Should you install your own hardwood?
You may be asking yourself if you can install your own hardwood. It's a natural question as you consider the costs of professional installation and the advancements in modern installation methods.
Considering the investment you're making in the hardwood itself, Shaw recommends that you hire a professional installer or work with your retailer to coordinate installation. An experienced, professional installer will usually provide you with the flooring installation you envision.
If you do decide to install your hardwood yourself, you will need to be familiar and comfortable with basic carpentry tools, including circular saws, pneumatic staple guns, tape measures and chalk lines, some of which can be significant costs themselves. Many of the skills involved are not particularly difficult, but they do require precision and know-how. For your convenience, Shaw provides installation guidelines that cover the required tools as well as basic steps for floor preparation and installation. Our
Epic hardwood installation guidelines can be found here, our
ply-core enginnered hardwood is here, our
Repel installation here, and our
Floorté hardwood installation can be found here.
With proper research and planning, installing your own wood flooring can potentially save you money, but perhaps not as much as you would think once workmanship, time and tools are considered. If you've ordered online and didn't work with a retailer and decide you want to find a certified and
knowlegable installer there are resources available.