Hardwood Floor Installation 101: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Hardwood floors are a timeless favourite for homeowners across the country—and good reason. They bring warmth, beauty, and long-lasting value to any home. If you’re thinking about upgrading your flooring, installing hardwood might be one of the smartest decisions you’ll ever make.

But before you dive into the process, it’s important to understand how hardwood floor installation works, what to expect, and how to choose the right contractor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from preparation to maintenance—so you can feel confident about your flooring investment.

Let’s get started.

Why Choose Hardwood Floors?

Before we talk installation, it’s worth understanding why hardwood flooring continues to be such a popular choice:

Timeless Appeal: Whether your home is traditional, modern, or a blend of both, hardwood flooring blends well with any style.
Durability: When properly cared for, hardwood floors can last decades, even generations.
Easy to Clean: Unlike carpet, hardwood doesn’t trap allergens or dirt. A quick sweep and occasional mop keep things looking great.
Boosts Home Value: Hardwood floors are a selling point. They’re attractive to buyers and can significantly increase the resale value of your home.

What Types of Hardwood Flooring Are There?

There are two main types of hardwood flooring you can install in your home:

1. Solid Hardwood

Made from a single piece of wood, solid hardwood is sturdy, long-lasting, and can be refinished multiple times. It’s perfect for rooms with stable humidity levels, like living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms.

2. Engineered Hardwood

This type consists of a real hardwood veneer on top of layers of plywood. It’s more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it ideal for basements, kitchens, and even bathrooms.

Whichever you choose, McCaman hardwood flooring offers both options in a variety of wood species, finishes, and stains to fit any aesthetic.

The Hardwood Floor Installation Process

Installing hardwood flooring isn’t just about laying down planks. It’s a detailed process that requires careful planning and skilled workmanship. Here’s a step-by-step look at how it works.

Step 1: Choose Your Wood

Do you want the warm, classic look of oak? Or the sleek, contemporary feel of maple or walnut? The type of wood you choose will affect your room’s look and feel—as well as your budget.

McCaman hardwood flooring offers a wide range of wood species and finishes to help you find the perfect match for your style and lifestyle.

Step 2: Measure the Space

Before installation begins, professionals will measure your room(s) to determine how much material is needed. It’s always wise to order about 10% extra to account for cutting and waste.

Step 3: Prepare the Subfloor

A clean, level subfloor is critical. Installers will inspect the subfloor to ensure it’s flat, dry, and stable. If there’s any unevenness, it must be corrected before installation begins.

Step 4: Acclimate the Wood

Hardwood needs time to adjust to the climate of your home. Your flooring should be brought into the house and allowed to sit (usually for 3-7 days) so it can acclimate to your home’s temperature and humidity.

Step 5: Installation Begins

Depending on the product and subfloor, installers may use one of several methods:

Nailing: Common for solid hardwood on wooden subfloors.
Gluing: Often used for engineered hardwood or installations over concrete.
Floating: Involves clicking or gluing planks together over underlayment, not attached to the subfloor.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once the planks are in place, transitions, baseboards, and shoe molding are installed to give everything a clean, polished look. If you opted for unfinished wood, sanding and staining will follow.

Tips for a Smooth Installation Experience

To get the most out of your hardwood floor installation, keep these tips in mind:

✅ Hire a Professional

DIY hardwood installation can be tempting, but it’s not as simple as it looks. Improper installation can lead to gaps, buckling, and costly repairs. Hiring an experienced contractor like McCaman hardwood flooring ensures quality results that last.

✅ Clear the Space

Before your installation team arrives, remove all furniture, rugs, and fragile items from the area. This saves time and prevents accidents.

✅ Plan for the Unexpected

Sometimes hidden issues like water damage or an uneven subfloor can delay a project. Budget extra time and money just in case.

✅ Be Mindful of Humidity

Hardwood expands and contracts with moisture. Use a humidifier in the winter and a dehumidifier in the summer to maintain ideal conditions (around 35-55% humidity).

How Much Does Hardwood Floor Installation Cost?

Costs can vary depending on the type of wood, the size of your space, and your location. On average, you might expect to pay:

$6–$12 per square foot for materials
$3–$8 per square foot for installation

While this might be more expensive upfront than other flooring options, the long-term benefits and value-added to your home make hardwood a smart investment.

For personalized estimates, reach out to McCaman hardwood flooring for a consultation tailored to your project.

Caring for Your New Hardwood Floors

Once your floors are installed, proper maintenance is key to keeping them looking beautiful.

✅ Daily Cleaning

Sweep or vacuum regularly using a soft-bristle broom or hardwood-friendly vacuum to remove dust and grit that can scratch the surface.

✅ Avoid Water Damage

Wipe up spills immediately and never use a soaking-wet mop. Excess water can seep into seams and damage the wood.

✅ Protect High-Traffic Areas

Use rugs or mats in entryways, and felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents.

✅ Refinishing

Over time, your hardwood floors may show signs of wear. Refinishing can restore their original beauty and extend their life for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s face it—installing hardwood floors isn’t cheap. Avoid these common pitfalls to protect your investment:

Skipping Acclimation: This can lead to warping or gapping.
Choosing the Wrong Wood: Some wood types aren’t suited for certain climates or rooms.
Ignoring Moisture Levels: Moisture is hardwood’s worst enemy.
Hiring Unqualified Installers: Bad installation = big problems down the line.

Choosing a trusted name like McCaman hardwood flooring ensures these details are handled with care and precision.

Why Choose McCaman Hardwood Flooring?

When it comes to hardwood flooring, experience matters. McCaman hardwood flooring has built a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship, superior materials, and customer-first service.

Here’s why homeowners trust McCaman:

Locally trusted and family-owned
Wide selection of wood styles and finishes
Certified, experienced installers
Transparent pricing and clear communication
Excellent post-installation support

Whether you’re installing in one room or your entire home, McCaman brings professionalism, skill, and peace of mind to every project.

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FAQs

1. How long does hardwood floor installation take?

It depends on the size of the space and the type of flooring. On average, expect 3–7 days for a full installation, not including acclimation or finishing time if the wood is unfinished.

2. Can hardwood floors be installed over concrete?

Yes! Engineered hardwood is ideal for installation over concrete subfloors. It’s more stable than solid wood and better suited for areas with moisture concerns. Talk to a professional at McCaman hardwood flooring to explore your options.

3. What’s the best way to clean hardwood floors?

Use a microfiber mop or soft-bristle broom to sweep regularly. For deeper cleaning, use a hardwood floor cleaner approved by the manufacturer. Avoid harsh chemicals and never wet-mop your floors.

Final Thoughts

Installing hardwood floors is a big decision—but one that can truly transform your home. With the right materials, expert installation, and proper care, you’ll enjoy stunning, durable flooring that stands the test of time.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact McCaman hardwood flooring. Their team is here to help you choose the perfect wood, guide you through installation, and make the process smooth from start to finish.

Your dream floors are just one step away.