What to Expect During Hardwood Floor Installation

It starts with a measure and assessment: the pro checks subfloor flatness, tests moisture over slabs and crawlspaces, and confirms the species and layout. Then the material is delivered to your home to acclimate — usually 3–5 days — so the wood reaches equilibrium with your indoor humidity. Skipping acclimation is the single most common cause of gapping and cupping later.

The crew clears and protects the space, removes old flooring if needed, and preps the subfloor — sanding high spots, filling lows, and screwing down squeaks. Boards are then racked to mix grain and color before fastening by nail, glue, or float depending on the product. Correct expansion gaps at the walls are left so the floor can move with the seasons.

Transitions, thresholds, stair nosing, and shoe molding are installed, the floor is cleaned, and you walk it with the installer. If the floor is site-finished rather than prefinished, sanding and finish coats add a few days and require the home to stay clear while coats cure.