Right before the holidays is one of the most popular times for renovations, but it might not be the best time to install hardwood floors. Unfortunately, unscrupulous companies know you’ve got a timeline in mind and will use it to talk you into rushed jobs. Just remember, you’ll depend on the results for years, so it makes sense to do it right the first time.
Consider the Best Time to Install Hardwood Floors
Because wood is a porous material, it absorbs moisture from the air and building surfaces. This means certain seasons – like spring – present more problems for wood floor installers. During those seasons, it’s possible to do a safe and high-quality job that results in long-term performance, but it’s more difficult, and there is more potential for something to go wrong.
Generally speaking, fall is one of the best times to install wood flooring because the season tends to have fewer issues with precipitation or high humidity. It’s in demand for this reason, but also because the coming holidays put people in the mood to create a warm, inviting environment for guests. Few floor coverings do that like the allure of real wood.
Plan Your Wood Floor Installation Around Other Contractors
For those property owners who are having several services done at once – putting up fresh drywall, installing kitchen cabinets or interior painting – it’s essential to schedule your wood floor installation for after the other jobs are complete. They need time to dry or set.
Even wet paint can throw off the humidity in a home enough to affect planks of real wood flooring. According to the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), indoor moisture should stay between 30 and 60 percent. That’s easier to control after installation of the HVAC system, for instance, or after all the tiling in the kitchen is complete.
Additionally, it also easier to prevent accidents – like gouges or paint splatters – once all the other workers are out of the way.
Wait for the Best Time to Install Hardwood Floors to Enjoy Lasting Results
There are plenty of independent or inexperienced contractors who will promise you a speedy wood floor installation without any concern for the future look, feel or sound of your floor. They don’t care if poorly acclimated planks wind up squeaking and groaning five years down the road.
Atlanta Floors has a good reputation because we care enough to be honest about the wait. We know certain types of natural wood will take longer to acclimate, for instance, or that we’ll need extra time to lower humidity to make the install safe for your investment.
Still confused over the best time to install hardwood floors? Contact our team at Atlanta Floors, one of the area’s leading wood floor contractors, to ensure you enjoy the lasting benefits of a job well done.
