When is the Best Time to Install Hardwood Floors?
There are a lot of factors you need to consider before starting a renovation project, including your budget, materials, layouts and installation. Most homeowners are aware of these steps; however, when it comes to hardwood floors, there is one other factor you must consider before the installation process and that is the season during which you plan on completing your renovations.
The reason this aspect is important is because seasonal temperatures can affect the results of your new floors. If you’re planning on installing new hardwood flooring, fall is the best time and here are the reasons why:
Too much moisture during spring and summer
Hardwood floors can be installed any time and doing it in the fall is not mandatory, although the cooler temperatures this season provides make it the ideal time for hardwood flooring installation. This is especially true if you live in a humid climate because wood absorbs moisture as it is highly porous. So, if you complete your installation in the summer or spring, you run the risk of your floors becoming vulnerable to distortion because of the high humidity levels. Fall, on the other hand, is cool and crisp and this type of weather will result in less exposure to moisture, which is why it is ideal.
Homes lose moisture during the winter
Heating units result in a drying effect as well as lower moisture levels, and for these reasons, winter is not the best time to complete your hardwood flooring installation. One problem you may encounter is your floor absorbing moisture during the installation process, after which it can dry up during the winter causing your swollen floorboards to pull apart. This type of damage is often referred to as a cupping effect and is common whenever the installation takes place during the winter, so be mindful of this aspect. Installing your new flooring during fall will not only minimize this cupping effect but will decrease the risk of your floors absorbing unnecessary moisture as well. Additionally, the dry air coming from your heaters will not affect your wooden planks, so that’s another thing you won’t have to worry about if your renovations are done during the fall.
Adhesives require specific temperatures you will only get in the fall
Adhesives are often part of the installation process and in order for them to be effective, the temperature must be within a certain range. Your air conditioner will most likely put your home outside of that range in the summer and the cooler temperatures might prevent the drying and bonding of your floors in the winter.
Touchtone Canada can help with all of your home renovation needs, and we can install hardwood floors during any season, as long as the humidity and temperature levels in your home are adequate; contact us to learn about the proper humidity temperature levels you will need before your hardwood floor installation. We specialize in residential and commercial flooring as well as interior design, so if you are in the Edmonton area and want to add beauty to your home, give us a call now!