World Construction Symposium

Should You Install Hardwood Floors On Your Own?

11 January 2016 by Wallace Simmons

There are few home remodels that are more rewarding than new hardwood floors. Many people especially love modular hardwood floors because they are easy to self-install. If you don't need to pay a contractor to install your floor, you can make the project even more cost effective. Modular floors are relatively simple to install because they are designed to be installed with minimal tools and training. However, the work might be beyond your skill set if you have no practical construction experience. This article explains the tools and tasks that are involved with installing hardwood floors. It is meant to help you decide whether or not you can install hardwood floors on your own.

Using a Miter Saw

One of the most important tools for installing hardwood floors is a compound miter saw (also known as a table saw). If you already own and know how to use a table saw, you will almost certainly be able to install your own modular floor. However, if you don't own one, you will need to rent one. Of course, this can make the job a little more costly, so you need to take this all into consideration.

Other Tools You Need

Modular hardwood floor installation will require several more tools. For instance, you will need a rubber mallet, flooring adhesive, caulk gun, measuring tape, safety goggles, knee pads, and a utility knife. This materials list is short compared to other remodel jobs. So, if it overwhelms you, it is probably best to let professionals install your floor.

Physical Requirements of the Job

Perhaps the most important things to consider are the physical requirements of the job. Even if you have all the tools and knowledge to get the job done, it will do you no good if you are not able to do the physical work. Working on floors, by its very nature, requires you to constantly be bending up and down. You will spend a lot of time on your knees as you attach the flooring planks. This can be very stressful on your back and knees. In fact, if you have spinal or knee problems, you should probably not take on this project. Also, the job will go by much quicker if you have several physically-able helpers.

If you think that you can handle the physical requirements of the project, and you have access to all the right tools, you should not be afraid to install your own floor. To learn more, speak with someone like Matrix Construction Ltd.

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