Installation of hardwood flooring
You want a problem-free installation and, to help ensure it, here's a checklist of things to do before the installer arrives.
Let the Wood Acclimate
Hardwood needs time to adjust to the temperature and humidity of your home before it gets installed. Most manufacturers recommend letting the flooring sit in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 to 72 hours. Skipping this step can lead to gaps or buckling down the road as the wood adjusts after the fact.
Clear the Space
Move furniture, rugs, and anything else out of the rooms being done before your installer arrives. The more cleared out the space is, the faster and cleaner the installation goes. If you have large or heavy pieces that need help moving, sort that out ahead of time so it is not a surprise on installation day.
Check Your Subfloor
The subfloor needs to be clean, dry, and level before hardwood goes down. Any moisture issues or significant dips and humps in the subfloor should be addressed beforehand. A good installer will check this, but it helps to be aware of any known problem areas in advance so nothing slows things down.
Make Sure Your Materials Are Ready
This one sounds obvious, but it is worth saying. Having your flooring and any necessary supplies on hand and accounted for before your installer shows up keeps the project on schedule. Running out for materials mid-installation costs time and momentum.
Know What to Expect Afterward
Once the floors are in, give the finish time to fully settle before sliding furniture back into place or putting heavy rugs down. Your installer will give you specific guidance, but a little patience at the end of the project protects all the work that went into it.
Need Help Finding a Trusted Installer?
At Nantahala, we connect our customers with experienced local installers who know what they are doing. Our in-stock inventory means your materials are ready when your installer is, keeping timelines tight and projects moving. We are also expanding into full turnkey installation services for anyone who wants a seamless, start-to-finish experience.
Whether you are a homeowner who just picked out your floors and needs a next step, or a contractor looking for a dependable supply and install partner, we are here to help make it easy. Stop by our showroom at 301 Depot St in Franklin, NC, Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4:30PM, or give us a call at (828) 369-1200.