When you decide to look for hardwood flooring there are a few tips that can help you make the experience a lot less stressful and less work.
First tip might sound obvious but it still amazes me that people do not shop around. By shopping around, I don’t mean spending hours walking around flooring outlets. Simply use the rule of three, this means getting three prices for the hardwood that you are interested in. I have found three price quotes is more than enough to give you a good overview of the market. There are only so many stores and they are all competing against each other.
The second tip is to do a bit of research online before you start looking to buy, this gives you a good idea of the market and will prepare you for the pricing you can expect in store. This will also help you stick to the budget, so you do not overspend.
The third bit of advice involves a bit of math, by this I mean know your sizes before you go to buy any hardwood flooring. There is nothing worse than finding the flooring you want but you don’t know your room sizes, it could mean you miss out on a great deal or worse you end up buying too much or too little wood for your floor. So take the time before you leave home and measure up the areas required.
The fourth tip is to take a good-sized vehicle and some help with you when you go to buy your flooring. If in doubt about lifting heavy loads don’t, seek assistance or see if the store will deliver your flooring. It might cost you to get it delivered, but better that than risking your health. Hardwood usually comes boxed and if you need a few boxes, then it is going to be heavy. So you will need help loading up and taking it out. Also remember your car will need to support you and a heavy load of wood, so check the seats fold down and that the suspension is in good working order.
My fifth tip is to remember the extras. Hardwood flooring may come boxed and ready to put down, but you will also need underlay and beading. If you plan to fit the flooring yourself, prepare the room in advance and make sure the room is cleared of any furniture or other potential hazards.
My last tip is hiring someone else to fit the flooring. Unless you are in the industry, or an enthusiast, I still think it is worth paying someone to do a good professional job. Ask friends or family to recommend a good floor layer and of course get three quotes for the cost to lay the flooring. I honestly think spending a few extra dollars to get your hardwood flooring fitted properly is worth every penny, the job will be done right and will look great. Why spend all that money on good quality hardwood,only to cut up in to pieces!