Hardwood is one of the most popular flooring materials, revered for its beauty, longevity, and easy day-to-day maintenance. While hardwood flooring can last a lifetime, installing it can be a complicated process. Here are the main steps you and your flooring contractor will need to take before installing your new floors.

5 Steps to Prepare for Hardwood Flooring 

1. Clear Out Belongings

Remove all of your appliances and furniture from the room, as well as area rugs. If you need help moving heavy or cumbersome items, ask your flooring contractor for a hand. Take down sconces, floating shelves, hanging pictures, mirrors, and put them in a safe place.

2. Dust-Proof the Area

Installing new floors can produce a significant amount of dust. While your contractor will do their best to contain it, you can help as well. Close off doors to nearby rooms and tape plastic to the outside to seal off entryways. You might also want to cover furniture and other belongings that could potentially get dusty.

3. Evaluate the Space

The contractor will cut the floorboards to suit your space. To accomplish this, they’ll need to do a walk-through and evaluate the room’s unique aspects. This includes measuring outlets or the fireplace, as well as taking note of the shape of the room’s corners.

4. Remove Doors, Baseboards & Trims

Your flooring contractor will need to remove the doors, baseboards, and trim to ensure the new hardwood fits perfectly. If your home has tall baseboards, the contractor may remove the base shoe molding, rather than the entire baseboard.

You can reuse or replace the molding, depending on its condition. Make sure there is a designated space where the contractor can stow items until the installation is complete.

5. Prepare the Subfloor

After removing the old flooring, the contractor will prepare the subfloor. It needs to be flat and smooth to ensure the new floor settles perfectly. If the existing subfloor has several dips or other notable flaws, the contractor may recommend installing a new subfloor.

If you’re a Monroe County, NY, resident interested in transforming your living space with new hardwood flooring, turn to General’s Hardwood Flooring. Based in Webster, this licensed and insured company has been the community’s go-to hardwood flooring contractor for more than 16 years. Call (585) 303-5704 to speak with a friendly staff member to discuss your vision. Or visit the website to see examples of their work and learn more about the services they provide.