How Long Does It Take To Install Hardwood Floors?

Installing hardwood floors is one of the most sought-after home improvement projects for homeowners. Known for their timeless beauty, durability, and ability to increase a home’s value, hardwood floors are an investment that can transform any space. However, before taking the plunge, it’s important to understand the timeline for installation, as it’s a significant project that can require a fair amount of time and effort.

In this article, we’ll break down how long it takes to install hardwood floors, considering various factors like the type of hardwood, the size of the room, the condition of the subfloor, and whether you’re hiring professionals or opting for a DIY approach. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the installation process, how long it typically takes, and what you can expect during the procedure.

Factors That Affect Hardwood Floor Installation Time

Before we get into the specifics of how long the installation will take, it’s important to note that various factors influence the total time for the project. These include:

1. Type of Hardwood
   • Solid hardwood floors generally take longer to install than engineered hardwood floors. Solid hardwood requires more precise cutting and acclimation, which can extend the timeline.
2. Room Size
   • The larger the area, the more time it will take to install the hardwood floors. For example, a small bedroom will take less time to install than a large living room or an entire house.
3. Subfloor Preparation
   • If your subfloor is in good condition, installation will be quicker. However, if the subfloor requires repairs, leveling, or additional preparation, the process will take longer.
4. Installation Method
   • There are different methods of installing hardwood floors: nail-down, staple-down, glue-down, and floating floors. Some methods are quicker than others. For example, floating floors are generally quicker to install than those that require nailing or gluing.
5. Acclimation Time
   • Hardwood floors need to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation. This can take anywhere from 48 to 72 hours, depending on the hardwood type and the conditions in your home.
6. Professional vs. DIY Installation
   • Hiring a professional contractor can speed up the process, as they are trained and equipped to handle the job efficiently. On the other hand, if you opt for a DIY installation, it may take longer, especially if you’re less experienced.

How Long Does It Take to Install Hardwood Floors: A Breakdown

Now that we understand the factors at play, let’s look at the typical timeline for hardwood floor installation. We’ll break it down based on different scenarios.

1. Professional Installation (Standard Conditions)

For a standard installation by professionals, the timeline is typically as follows:

• Preparation (1-2 Days)
  • Subfloor inspection and preparation: Before installing the hardwood, professionals will inspect the subfloor for any damage, moisture, or level issues. If the subfloor is in good condition, this step might take just a few hours. However, if repairs are needed, it can extend to a day or two.
  • Acclimation: The hardwood planks must acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity, especially if the wood was delivered in different conditions. This typically takes about 48 hours, but it can take longer in certain environments. Professionals will schedule this phase so it overlaps with other steps to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Installation (1-3 Days)
  • The actual hardwood floor installation can take anywhere from one to three days, depending on the size of the room or home, the type of wood, and the installation method.
    • For small rooms (like a 10×10 bedroom), installation might only take a day.
    • For larger areas (like a 500-1000 square foot living room), it could take 2 to 3 days.
  • During this process, professionals will cut, lay, and secure the planks to the subfloor. They will also ensure proper alignment and spacing, making sure the floor looks seamless.
• Finishing (1-2 Days)
  • If the installation involves finishing the wood on-site (e.g., staining and sealing), this can take an additional one to two days. Drying time for the stain and finish will be required between coats, so this part can be lengthy. However, many professionals also offer pre-finished hardwood, which eliminates the need for finishing on-site.

Total Time: Typically, the installation process takes about 3-7 days for professional installation, including all necessary preparations, installation, and finishing.

2. DIY Installation

If you decide to take on the hardwood floor installation as a DIY project, the timeline can be more variable, depending on your experience level, the size of the area, and how much time you can devote to the project.

• Preparation (1-2 Days)
  • As with professional installation, you’ll need to inspect and prepare the subfloor. This includes removing old flooring, cleaning the area, and ensuring the subfloor is level. If you are dealing with a more complicated subfloor or removing old flooring yourself, this could take more time. Expect this phase to take 1-2 days.
  • You’ll also need to allow for the hardwood to acclimate, which means bringing the wood into the room and letting it sit for 48-72 hours. This acclimation time is crucial for ensuring the wood doesn’t shrink or expand after installation.
• Installation (2-7 Days)
  • The installation process will depend on the size of the room and the type of hardwood you’ve chosen.
    • Small rooms: For a small room, such as a bedroom, it may take you 1-2 days to install the hardwood floors.
    • Larger rooms: For larger rooms or open floor plans, it may take anywhere from 3-7 days. If you’re installing the floors throughout an entire house, the project can easily take a week or more.
  • Keep in mind that as a DIYer, you might face some delays due to lack of experience, needing to make multiple trips to a hardware store for materials, or troubleshooting installation issues that arise.
• Finishing (2-3 Days)
  • If you’re using unfinished hardwood or need to stain and seal the floor yourself, it could take another 2-3 days for the finishes to dry and set. Pre-finished hardwoods eliminate this step, making your installation time shorter.

Total Time: For DIYers, hardwood floor installation can take 5-12 days, depending on the size of the area and the type of wood. Keep in mind that the timeline may vary depending on your skill level and any unforeseen obstacles you encounter.

3. Flooring Type Considerations

• Solid Hardwood vs. Engineered Hardwood:
  • Solid hardwood requires more time to install than engineered hardwood due to its thicker structure and the need for acclimation to the room’s humidity levels. Solid wood typically needs a nail-down or staple-down method, which can be more time-consuming than the click-lock installation method used for engineered hardwood.
  • Engineered hardwood can be quicker to install, especially when it comes to floating floors. These floors are designed to click together, which can significantly reduce installation time.
• Pre-finished vs. Unfinished Hardwood:
  • Pre-finished hardwood eliminates the need for staining or finishing on-site, reducing your overall installation time. These floors are ready to be laid down and sealed once the planks are installed, which means they can be walked on immediately.
  • Unfinished hardwood, on the other hand, requires staining, sealing, and drying time, which adds extra days to the installation process. Expect the entire project to take longer if you go this route.

Tips to Speed Up the Installation Process

If you’re hoping to shorten your hardwood floor installation time, here are some tips:

• Hire Professionals: While you may be able to save money by opting for a DIY project, hiring professionals will often result in faster and more efficient installation. They have the experience, tools, and team to get the job done quickly.
• Choose Pre-finished Hardwood: Going with pre-finished hardwood instead of unfinished wood will save you days in finishing time, allowing you to move into your newly installed space sooner.
• Prepare Your Space: Make sure your home is ready before the installers arrive. Clear the area of furniture and ensure the subfloor is clean and level to prevent delays.
• Use Click-lock Flooring: For DIYers, consider using engineered hardwood with a click-lock installation method. It’s easier and faster to install than traditional nailing or gluing methods.

Conclusion: How Long Does It Take to Install Hardwood Floors?

The time it takes to install hardwood floors varies depending on several factors, including the type of hardwood, the room size, the subfloor condition, and whether you hire professionals or take the DIY route. On average, for a professional installation, expect the project to take 3-7 days. For a DIY project, the process may take anywhere from 5 to 12 days depending on your experience and the complexities of the space.

While the timeline can differ based on specific circumstances, careful planning, the right materials, and preparation can help streamline the installation process. Whether you’re upgrading a single room or your entire home, knowing the expected timeline will help you better manage the project and avoid frustration.

So, the next time you ask, “How long does it take to install hardwood floors?” you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what factors play a role and how long to expect the project to take!