Hardwood floors are becoming more and more popular, especially amongst younger, new homeowners who are looking to clear their new houses of ‘millennial greige’.
And while switching to hardwood brings a bit of classic charm to a home, it’s not as simple as just laying down your new floorboards.
From underlay to cutting and factoring in uneven corners, nooks and crannies, it is quite the process.
And while there are how-to and step-by-step guides everywhere, there is often more to it than just the process itself.
With that in mind, we have covered 5 tips to help you prepare for the shift from carpets to hardwood flooring.
The old saw in the garage will not cut it
The old rusty saw in the garage will not get those angled, clean cuts that you need, nor will it last throughout the entirety of the project.
If you’re cutting hardwood boards yourself, a jigsaw will save huge amounts of time, and a good amount of sweat.
Similarly, it’s best to look for quality sealants, measuring tools and finish to ensure that your new flooring project is being carried out correctly.
Stock up with the local experts
Local experts know best. Order your flooring from your local timber merchants and get helpful advice from an expert team that will ensure you are fully stocked and ready to go.
A lot of merchants even have rental services, meaning you can use the high quality tools that we mentioned, like jigsaws, without having to purchase them.
You might also get some helpful advice that is specific to your area – for example if you live in a particularly cold area, you might have to consider the expanding and contracting of wooden floors.
Invest in good socks for the winter
Hardwood floors look great; they are more environmentally friendly than carpet materials and add some charm to even modern homes – but they can also get cold.
Thankfully, this is easily dealt with with a comfy pair of fluffy socks.
Find a complementing wall colour
Wooden floors can work with just about any colour, but it’s best to have a colour scheme in mind when you are looking to switch to hardwood flooring.
Generally, warm colours go well with the natural brown and make a home feel nice and inviting.
To get an idea some companies like Dulux have visualiser tools, which serves as a sample without having to actually go out and buy – and then apply – tester paint.
Know your limitations
Laying hardwood decking is bordering on the more advanced side of DIY, so keep in mind there may be some aspects that you won’t be able to do yourself.
For example, switching from carpet to hardwood on a spiral staircase will likely require an experienced professional.
Take the project as far as you can, but when it’s time to pass it over to professionals, make sure that you do-so. The savings you make won’t be worth what you will lose in quality.
For more home guidance, Follow the Easy Home Improvement Blog
We have regular guides and articles about the world of DIY and home improvement going out on a regular basis.
Keep up with the blog so that once your hardwood project is complete you can get inspiration, guidance, and some handy tips on whatever comes next!
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