Hello,

I just bought a condo in Encino (1100sq ft) and wanted to replace the ugly carpet with hardwood floors. From the short time I've been here I've learned a lot but is there is a list of things I should ask the installer to make sure I got a good one? Also, can anyone refer a affordable and good (for the price) in the LA/Valley area?

For example I know I should ask:
-how do you measure the moisture?
-What do you do when the hardwood arrives (they should say unpack it to let it breathe and expand)
-What are some good hardwood floors for my area (they should answer based on moisture and the sub floor)
-Look in his truck

I also read:
http://hardwoodinstaller.com/hardwoodin ... -watch.htm


As far as picking a hardwood floor, I don't suspect I'll live here longer than 10 years so something that has a 15-20 year lifespan should be good. I do like darker colors (projector in the living room) and would like to keep the noise down.

I'm open to suggestions!! Thanks.

Just to add, I also have read:
http://www.hardwoodinstaller.com/hardwo ... /types.htm

Which was suggested by the sites very helpful admin. I'm thinking of going to this area in LA where there's several lumber wholesalers and installers. I was hoping to see if they have anything in clearance that they are trying to get rid of, for example a wholesaler with 1500sq ft of a certain type of wood that no dealer wants to buy so little of.

If my floor is concrete instead of plywood, I know I have to stick to engineered wood with decent thickness so I can refinish it a few times.

Any other good tips on finding a good solution?

Not sure of your location, but if your in Toms area look the old geezer up and tell him grooving sent you.



www.valleyhardwoodflooring.com

It is really quite simple! Each box has the manufacturer's instructions in them. Pull one out or go online and download them. Follow religiously particularly regarding acclimation, measuring moisture content in subfloor and hardwood should be verified by 20 readings per 1,000 sf and averaged. How long it needs to be in the home to reach the relative humidity and temperature can only be determined by a moisture meter and the knowledge of how to use it.