will extend the installation time; the more square footage the cover, the more time it takes. Oxnard Flooring excels in efficiently navigating these challenges.

Type of Hardwood

Pre-finished hardwood flooring can expedite the process, as it's ready to walk on immediately after installation. Unfinished hardwood, however, requires on-site finishing, adding to the timeline. There is more that goes into this, but we will save that for another blog spot, so stay tuned.

Existing Floor Removal

Removing old flooring can uncover issues that need addressing before installing new hardwood, or any floor for that matter. There could be a need for subfloor repairs or leveling, potentially extending the project duration. Again, this is crucial, so coordinate with your hardwood flooring contractor.

Pros and Cons of the Hardwood Installation Timeline

Pros

• Transformational Impact: Hardwood floors can dramatically enhance the beauty and value of your home. Reach out to your local real estate professional so you can get more insight on that.
• Durability: Hardwood floors can last for decades with proper installation and care. This type of wood floor can be passed on from generation to generation.

Cons

• Temporary Inconvenience: The installation process may require you to vacate the space temporarily, which could disrupt daily routines. Depending on if you are doing the entire house, you might need to get a hotel room for a couple of days. Talk to your hardwood flooring contractor about this before the installation begins.
• Investment of Time: The duration from planning to completion requires patience and flexibility.

Chart Example: Hardwood Flooring Installation Timeline