Phew! I wipe my forehead, brush the hair out of my eyes, and stretch my aching back. I just finished nailing 1200 square feet of hardwood flooring. I love this floor! Of course I did not complete the installation by myself. Sons, son-in-law and daughter-in-law kept me going. Then there was our friend who lent us the specific tools; staple gun and air compressor. Thanks.
My husband and I bought a new house for ourselves. We loved it when we found it but you guessed it, updates were needed. A daunting task, but he was prepared for it. My husband kept asking me if he thought we should hire a contractor to make sure the renovation was done correctly. I kept saying “No, I can do this. I want to do this. It will be fun.”
It was fun. First. We chose our wood, I did not know it before but it is essential to let the wood rest in the house for a few days before installing it so that the wood acclimatizes to the home. Our good friend House-flipper lent us his staple gun, air compressor, and one morning of his time to teach me the essentials of hardwood floors.
It turns out that the preparation is more complicated than laying the boards. I learned what and how to use as a moisture barrier (roofing felt), how to determine where to start, and precise measurements are important before drawing a chalk line. Fortunately I am a quick study and I was quickly alone. I have to admit that I worked very slowly but insisted on doing it slow and thoughtful. This was my home and I wanted it done right. Also, I didn’t want my husband to regret not hiring professionals. After lifting the carpet, breaking the tiles, and prying the parquet floors from the 60’s, we laid a beautiful Brazilian cherry flooring throughout most of the ground floor. I have a great feeling of satisfaction. I can walk in the living room and I am inspired.
My husband walked around the house and said, “Man, these flats are so pretty!” I said, “You didn’t think I could do this, did you?” His response: “I have to admit I had my doubts.” So, I thought I’d let everyone know that if I can spend days on my knees with my hammer, tape measure, and knife, you can do this too.
