Hardwood floor installation in Palatine, IL

What is included

• Solid hardwood
• Engineered hardwood
• Wide-plank white oak
• Herringbone and chevron
• Carpet-to-hardwood conversion
• Removal and disposal
• Subfloor prep
• Transitions and trim

Solid or engineered hardwood

Solid hardwood is one piece of wood through its full thickness and can be sanded and refinished many times over its life. It is the classic choice for main floors over a wood subfloor.

Engineered hardwood has a real wood wear layer bonded to a stable core. It moves less with seasonal humidity, which makes it the better fit over concrete, in basements and over radiant heat. A thicker wear layer means it can still be refinished later.

Plank width, species and pattern

White oak is the most requested species right now for its neutral tone and tight grain. Red oak, hickory and maple remain good options. Wider planks show more of the wood's character and make rooms feel larger.

Herringbone and chevron take more labor and produce more waste than straight lay, so they cost more per square foot, but they are one of the few floor choices that can define a whole room.

Subfloor and moisture come first

Most floor failures start below the wood. The subfloor is checked for flatness, loose areas and squeaks, and moisture is tested in both the subfloor and the new flooring. Wood is acclimated according to the manufacturer before installation.

Carpet to hardwood

Many Northwest suburban homes have carpeted bedrooms and living rooms over plywood. Replacing carpet with hardwood means removing carpet, pad and tack strip, preparing the subfloor, and matching height and color at doorways and stairs.