How to Install Hardwood Floors in Illinois

Hardwood floor installation is often left to professionals due to its relative difficulty. Experienced do-it-yourself types, however, can accomplish the task with great results when using the proper tools and methods. Installing a hardwood floor in Illinois is no different than installing in other states, although acclimating the floor during various times of the year may need to be done differently. Hot, humid summers in Illinois can damage the planks before they ever get on the floor. Especially for unfinished floors, take care that the planks do not get wet or acclimate in humid conditions as the boards can swell and warp. Illinois building permits are issued at the local level and some cities require permits for flooring and other finishing work, so always check with your local government before performing this task.

Pry bar and hammer
Proper underlayment
Hammer
Nails long enough to go through the plank and 1 inch into subfloor
Pneumatic nailer
Scrap piece of wood

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all the baseboards around the room or rooms you are laying the floor in with a hammer or pry bar. Unless you plan to replace all of them, take care when removing them so they don't break or crack.
- 2
  Lay out the recommended underlayment for your chosen hardwood flooring. This is often either a felt vapor barrier or poly-plastic. Allow pieces to overlap 4 to 6 inches.
- 3
  Choose which way you want your floor to run. Often the floor is laid out parallel to the longest wall or parallel to incoming light, but your personal preference may be something different. To choose, consider laying out small sections in each direction to see which way you like best.
- 4
  Snap a string line for the first row if the starting wall is crooked. The string line will allow you to lay the floor straight despite imperfections in the shape of the room.
- 5
  Place the first row, with the groove side against the wall.
- 6
  Nail the board through the face where it will be hidden by the baseboard.
- 7
  Nail through the tongue side of the planks at an angle every 6 to 8 inches.
- 8
  Tap subsequent rows and courses using a scrap piece of wood or flooring.
- 9
  Pull the last row in tight to the rest of the floor using a pry bar. Nail at the edge that will be hidden by the baseboard.
- 10
  Replace all baseboards and add transitions and other moldings as needed.

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