Hardwood & Laminate Installation
Learn more about what to expect from your hardwood installation, including how to prepare and how to care for your new hardwood or laminate flooring. Our team of specialists are here to support you every step of the way, from design through maintenance.
What to Expect During Hardwood or Laminate Installation
As with any flooring project, hardwood or laminate flooring installation is considered a construction project. When preparing your home, be advised that there is the potential for noise, dust, and material odors during the installation process.
Our installers will do their best to contain any mess created during the installation process. Please note that your access to the space will be limited during the installation, and you may also be asked to refrain from using the space for a period of time after the installation.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
Start by getting a clear idea of the area you’ll be covering. Measuring your space ahead of time will help guide your product selection and budgeting. Don't worry, our estimators will do a final measure before installation. Check out our DIY measurement guides.
Step 2: Explore Products
Browse our wide selection of hardwood & laminate flooring to find styles and price points that fit your needs. Explore popular products online for details and pricing. Shop hardwood styles. Shop laminate styles.
Step 3: Meet Your Team
Visit one of our showrooms and connect with our experts. From budgeting and product selection to measuring and professional installation, we’ll be with you every step of the way. Learn More.
Step 4: Prepare for Installation
Get ready for the exciting transition from old to new. We’ll provide all the information you need to make installation smooth and stress-free. Learn more below.
Step 5: Care, Maintenance & Warranty
Protect your investment for years to come. Follow our care guides for proper cleaning and upkeep and enjoy added peace of mind with Avalon’s 3-year installation warranty plus manufacturer warranties on your specific products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Avalon Flooring provides complimentary design services. Our knowledgeable associates assist in selecting the appropriate color, size, style, and material that align with your home's aesthetic and your budget.
Installation costs vary based on the product type, project complexity, and specific requirements. For instance, professional installation costs can range from $2 to $12 per square foot, factoring in labor, materials, and any additional services needed. For a precise estimate, we recommend scheduling a free in-home estimate.
Installation timelines depend on the product and project scope. Your estimator will provide a detailed timeline during the in-home estimate.
Avalon Flooring’s professional installation service is a fully managed experience. Our team is trained to understand your specific needs. You can expect free estimates, scheduling services, and certified installation teams backed by a 3-year warranty, as well as life-long customer support.
We understand that home improvement projects can evolve, and unexpected changes may arise. At Avalon Flooring, we’re committed to providing flexibility and support throughout your experience. If you need to change your mind or pause the project, here’s what you can expect:
- Before placing an order: If you haven’t finalized your order or scheduled installation, you can adjust your product selection, update measurements, or delay the process without penalty. Your Sales Consultant can revise your quote and help you explore new options.
- After placing an order but before installation: If materials have already been ordered or delivered, a restocking fee may apply depending on the manufacturer’s return policy. We’ll work with you to minimize costs and accommodate changes when possible.
- If you need to pause the installation: We can reschedule your installation date to a later time. Simply contact the Avalon Flooring Installation Department as soon as possible so we can adjust timelines and coordinate with our installation teams.
- In the case of a project cancellation: If you choose to cancel the project entirely, any custom or special-order products may not be returnable. Refunds will be processed based on the status of your order, and any non-refundable charges will be clearly communicated.
Your project pricing is valid for 30 days from the date the quote is issued. This gives you time to review your options, plan your installation timeline, and make any necessary decisions without pressure.
Yes, Avalon Flooring offers removal and disposal services for existing flooring as part of the installation process. Details and any associated costs will be discussed during your consultation. If you'd prefer to handle removal or disposal yourself, just let us know during the planning stage. We’re happy to tailor the service to your preferences and project needs.
Yes, Avalon Flooring provides special financing options, including 12 months no interest on purchases over $1,000, subject to credit approval.
Avalon Flooring offers care and maintenance guides. Learn more about how to maintain and clean your new hardwood here (opens in new tab).
Learn more about how to maintain and clean your new laminate here (opens in new tab).For any post-installation concerns, please contact our customer support team at (856) 644-5700 or customersupport@avalonflooring.com.
