How to Install Hardwood Flooring on a Slanted Floor

Installing hardwood flooring on a slanted or uneven surface presents unique challenges but can still result in a beautiful and long-lasting floor. At Archview Flooring, we’ve been helping homeowners in Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville, IL, and St. Louis, MO since 2008, offering expert advice and quality flooring solutions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to address slanted floors when installing hardwood.

Understanding the challenges of slanted floors

Slanted floors are often the result of foundation settling, structural issues, or irregularities in older homes. While the slope may not always be a major concern, it can affect the appearance and integrity of your hardwood flooring. Without proper preparation, you risk gaps, creaks, or uneven surfaces.

Step 1: Evaluate the slope of the floor

Before starting the installation, evaluate the degree of the slope. Use a level to measure the incline. If the slope is greater than 1/8 inch per 6 feet, you may need to consider additional leveling methods, such as:

• Self-leveling compound for concrete subfloors.
• Shimming and sanding for wooden subfloors.

For extreme slopes, consult a structural engineer to ensure the floor can safely support the new installation.

Step 2: Prepare the subfloor

Proper preparation is key to ensuring your hardwood floor remains stable and visually appealing. Here’s what to do:

Inspect for damages

Look for cracks, moisture issues, or weak areas in the subfloor. Address these before proceeding.

Address the slope

For minor slopes:

• Use a self-leveling compound to smooth uneven areas on concrete subfloors.
• For wooden subfloors, nail shims under the floorboards to raise low areas or sand high points.

For major slopes:

• Lay down a plywood subfloor on top of the existing surface, ensuring it’s leveled.

Step 3: Choose the right hardwood flooring

Certain types of hardwood flooring work better for slanted surfaces:

• Engineered hardwood: Its layered construction makes it less prone to warping or buckling.
• Narrow planks: They adjust better to slight imperfections compared to wider planks.
• Floating floors: These are not attached directly to the subfloor, allowing them to accommodate minor unevenness.

At Archview Flooring, our showroom in Edwardsville, IL, offers a wide selection of engineered and solid hardwood options perfect for challenging installations.

Step 4: Install the hardwood flooring

Acclimate the wood

Before installation, let the hardwood acclimate to the room’s humidity and temperature for at least 48 hours. This step minimizes expansion and contraction after installation.

Lay the first row carefully

• Start at the highest point of the room.
• Use a chalk line to ensure the first row is straight, as it sets the foundation for the rest of the installation.

Use spacers

Spacers help maintain consistent gaps between the boards and the walls, allowing for natural expansion.

Nail or glue the boards

Depending on the flooring type:

• Nail down solid hardwood for a secure fit.
• Glue down engineered hardwood for added stability on slightly uneven surfaces.

Check each row

Periodically check for alignment and adjust as necessary to prevent gaps.

Step 5: Finish the installation

Once the flooring is installed:

• Trim and molding: Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to cover expansion gaps.
• Clean up: Sweep and clean the floor to remove debris.

Tips for long-term maintenance

• Regularly inspect the floor for signs of shifting or wear.
• Use rugs or furniture pads to minimize stress on slanted areas.
• Contact professionals for repairs if the slope worsens over time.

Why choose Archview Flooring?

Since 2008, Archview Flooring has been the trusted name for flooring solutions in Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Maryville, Collinsville, IL, and St. Louis, MO. Our expert team can guide you in selecting the best hardwood flooring for your home, even if your floors are less than perfect. Visit our showroom in Edwardsville to explore our extensive collection and receive personalized advice for your project.

Ready to transform your home?

Installing hardwood on a slanted floor requires extra care, but with the right preparation and materials, you can achieve stunning results. Let Archview Flooring help you every step of the way. Visit our Edwardsville, IL showroom today or contact us for expert assistance!