When it comes to installing new wood floors in your Chicago home, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference.
C.A.C. Flooring Inc, a locally owned, family operated hardwood flooring company, is dedicated to providing quality products and services to help you achieve the floors of your dreams.
Handling Uneven Subfloors in Older Chicago Homes
Many older homes in Chicago come with the challenge of uneven subfloors, which can make installing new hardwood a tricky process.
However, with the right expertise and techniques, these issues can be addressed to ensure a smooth, long-lasting floor.
| Challenge | Solution | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sagging or sloping floors | Install adjustable floor joists or support beams | Provides a level base for hardwood installation |
| Gaps or voids under subfloor | Fill with self-leveling underlayment compound | Creates an even surface and prevents squeaks |
| Uneven concrete slab | Grind down high spots and fill low areas with leveling compound | Ensures hardwood lays flat and gaps are minimized |
C.A.C. Flooring’s installers are well-versed in evaluating subfloor conditions and implementing the appropriate solutions.
They work closely with clients to discuss the best approach for their specific home.
Selecting the Right Underlayment for Chicago’s Climate
Chicago’s climate presents unique challenges for wood floors, with cold winters and humid summers.
Choosing the proper underlayment is key to providing insulation, reducing noise, and protecting against moisture.
Some of the most effective underlayment options for Chicago homes include:
- Cork: Natural insulator with good soundproofing properties
- Foam: Excellent moisture barrier and helps reduce unevenness
- Rubber: Durable option that offers sound reduction and moisture resistance
Consult with your C.A.C. Flooring professional to determine which underlayment will work best for your home and hardwood selection.
They’ll take into account factors like subfloor type, wood species, and expected foot traffic.
| Underlayment | Insulation | Soundproofing | Moisture Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cork | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Foam | Good | Fair | Excellent |
| Rubber | Fair | Excellent | Good |
Acclimating Wood Floors to Chicago’s Humidity
Proper acclimation of hardwood is crucial to prevent issues like cupping, crowning, and gapping.
Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it expands and contracts based on the moisture in the environment.
| Step | Description | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Let wood sit in open boxes in installation room | 3-5 days |
| 2 | Use a moisture meter to check wood until it reaches equilibrium with room | 5-10 days |
| 3 | Ensure room humidity stays between 35-55% during acclimation | Ongoing |
C.A.C. Flooring follows industry best practices for acclimation, carefully monitoring moisture levels of the wood and the installation environment.
They adjust the timeline as needed based on the specific site conditions to ensure optimal results.
Common Challenges of Installing Wood Floors in Chicago
Even with proper preparation, challenges can arise during the installation process.
Some common ones faced in Chicago homes include:
- Uneven humidity levels between rooms or floors
- Existing floor damage from previous installations
- Transitions between flooring types like tile or carpet
C.A.C. Flooring’s installation teams are proactive in identifying potential issues and addressing them early on.
They use specialized tools to monitor moisture and carefully plan transitions for a seamless look.
With decades of experience, they’ve seen it all and know how to handle any challenge.
| Challenge | Solution | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven humidity levels | Use moisture meters and humidifiers/dehumidifiers | Prevents wood from expanding/contracting unevenly |
| Existing floor damage | Repair or replace damaged subfloor | Provides a stable base for new hardwood installation |
| Flooring transitions | Plan transitions carefully and use appropriate moldings | Creates a seamless, professional look between flooring types |
Post-Installation Care and Waiting Periods
After investing in new hardwood floors, it’s important to care for them properly, especially in the first few days and weeks after installation.
Here are some general guidelines to follow:
| Time After Install | Care Instructions |
|---|---|
| 0-24 hours | Avoid all foot traffic |
| 1-7 days | Only light foot traffic, avoid shoes |
| 1-2 weeks | Gradually introduce furniture, use felt pads |
| 2+ weeks | Resume regular cleaning routine, avoid excess moisture |
Your C.A.C. Flooring experts will provide you with detailed care instructions tailored to your specific wood floors.
They are also available anytime to answer maintenance questions and provide tips on keeping your floors looking great.
Why We Think Proper Installation is Important
At C.A.C. Flooring, we believe that proper installation is the foundation of a beautiful, long-lasting hardwood floor.
By taking the time to assess your home’s unique needs, select the right materials, and follow industry best practices for installation and acclimation, we ensure that your floors will look and perform their best for years to come.
Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart as Chicago’s premier hardwood flooring company.
We take pride in our work and always go the extra mile to exceed your expectations.
FAQs
How do I handle uneven subfloors when installing wood floors in older Chicago homes?
Solutions for uneven subfloors include installing adjustable joists, filling voids with self-leveling compound, and grinding down high spots on concrete slabs. C.A.C. Flooring will evaluate your subfloor and recommend the best approach.
What is the best underlayment material for wood floors in Chicago’s climate?
Cork, foam, and rubber underlayments are all good choices for Chicago’s climate, offering insulation, sound reduction, and moisture resistance. Your C.A.C. installer will help determine the right one for your home.
How should I acclimate wood flooring to Chicago’s humidity levels?
Let the wood sit in open boxes in the installation room for 3-5 days, then use a moisture meter to check the wood until it reaches equilibrium, which can take 5-10 days. Room humidity should stay between 35-55% throughout acclimation.
What are the common challenges when installing wood floors in Chicago homes?
Uneven humidity levels, existing floor damage, and transitions between flooring types are common challenges in Chicago homes. C.A.C.’s experienced teams are proactive in identifying and addressing these issues for a flawless installation.
How long should I wait before walking on newly installed wood floors?
Avoid all foot traffic for the first 24 hours, then only light foot traffic without shoes for days 1-7. Gradually introduce furniture after 1-2 weeks, using felt pads. After 2 weeks, you can resume your regular floor cleaning routine.
