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Tools for Laying Hardwood Floors


Hardwood floors can certainly enhance the decor and they will also increase the value of your home. Choosing what type of flooring is one of the most difficult decisions you can make. However, once you've decide to put down new hardwood flooring in your home, you'll want to make sure you have the appropriate tools to help you do the job efficiently and effectively.

Hardwood Floor Nailer

One of the most important tools you will need for installing hardwood flooring is a hardwood floor nailer. This is one of the most expensive tools you will need and you will find many companies rent them out. This will prevent you from paying hundreds of dollars for a tool that you will not use often. This tool will help to hold your floor in place with nails without damaging the floor with a hammer.

Floor Stapler

If you prefer an easier tool than the hardwood floor nailer, you can get a floor stapler when installing hardwood floors. They will secure the hardwood to the sub floor and it's a little bit simpler to use than the nailer. The staplers, again, can be quite expensive and renting them will allow you to use it without the high cost.

Miter Saw

You will also want to make sure you have a miter saw if you are installing solid hardwood flooring. This will allow you to cut the boards to the necessary length and fit them around any obstacles. You may also need to use a circular saw for cutting the boards to your floor specifications, as well. As the miter saw is a very expensive item, you may want to rent it, as well.

Chalk Line

One very important tool in hardwood flooring is a chalk line. Many people do not own one of these, however, they can be purchased for under $20 at most home improvement stores. They are used when installing hardwood floors to make sure the line of the flooring is straight. Without a chalk line to guide you, you may find the angle of the boards of your hardwood floor is off.

Other Basic Tools Needed

Other basic carpentry tools will be needed as well, such as a pry bar or pool tool to help you get the boards lined up along the edges. Spacers to help align the boards, as well as a hammer and ruler is also required to do the job of laying hardwood flooring. Of course, you'll want to make sure you have a tapping block, as well. This will allow you to tap the boards into place without damaging them.

You may find yourself already owning most of the tools required. For the bigger ones, however, it is more wise to rent them out for the day.