Hi,
I'm considering replacing the upstairs carpeting with hardwood flooring similar to what I have downstairs (2 1/4" red oak - 3/4"). I'm hiring a friend that feels confident he can do this. He's somewhat of a handyman but has concerns about doing the work to my satisfaction. It's about 1,500 square feet and there is a 40'-50' run (master bedroom - hallway - playroom) where the boards would run the entire length. If you're off a fraction in that initial board - it will be noticeable by the time you get to the other end. There are doors between the bedroom/playroom that I though could have a transition area. A piece of oak that runs at a right angle to the floor boards. That would allow for a 'reset' if the angles were off. Start at the far end of the house and work back. I'm in no rush and would be fine with plywood floors until the job was done (or I could pull the carpet as each part of the project moves forward).
Also, has anyone purchased Bruce flooring from the big box stores? I'm concerned about getting a lot of smaller pieces vs. longer pieces that would be cut to size.
Any other comments about installing hardwood floors? I do know that I'd get the flooring a few weeks in advance and let it sit in the house to acclimate. I'd also make sure to choose boards from different boxes as the floor was being laid.
Thanks!
I'm considering replacing the upstairs carpeting with hardwood flooring similar to what I have downstairs (2 1/4" red oak - 3/4"). I'm hiring a friend that feels confident he can do this. He's somewhat of a handyman but has concerns about doing the work to my satisfaction. It's about 1,500 square feet and there is a 40'-50' run (master bedroom - hallway - playroom) where the boards would run the entire length. If you're off a fraction in that initial board - it will be noticeable by the time you get to the other end. There are doors between the bedroom/playroom that I though could have a transition area. A piece of oak that runs at a right angle to the floor boards. That would allow for a 'reset' if the angles were off. Start at the far end of the house and work back. I'm in no rush and would be fine with plywood floors until the job was done (or I could pull the carpet as each part of the project moves forward).
Also, has anyone purchased Bruce flooring from the big box stores? I'm concerned about getting a lot of smaller pieces vs. longer pieces that would be cut to size.
Any other comments about installing hardwood floors? I do know that I'd get the flooring a few weeks in advance and let it sit in the house to acclimate. I'd also make sure to choose boards from different boxes as the floor was being laid.
Thanks!