Installing hardwood floors looks like a satisfying DIY project. You might think: “I’ve handled other home improvements, how hard can this be?” But when it comes to hardwood flooring, there’s a fine line between a rewarding project and a costly mistake.
Many Colorado Springs homeowners ask: Can I install hardwood floors myself and still get professional-quality results?
At High Plains Flooring & Blinds, we often meet homeowners who start with DIY intentions, but realize mid-stage that professional flooring installation saves time, money and stress. Today, we’ll explore what it takes to install hardwood floors yourself, the risks involved and when calling in a professional makes more sense.
What Hardwood Floor Installation Really Involves
Hardwood flooring installation is more difficult than you think. Here’s a basic overview of the process:
- Subfloor Preparation: The subfloor should be level, clean and moisture-free before installation begins.
- Acclimation: Wood has to sit in your home for several days to adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room. Skipping this step can lead to gaps or buckling later.
- Laying Out and Cutting Boards: Precise measuring, cutting and alignment are essential for professional results.
- Nailing or Gluing Boards in Place: Each type of hardwood needs specific tools and techniques.
- Sanding, Staining and Finishing: This is one of the most labor-intensive steps that determines the final appearance of your floor.
Sometimes, homeowners can handle engineered or click-together planks. However, traditional hardwood installation requires specialized tools and experience. Otherwise, DIY installation can result in uneven boards, gaps or cracked finishes.
At High Plains Flooring & Blinds, our team of certified installers follow a precise process that takes Colorado’s unique elevation and humidity levels into account. When you choose professional flooring contractors, your hardwood floors will look beautiful and perform at their best for decades.
Challenges of DIY Hardwood Installation
DIY hardwood flooring installation looks appealing at first glance. You do everything yourself and save some money. Easy right? That’s definitely not the case. Homeowners often run into the following obstacles:
- Colorado’s Climate: The region’s dry air means wood has to acclimate properly. Otherwise, planks can shrink, crack or separate.
- Tools and Precision: You will need nailers, saws, sanders, spacers and moisture meters. That doesn’t even cover the skills you need to use them.
- Hidden Costs: Mistakes can lead to wasted materials, which can cost you even more when you call a professional for help.
- Time Commitment: A weekend project can quickly turn into weeks of labor and cleanup.
Think twice before you start a challenging DIY project. If you’re ever unsure, we’re here for you. Our certified installers will get it right the first time around. We handle everything from subfloor preparation to finishing touches so your investment lasts you a lifetime.
The Pros and Cons of DIY Hardwood Flooring Installation
Installing your own hardwood flooring has its advantages and disadvantages. You have to take both into account when it comes time to install your new flooring.
Let’s start with the benefits:
- Possible savings on labor costs
- Personal satisfaction of a DIY project
- Flexibility to work at your own pace
However, like many things, there are some downsides:
- Risk of uneven boards or gaps
- Potential to void product warranties
- No access to professional-grade tools or finishes
- Difficult to to maintain consistency in sanding or staining
When you live in Colorado Springs, you have to be careful. The dryness and elevation can cause the wood to expand and contract. In other words, small avoidable flooring mistakes can easily turn into long-term issues like squeaky boards or premature wear.
Why Professional Installation is a Safer Bet
Professional hardwood floor installation goes beyond just being convenient. It also provides precision, longevity and peace of mind. Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Certified Expertise: Professional installers adapt their technique to Colorado’s unique environment.
- Quality and Consistency: Every plank gets time to acclimate, is leveled and secured for lasting results.
- Warranties and Guarantees: Professional installation keeps your warranty intact, protecting your investment for years to come.
- Time Efficiency: Homeowners might take weeks to complete their flooring projects. Meanwhile, certified installers can have your new floors ready in a few days.
Local homeowners turn to High Plains Flooring & Blinds to save money long-term. Our team of certified installers will provide hardwood installations backed by warranties so your floors look beautiful and perform without the DIY headaches.
When DIY Might Work and When It Won’t
DIY installation has its time and place. Consider it if you’re dealing with the following:
- You’re using engineered hardwood or click-together planks.
- You’re covering a small, low-traffic space like an office or guest room.
- You’re experienced with carpentry and have the right tools.
Despite this, DIY hardwood installation isn’t for everyone. We don’t recommend it in these situations:
- You’re installing solid hardwood that requires sanding and staining.
- Your home has uneven subfloors or humidity fluctuations.
- You want a long-term investment that adds resale value.
Still deciding what type of hardwood fits your home? Our flooring specialists in Pueblo West and Fountain can help you choose between solid hardwood or engineered hardwood flooring options so you can find one that fits your space, budgets and goals.
DIY vs. Professional: Making the Right Choice
Can you install hardwood floors yourself? Technically, yes, but should you? For most Colorado Springs homeowners, no, unless you’re highly skilled and have the right equipment. At High Plains Flooring & Blinds, we understand that hardwood flooring is a long-term investment. That’s why we recommend professional installation services.
Ready to upgrade your floors. Contact us or visit our showroom in Pueblo West or Fountain today!
