How To Install Hardwood Floors In Older Homes
- Published By: District Floor Depot
When installing flooring in a new home, you have a blank slate. There’s no old carpet or planks to remove, and the subfloor is new and ready to go. With a newer home, you usually won’t encounter the challenges that can happen to an older home over time.
At the same time, installing hardwood floors in older homes is possible! Doing so can enhance the look and feel of your space and help you improve the value of your property. Read on to find out how to install hardwood floors in your older home.
What Is Under Old Hardwood Floors?
Before you start putting down new flooring, first you’ll need to get rid of the old floors. Next, check the subfloor for any moisture, missing wood or pest damage. You may need to make repairs to resolve any cracks, moisture issues or other signs of damage. You’ll want the subfloor clean and dry before you start installation.
Why do floors sag in old houses? It can be because of foundation issues or damaged subfloors. Some homes over 50 years old were built on dirt, and over time this can cause a house to settle and floors to become uneven.
If you notice any uneven floors, call the professionals to fix any structural problems so your new floors stay even and beautiful.
What Flooring Is Best for Old Houses?
Wood flooring and engineered wood floors are both great options for historic and vintage homes. They can last for decades and complement the classic lines of older properties.
You may want to replace existing wood floors with the same type of wood. For example, if your home had oak floors originally or has an oak trim, new oak floors may be ideal. You can also update your home with a different look by replacing pine flooring with deep walnut or a warm-toned cherry, for example.
What is the best flooring for an old house with uneven floors? While it’s best to fix sloping floors by addressing the underlying cause, it may not be worth it for a very slightly uneven floor. In these cases, quality vinyl flooring is ideal because it can shape around any small imperfections and is flexible enough to provide a smooth look.
Contact District Floor Depot for Expert Flooring Installation
Schedule a consultation with District Floor Depot to explore flooring options right in your home. Our team can take measurements and even show you flooring samples that could be right for your space.