How To Choose The Right Tools For Hardwood Floors

Nowadays many new homes have some type of hardwood flooring, either in the wide open living space and kitchen or throughout the home. They seem to be easier to take care of to some people. It really depends on that person and whether or not you actually like the look of hardwood, but most do. So, if you are wanting to put down hardwood flooring in your home, there are some tools you will need to install these floors.

You will need the hardwood flooring of course, because that is what you are trying to accomplish. Without it you will not get very far . A staple gun, vapor barrier paper, drill and different drill bits, hammer, chalk, tape measure, pry bar, pneumatic flooring package, that consists of an air compressor and hose, nail gun, mallet, and staples. You will also need a chop saw, table saw, nail set, hardwood flooring wood putty, earplugs and safety glasses. You should be ready to get down to business once you have all of these things. You will now need to know how to install these floors and how and when to use the tools.

Now you are ready to install the flooring once you have picked out the type and width for the room you are working on. Pull out your tape measure and measure the width and length of the room. Multiply to get the square footage, when you get your hardwood flooring make sure to get extra for irregular boards and any mistakes you may make cutting. You will also need to check your sub-flooring to make sure you are able to install the hardwood floors with no problems. Remove any molding around the room, sweep and clean the floors. Pull up carpet if you need to do that and have the floor ready to start laying your hardwood.

Once you have done that, you will need to put down your vapor paper, allowing 4 inches for overlap and staple to the sub-floor. Mark where your joist are located with a pencil so you will know. Start installing the hardwood at the longest unobstructed wall. Allow 3/8 of an inch from baseboard for expansion in hot weather and contraction in the colder weather.

Pick a long board to start the first row and align with the edge of your line you allowed for you expansion. Face nail each board, where every joist is and set nails with the nail-set. Keep board lengths random and make sure to use the face-nail on the first row. These way you don't push the boards back and lose your allowed inches.

You will continue to cut, connect, and nail your flooring into place. Once you have it all in place you will use your floor putty to cover up all the nail holes. Let the floor sit before you start moving in your furniture. Then enjoy your floors for years to come. They can really make a difference in your space and you will love the new look.

WARNING: Make sure that you use and follow all safety precautions when dealing with tools, power tools, and chemicals to prevent injuries or illnesses. Also wear the proper safety clothing when dealing with these items to prevent injuries.