Hardwood Installation - Factors To Consider

There are many things to take into consideration during a hardwood installation project. Of these considerations, one of the more important ones, for example, is the direction that the flooring planks will be laid. In this article, we will outline a few factors that you may want to ponder prior to making a decision. 

Front Door

If your project is taking place in the front room of the house, considerations should be made in regard to the placement of the front door. In most cases, installations are done perpendicular to the door, in which case you will be able to view the boards flowing in the same direction you are facing when walking through the door. Though this rule is up for debate, it does give you a good starting point. 

Natural Light

Another aspect worth considering is the direction by which natural light enters the home. In many cases, this will be the same direction as if you were to abide by the previous rule, though if these aspects conflict, you may want to choose to run the wood in the direction of the light. Boards that are installed against the light source lose a little of the special something that makes wood flooring so appealing. Running boards against the light allows you to see the little cracks and joints in the floor, as opposed to one solid piece. 

Floor Joists

In cases where the hardwood installation is taking place over a wood sub floor, you will be required to take the floor joists into account. These joists are what keep the sub floor in its correct place. Consider installing your boards perpendicularly against the joists. If you decide to go with the direction of the joists, the weight of the wood on top of the sub floor could cause it to sag over a period of time, and when floors are not level, it can buckle and crack. 

Room Size and Hallways

Take the size of the rooms in which your hardwood installation will take place into account. Rooms which are rectangular or square can be run in either direction. For narrow rooms and hallways, you may decide it best to lay the boards the long width. Running across on a hallway floor can sometimes cause a ladder-type effect. 

If you have any doubts as to what to do regarding your hardwood installation, you may also decide to contact a professional for a consultation. These companies provide services exclusively to those looking to install hardwood flooring, and can better provide recommendations, or even do the work for you.