AboutDave Coil Expertise I can help. I have installed wood, laminates, tile, marble, ceramics, vinyl, and painted applications. I have done some stone work, but that is seldom used anymore.
Experience My first work was in flooring and interior designs. My first job... every room of the house was a different color of walls and carpet. It can work...
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Followup To
Question -
Dear Dave:
My wife and I are considering real wood floors for our home. This would be on one level and includes living/dining room, kitchen with eating area and is about 600sq. ft. We have priced out some cherrywood tongue and groove but with the installation costs it exceeds our budget.
My question is: How hard would it be for me to do the installation myself? The house is a well built home that is about 14 years old. The subfloor is covered with plywood. I am reasonably handy and have done a number of building projects in our homes ranging from very large and complicated outdoor decks to basement renovations and other small home projects.
Thanks,
Ron
Answer -
Sorry this took so long. If this is prefinished flooring you should have no trouble. Install kraft paper over your subfloor prior to your new flooring. Mark your joists for the nail pattern. This is a vapor barrier and insulation factor. Next, remove as much as you can from the area. Baseboards, appliances, cabinets, doors, etc. Make the easiest possible approach and remove unwanted cuts. Inspect EACH plank before installing. Maching errors can mess up a good job, after being installed. Pre drill you nail holes so not to break out the tongue. Take your time... do not get in a hurry.
Dave:
Thanks for the reply. Not sure I understand "Make the easiest possible approach and remove unwanted cuts". When you suggest drilling the nail holes, do you mean all nail holes? I was planning to rent a nailing machine that is for installing wood floors.
Thanks,
Ron
Answer This info is from an Older carpenter. I have learned repeatedly the hard way. Yes I have used the power nailers....Not happy with them. I can do a better job, which beats a faster job, by hand nailing and predrilling as needed. I am into it for quality and long term performance. Think of it like this. When you predrill and have to drive the nail with several strokes.... each stroke pushes the boards tighter together. With the power "one shot" nailers...If it didnt get tight... it wont. I think I may have had a typo.... Make the easiest....Take the easiest. To qualify slightly...the predrilled hole is slightly smaller than the nail.... still creating resistance on the drive.