Still have questions? We have answers.
Call your local showroom or email us a customersupport@avalonflooring.com.
Preparing for your Hardwood or Laminate Installation
Once our warehouse receives your order, an installation manager will call you to schedule the installation of your new flooring.
Duuring the ordering process, the estimator who visited your home will have already discussed the installation process including the layout of your new floor, removal of the existing floor, if needed, and the basics of making the installation process move smoothly and quickly including the following:
- If you’re remodeling more than your floor, all other construction projects should be completed prior to floor installation.
- Remember to disconnect or remove all toilets and water/gas lines.
- Remove all furniture from the construction area as agreed upon with the estimator prior to our team’s arrival.
- Remove all small personal items, electronics and breakables from the tops of furniture and from closets where the new flooring will be installed.
- Ensure that your home has an operational HVAC unit(s) before, during and after installation.
- If you have any subfloor concerns, timing issues, or questions on the finishing/trim, raise the question before your installation process so we can accommodate and plan accordingly.
- Make sure acclimation of your flooring product is completed prior to installation.
Unfortunately, there are times we discover unforeseen issues or damage once we remove existing flooring. If that is the case, your estimator/installer will review any issues and work out pricing for any additional work/repairs that may need to be done.
Special Considerations
Hardwood is susceptible to what we call "Seasonal Gapping." This means that you may notice gaps that appear and disappear in your floor as the seasons change. This tends to be more noticeable in homes with gas/propane heating systems. This is a normal condition that cannot be prevented.
Laminate is a floating floor system. This means it “rests” on the existing subfloor beneath it. There is no such thing as a perfectly flat floor, so you may notice that the floor moves or “deflects” when walking on it. This can be more noticeable in some parts of the floor versus others. Your estimator will check the levelness of your sub-floor to the best of their ability, allowing you to make the best possible decision regarding the selected products for your new project. For example, in some instances, carpet can better hide sub-floor issues. As noted above, if the installer discovers any issues with the subfloor when removing the existing flooring materials, they will bring it to your attention immediately and let you know of any additional charges that will be incurred to level the sub-floor.
Important Note: Hardwood is a natural product and will vary in color, shade and sheen, both in your home and from the original sample. Natural light will also impact its appearance. Depending on the species and grade of the wood you selected, there is always the possibility you will see knots, checks (small cracks), and other minor imperfections.
Project Timeline & What to Expect During Service
We strongly recommend customers be home when the installers first arrive. This allows the installers to review the materials with you and confirm installation areas. The installers may also ask where they can set up a saw to make cuts. Our installers always use drop cloths to protect nearby furniture and delicate items.
The installers will need to remove the existing floors and it should be known that they will have to use tools like saws, crow bars and even scrapers that will generate noise, dust and may cause nail pops in the ceiling below.
The installers will install your new floor as discussed with your estimator. There are a few different methods of installation that are appropriate for a variety of scenarios and will impact the look and feel of the flooring once installed. For example, hardwood and laminate floors can be installed using nail/staple, glue, or click float installation methods.
Nailed/stapled and glued floors are more permanent while floating floors can move a bit under foot.
After Installation & Warranty
Once the installers finish installing your new flooring, they will clean up and remove all work-related debris and then begin moving the furniture back into the space. Please remember, this is the first time our installers have been in your home and they will do their best to put all the furniture back in their proper locations. Lastly, they will ask you to walk through the job with them to make sure all work is completed to your satisfaction.
Proper care and maintenance is critical to maintaining your new flooring. It is recommended that you add felt pads to furniture, add rugs in entrance areas to catch debris from the outdoors, and keep the floor swept to help reduce scratches.
IMPORTANT TIP: Laminate products "float" over an existing subfloor. This is important to note as you may notice some movement after the installation.
Hardwood & Laminate Warranty Information
For additional Hardwood information read our care & maintenance guide (opens in new tab).
For additional Laminate information read our care & maintenance guide (opens in new tab).
