Prepare the subfloor

1. Clean the surface: Remove any dirt, dust, and debris from the subfloor to ensure a clean surface for installation.

2. Check for level: Use a level to ensure the subfloor is level and flat. If necessary, sand down high spots or fill low spots to level the surface.

3. Repair any damage: Repair any cracks, holes, or other damages to the subfloor to ensure a smooth and even surface.

4. Install a moisture barrier: If necessary, install a moisture barrier to protect the hardwood flooring from moisture damage. This is particularly important in areas with high humidity or where moisture is likely to seep through the subfloor.

5. Allow the subfloor to dry: Allow the subfloor to dry completely before installing the hardwood flooring.

Lay out the planks

Arrange the planks in the room to ensure an aesthetically pleasing layout.

Measure the length and width of the room to determine how many planks you will need. Lay out the planks in the room to determine the best layout. You can arrange them randomly, in a diagonal pattern, or in a specific direction, depending on your preferences. Leave a gap of 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch along the walls to allow for expansion of the flooring. This gap can be covered later by trim or baseboard.

Cut the planks

To cut hardwood flooring planks, you can use several tools, including a handsaw, jigsaw, circular saw, or miter saw. The specific tool you use will depend on the type of cut you need to make and the size of the planks. Here are the steps to cut hardwood flooring planks using a miter saw:

Measure and mark the plank: Measure the length you need and make a mark on the plank.

Secure the plank: Clamp the plank to the miter saw table to prevent it from moving while cutting.

Adjust the saw blade: Set the saw blade to the correct height for the thickness of the plank.

Make the cut: Turn on the saw and slowly bring the blade down through the plank, following the marked line.

Repeat the process: Repeat the process for each cut you need to make.

Glue or nail down the planks

If desired, apply a bead of adhesive along the subfloor before nailing down the planks. Then load the flooring nailer with nails and set the depth of the nails.

Always remember to start in one corner of the room and work your way out, nailing down the first row of planks.

Place the end of each plank against the tongue of the previously installed plank, then align the groove over the tongue and nail the plank down through the tongue.

Fill the seams

Fill any seams between the planks with wood filler, sanding the surface smooth after it dries.

Sand the surface

Start by inspecting the flooring to identify any high spots, low spots, or damage that may need to be repaired before sanding.

Rent a floor sander from a hardware store or rental center. There are several types of sanders available, including drum sanders and belt sanders. Prepare the sander by attaching the appropriate sandpaper grit for the condition of the flooring.

Start sanding in one corner of the room and work your way out, sanding with the grain of the flooring. Move the sander slowly and evenly to avoid damaging the flooring. Change the sandpaper grits as needed, starting with a coarser grit for the initial sanding, then using a finer grit for each subsequent pass.

Vacuum and sweep the flooring thoroughly after each sanding pass to remove any debris.

Repeat the process: Repeat the sanding process until the flooring is smooth and even, then clean the flooring thoroughly and apply a finish if desired.

Apply a finish

Apply a finish to the hardwood, such as polyurethane, to protect the surface from scratches and water damage.