London:

Nationwide:

Floor Polishing Service
25,000+
Floors Restored
Residential Sanding Service
27 Years Experience
Floor Renovation Service
Wood Flooring Association Certified

DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Installation

Posted on May 2, 2023

Floor Sanding Services News

DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Installation: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Hardwood floors are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to elevate their home’s appearance and value. These floors offer both style and environmental benefits due to their recyclable nature. When it comes to installation, some homeowners enjoy taking on the challenge themselves, while others prefer hiring professionals, including floor sanding services. In this 3,000-word blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of both DIY and professional hardwood floor installation, helping you make an informed decision for your home improvement project. DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Installation

I. DIY Hardwood Floor Installation

 

A. Advantages of DIY Installation

 
  1. Cost Savings Undoubtedly, one of the most significant advantages of installing hardwood floors yourself is the cost savings. Professional installation can be expensive, and doing the work yourself can save you a considerable amount of money on labour costs.
  2. Personal Satisfaction There is a sense of accomplishment and pride in completing a home improvement project yourself. Successfully installing your hardwood floors can provide you with a gratifying sense of achievement.
  3. Customization When you install hardwood floors yourself, you have complete control over the project. You can choose the type of wood and the installation method and make adjustments as needed to suit your preferences.
 

B. Disadvantages of DIY Installation

 
  1. Time and effort Installing hardwood floors is a labour-intensive task that requires a significant investment of time and effort. If you’re inexperienced or have a full-time job, it may be challenging to complete the project efficiently.
  2. Skill Level Hardwood floor installation requires a certain level of skill and experience. Mistakes can lead to uneven floors, gaps, or damage to the flooring, which can be costly to fix.
  3. Lack of Warranty Professional installation services often come with a warranty that covers their work. If you install the floors yourself and encounter issues, you may not have any recourse for repairs or replacement.
DIY vs. Professional Hardwood Floor Installation

II. Professional Hardwood Floor Installation

 

A. Advantages of Professional Installation

 
  1. Expertise and experience Professional flooring installers have the necessary skills and experience to ensure a smooth and flawless installation. Their expertise can save you from potential mistakes and costly repairs down the line.
  2. Speed and efficiency A professional installation team can complete the project much faster than a DIY attempt, allowing you to enjoy your new floors sooner.
  3. Warranty and Peace of Mind Hiring a professional installer often comes with a warranty that covers their work. This provides you with peace of mind, knowing that any issues will be addressed by professionals.
 

B. Disadvantages of Professional Installation

 
  1. Cost The primary downside to hiring professional installers is the cost. Labour costs can be high, which may strain your home improvement budget.
  2. Limited Customization  While professional installers can offer guidance and recommendations, you may have less control over the project’s finer details.
Professional Hardwood Floor Installation

III. Factors to Consider When Choosing DIY vs. Professional Installation

  1. Budget: Your budget is one of the most critical factors to consider when deciding between DIY and professional installation. If saving money is a priority, DIY may be the better option. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential costs of mistakes or damage that could result from inexperience.
  2. Skill Level and Experience: Assess your skill level and experience with home improvement projects. If you have a solid background in woodworking or have successfully completed similar tasks, you may feel confident tackling hardwood floor installation. If you’re unsure or inexperienced, hiring a professional may be the better choice.
  3. Time: Constraints Consider your available time for the project. Professional installation is often faster, but you may be willing to invest more time in a DIY project to save money.
  4. Tools and equipment: Installing hardwood floors requires specialised tools and equipment. Before deciding on DIY installation, determine whether you have access to the necessary tools or if you’re willing to invest in purchasing or renting them.
  5. Project Size: and Complexity Consider the size and complexity of your hardwood floor installation project. Smaller, straightforward projects may be more manageable for DIY installation, while larger or more intricate installations may benefit from the expertise of a professional team.
  6. Potential for Future Repairs or Refinishing: Keep in mind that hardwood floors may require repairs or refinishing in the future. A professional installation may provide a warranty that covers these services, while DIY installations may not have this coverage. Consider the long-term costs and benefits of each option.
 

IV. Tips for a Successful DIY Hardwood Floor Installation

If you decide to take on the challenge of installing hardwood floors yourself, here are some tips to help ensure a successful project:
  1. Research and preparation Take the time to research the installation process, watch instructional videos, and read up on best practises. Proper preparation is crucial for a successful DIY hardwood floor installation.
  2. Invest in quality materials. Choose high-quality flooring materials and underlayment to ensure a durable and long-lasting result. Cheaper materials may be tempting, but they can lead to issues down the line.
  3. Acclimatise the wood Before installation, allow the hardwood flooring to acclimatise in the room where it will be installed for at least 72 hours. This helps the wood adjust to the humidity and temperature of the space, reducing the likelihood of warping or buckling after installation.
  4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific flooring product. These guidelines will provide you with crucial information on installation methods, acclimation times, and more.
  5. Take your time. Don’t rush the installation process. Take your time to ensure proper alignment, fitting, and levelling. Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to fix.

V. Choosing the Right Professional Hardwood Floor Installer

If you decide to hire a professional for your hardwood floor installation, keep the following tips in mind to ensure you choose the right team for the job:
  1. Research and Reviews Search online for reputable flooring installation companies in your area. Read reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge their level of expertise and customer satisfaction.
  2. Get multiple quotes. Request quotes from several different companies to compare prices, services, and warranties. This will help you find the best value and ensure you’re making an informed decision.
  3. Check Credentials Ensure the company you choose is licenced and insured, and ask about any certifications or affiliations they may have. This information can provide you with peace of mind and confidence in their abilities.
  4. Ask for references. Request references from previous clients and follow up with them to ask about their experience with the company. This can provide valuable insights into the professionalism and quality of the installation team.

Some Useful Links:

Conclusion

The decision to install hardwood floors yourself or hire a professional comes down to personal preference, budget, skill level, and time constraints. By carefully considering the pros and cons of each option and evaluating your specific circumstances, you can make the best choice for your home improvement project. Whether you opt for a DIY approach or enlist the help of professionals, hardwood floors are a beautiful and valuable addition to any home.

More from our Blog:

How to Restore Shine and Gloss to a Hardwood Floor: A Comprehensive Guide The Ultimate Guide to Floorboard Sanding Techniques Uncover the Top Wood Floor Sanding Services in London: 5 Key Steps to Revive Your Floors Types of Parquet Floor Sanding – Popular Options for Your Home Transform Your Home with Sustainable Wood Flooring Hardwood Floor Variations: Discover the Perfect Choice for Your Home  
Four cheerful customers holding up signs with the Mr. Sander logo and the text 'We give Mr. Sander 5 stars', showing their satisfaction with the service provided.
Floor Sanding Service

Sanding

We provide virtually dust-free sanding with our continuous belt machinery with mobile extraction units, giving you a safer environment for your family.

Floor Oiling Service

Oiling

This organic finish not only adds beauty to your home but also has exceptional water-repellent characteristics, making it easier to clean and maintain.

Floor Waxing Service

Waxing

This natural floor finish offers the softest and most mellow appearance – and leaves your floor able to breath.

Floor Buffing Service

Buffing

Using soft buffing machines (and hand-polishing where required) will bring a wonderful sheen to your newly-finished floor.

Wood Floor Repairs

Repairs

We offer a full assessment of your wooden floors to determine what repairs are needed to provide the perfect working surface for the later stages of sanding, staining and sealing. 

Floor Restoration Service

Restoration

We offer a comprehensive restoration process designed to address floors that are improperly fitted or damaged over time through wear and tear.

Request a fixed price quote for your wood floor restoration now

Simply enter your postcode below to get started.