When buying or installing hardwood floors, one of the usual questions is how long it takes to Install them. If you are a commercial property owner, developer, or contractor, understanding the process of hardwood floor installation is essential. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the time it takes to install hardwood floors.
How Long Does It Take to Install Hardwood Floors
Installing hardwood floors usually comes in three main parts: site preparation, flooring Installation, and polishing and sealing.
Site preparation:
This involves preparing the area for the new flooring, which may include removing old flooring and fixing or leveling the subfloor.
Flooring installation:
This is the process of laying down the hardwood floor, including cutting and fitting the planks.
Polishing and sealing:
This step includes sanding the floor to smooth it out and applying a finish to protect and enhance the wood.”
Site preparation can range from 1 – 10 days, depending on the condition of the existing floor and the requirement for subfloor preparation. The installation of hardwood floors includes the whole process; however, it can easily take one to three days for a typical house room.
Lastly, sanding the floor and adding the finish usually takes one to two more days. Other things that can change the time include the size of the area, the type of hardwood, the condition of the subfloor, any changes you want, and adding accessories or trim.
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Factors That Affect Hardwood Flooring Installation Time
Below are factors that affect hardwood flooring installation time. Understanding these factors is essential to knowing how long your project will take and to plan accordingly.
Area Size:
Usually, the size of the area is the main factor in how long the installation will take. Larger areas require more time to complete rather than the smaller ones. However, it can also depend on the installer’s experience; the more experienced they are, the faster your work will be finished.
Hardwood type:
The type of hardwood you choose can also affect the installation time. Some types of hardwood are more complex to install than others because of factors like thickness, hardness, and structure.
Condition Of The Subfloor:
“The condition of the subfloor is essential for the installation process. If it’s uneven, damaged, or needs many repairs, completing the installation can take longer. Fixing or replacing a subfloor usually ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the damage and materials needed.
Professional installers need to ensure the subfloor is clean, flat, and strong before starting the hardwood installation. This may include leveling, patching, or fixing the subfloor to prepare it for the new flooring.
Modifications:
Modifications such as intricate patterns or designs can also affect the installation time. Because they require careful attention, these changes take more time and should be made by a professional.
Also, inlays, borders, and other decorative details need careful planning and work to fit well with the design. Make sure to include time for these custom features when planning the project.
Trimming
The last part of installing hardwood floors is adding accessories and trim, like baseboards, transitions, and molding. These finishing details make the space look better, but they can also take more time. Installing baseboards costs $1 to $6 per foot, depending on the material and the complexity of the job.
Changes between different floors or levels require careful measuring and cutting to ensure a smooth look. When planning the installation, be sure to allow enough time for accessories and trim.
What is the average time to install hardwood floors?
The average time of installing hardwood floors is mentioned below. Remember that these are average times, and they can be changed by the factors mentioned above.
Small to Medium Rooms:
A small to medium room, like a bedroom or office, usually takes 1 to 3 days to finish. This includes putting down the floor, sanding, and finishing. Time can change based on the room and type of wood.
Large Rooms or Open Spaces:
Big rooms or open areas may take 3 to 5 days to fit the floor correctly. Larger spaces, like a big living room or kitchen, require more time.
Whole House Installation:
Installing hardwood floors in the whole house can take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the number of rooms and their size. More rooms or tricky layouts may take longer.
These are average times, but the actual time can change based on room size, type of floor, and other factors.
How to Choose the Right Hardwood Flooring Contractor:
Choosing the right hardwood flooring contractor has a significant impact on the timing of your project.
Here’s how to choose the right contractor for your hardwood floor installation project.
Experience and Reputation
An experienced contractor can handle problems easily and deliver good results
Look for Experience:
An experienced contractor knows how to handle different wood types and resolve any issues that appear during the project.
Check Reviews:
Reading online reviews or asking for references ensures you work with a contractor consistently, delivering quality results.
Knowledge of Flooring Options
A skilled contractor will guide you in selecting the best flooring and make sure it’s installed properly for lasting quality.
Wood Knowledge:
A good contractor helps you choose the right hardwood based on durability, style, and budget.
Installation Expertise:
They should understand proper installation techniques, including sanding and finishing, to ensure long-lasting results.
Timeline and Flexibility
A good contractor sticks to the schedule and can adjust quickly if any unexpected problems arise.
Set a time frame:
Agree on a realistic project timeline and ensure the contractor meets it.
Adaptability:
The contractor should be able to handle any unexpected issues without causing significant delays.
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Conclusion:
The time it takes to install hardwood floors depends on room size, type of wood, subfloor condition, and any other details. Small rooms usually take 1 to 3 days, larger rooms take 3 to 5 days, and installing throughout a whole house can take 1 to 3 weeks. Be sure to consider time for preparation, installation, and finishing. Hire an experienced contractor who can follow your schedule and fix any issues to keep things going smoothly.
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FAQs:
Q1: Can I walk on hardwood floors right after they are installed?
A: It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before walking on freshly installed hardwood floors. This gives the adhesive or finish time to set correctly. For floors with a finish, avoid heavy traffic for a few days to let everything cure. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.
Q2: Do I need to move furniture before installing hardwood floors?
A: You should move furniture out of the room before installing hardwood floors. This clears the space for the installers and prevents damage to your furniture or the new floors. Removing any rugs or smaller items from the area is also a good idea.
Q3: Will there be any delays during hardwood floor installation?
A: Delays during hardwood floor installation can happen but are usually avoidable. Common reasons for delays include issues with delivery (such as wrong or damaged materials), unexpected subfloor problems, or moisture concerns. It’s a good idea to plan and allow extra time if any issues arise.
Q4: What affects how long it takes to install hardwood floors?
A: The time it takes to install hardwood floors depends on the room size, subfloor condition, wood type, and installation method. Larger rooms, complex subfloor issues, or acclimation needs can add time. The installation method, such as glue-down versus floating floors, also affects how long it takes. On average, installation takes one to three days.
