Different Types of Installation Used For Timber Floors
Timber flooring is a popular option for homeowners as it comes in an array of materials. If you are looking for something high-end that will add a touch of class to your home, hardwood flooring would be right up your alley. However, when considering timber flooring, it is not simply about what type of wood would be best suited to you. You also have to consider the type of installation that would work best for your home, as this would affect both the time it takes for your flooring to be ready for use, as well as the installation costs. Here are some of the different types of installation that can be used for timber floors.
Floating timber flooring installation
This is one of the most convenient types of installation you could opt for with timber flooring. For floating timber installation, the contractor will place your timber flooring right above your pre-existing flooring. This eliminates the need of having to prep the surface so as to install your new flooring. It should also be noted that floating timber flooring installation does not require any nailing down of the timber materials. Instead, they are affixed onto the pre-existing flooring using a high-density fibreboard.
The contractor will place a layer of either rubber or foam beneath the fibreboard that will act as sound insulation for your new flooring. Floating timber flooring installation is suitable for homeowners who do not want to hear the constant pitter patter of feet on the floorboards.
Structural timber flooring installation
With this type of timber flooring installation, the contractor will begin by placing bearer and joists on the floor. This process can be quite tedious and time consuming, as such it is not recommended to try to embark on it as a do it yourself project. One thing to note about structural timber flooring installation is that it requires a significant amount of time for the floorboards to acclimatize. This step is crucial if you would like to prevent premature warping and cracking of your timber flooring.
The contractor also has to ensure there is sufficient ventilation between the floorboards and the sub-floor to prevent the entrapment of moisture. As such, structural timber flooring installation tends to take more time to be completed when compared to other flooring options. However, it makes up for this by providing you with long lasting timber floors.
For more information, contact a timber flooring contractor in your area.