Wood flooring is a timeless and durable choice that enhances the beauty and value of any home. Whether you’re installing hardwood, engineered wood, or laminate, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: How long does it take to install wood floors? The timeline depends on various factors, including the type of flooring, room size, subfloor condition, and acclimation time.
In this detailed guide, we will break down the step-by-step installation process, factors that influence installation time, and how to speed up the process.
Estimated Time to Install Wood Floors
The actual installation of wood floors can take 1-3 days for a single room, but the full process, including preparation and finishing, may take 1-3 weeks. Below is a breakdown of the estimated timeline:
| Installation Stage | Estimated Time Required |
|---|---|
| Choosing & Ordering Materials | 1-7 days |
| Acclimation Period (For Solid Wood) | 3-7 days |
| Subfloor Preparation | 1-3 days |
| Wood Floor Installation | 1-3 days per room |
| Sanding & Finishing (If Needed) | 2-5 days |
| Drying & Curing Time (For Stained Floors) | 3-7 days |
| Total Estimated Time | 1-3 weeks |
Step-by-Step Breakdown of Wood Floor Installation
Step 1: Choosing & Ordering Materials (1-7 Days)
Before installation begins, homeowners must select the type of wood flooring. Options include:
- Solid Hardwood – Classic, durable, but requires acclimation.
- Engineered Wood – More stable, can be installed quickly.
- Laminate – Budget-friendly, easy to install.
If materials are in stock, they can be delivered in 1-3 days. Custom or special-order flooring may take 1-2 weeks to arrive.
⏳ Estimated time: 1-7 days.
Step 2: Acclimation Period (3-7 Days, Required for Solid Wood)
Wood is sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, which is why solid hardwood must acclimate to the home’s environment before installation. The planks should be placed in the installation room with proper air circulation for at least:
- 3-7 days for solid hardwood.
- 24-48 hours for engineered wood.
- No acclimation needed for laminate.
Skipping this step can lead to warping, shrinking, or expanding after installation.
⏳ Estimated time: 3-7 days.
Step 3: Subfloor Preparation (1-3 Days)
A stable and level subfloor is crucial for a long-lasting wood floor. This step includes:
- Removing old flooring (carpet, tile, or old wood).
- Checking for moisture issues (wood and concrete subfloors should be dry).
- Leveling the subfloor (sanding high spots, filling low spots).
- Installing underlayment (if required for soundproofing or moisture control).
⏳ Estimated time: 1-3 days.
Step 4: Installing the Wood Flooring (1-3 Days per Room)
The time required for installation depends on the method used:
| Installation Method | Estimated Time |
| Nail-Down (Solid Hardwood) | 2-3 days |
| Glue-Down (Engineered Wood) | 1-2 days |
| Floating (Laminate & Click-Lock) | 1 day |
- Nail-Down Method: Requires nailing each plank to a wooden subfloor.
- Glue-Down Method: Used for engineered wood over concrete.
- Floating Floor Method: Fastest, as planks snap together without glue or nails.
⏳ Estimated time: 1-3 days per room.
Step 5: Sanding & Finishing (For Unfinished Hardwood) (2-5 Days)
If installing unfinished hardwood, sanding and staining are required:
- Sanding: Smooths the surface, takes 1-2 days.
- Staining (if desired): Adds color, takes 1 day.
- Applying Finish: Protective coats of polyurethane take 1-2 days, with drying time between coats.
Prefinished wood floors do not require this step.
⏳ Estimated time: 2-5 days.
Step 6: Drying & Curing Time (For Stained Floors) (3-7 Days)
If the floor is stained and finished on-site, it needs time to cure before furniture is moved back.
- Water-based finishes: 3-5 days to fully cure.
- Oil-based finishes: 5-7 days for durability.
⏳ Estimated time: 3-7 days.
Factors That Affect Installation Time
1. Type of Wood Flooring
- Solid hardwood takes longer due to acclimation, sanding, and finishing.
- Engineered wood and laminate install faster.
2. Room Size and Layout
- A larger home requires more time.
- Irregular layouts (hallways, closets) increase cutting and fitting time.
3. Condition of Subfloor
- Uneven or damaged subfloors add extra preparation time.
- Concrete subfloors require moisture barriers or glue-down installation.
4. Installation Method
- Floating floors (click-lock) are fastest.
- Nail-down and glue-down methods take longer.
5. Weather and Humidity Levels
- High humidity affects acclimation and drying times.
- Cold weather can slow adhesive curing.
How to Speed Up the Wood Floor Installation Process
✔ Choose Prefinished Wood: Avoid sanding and staining delays. ✔ Prepare the Subfloor in Advance: Ensure it’s level and dry before installation day. ✔ Use Floating Floors: Click-lock installation is the fastest. ✔ Hire Experienced Installers: Professionals work faster and avoid mistakes. ✔ Install During Dry Seasons: Reduces wood expansion or contraction issues.
Common Questions About Wood Floor Installation
1. Can Wood Floors Be Installed in One Day?
Yes, floating floors can be installed in one day, but solid hardwood may take longer due to acclimation and finishing.
2. How Soon Can I Walk on the New Floors?
- Prefinished floors: Immediately after installation.
- Site-finished floors: After 24 hours, but heavy furniture should wait 3-7 days.
3. Do I Need to Move Furniture Before Installation?
Yes, the area must be completely cleared before installation begins.
4. How Long Do Wood Floors Last?
- Solid hardwood: 50-100 years (can be refinished multiple times).
- Engineered wood: 20-40 years (limited refinishing options).
- Laminate: 10-30 years (not refinishable).
5. Can I Install Wood Floors Myself?
Yes, floating floors are DIY-friendly, but solid hardwood is best left to professionals.
How Long Does It Take to Install Wood Floors?
The installation process for wood flooring typically takes 1-3 days per room, but the full process, including acclimation, subfloor prep, and finishing, can take 1-3 weeks.
To ensure a smooth and efficient installation:
- Plan ahead and order materials early.
- Choose prefinished wood for faster results.
- Prepare the subfloor in advance.
- Hire professionals for high-quality installation.
With proper preparation, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting wood floors in your home without unnecessary delays!
