Installation

Calgary Hardwood Flooring Installation

Installing a solid hardwood floor in your home will always be a good investment because this type of floor never goes out of style and can be repaired, refinished and re-coated multiple times. Our hardwood floor installation process guarantees your floor will look amazing and last a lifetime.

Depending on your choice of flooring, the process may differ slightly. Engineered floors or pre-finished floors will not require a staining process, while hardwood floors will. With that in mind the overarching process remains much the same and will include:

1. Pre-installation walk-through with the customer.
2. Floor Preparation - we can do this for you, or you can do it yourself. This step will include removal of the existing flooring and will require that the fridge, stove, doors, toilets, and sinks are removed from the workspace. Baseboard removal is optional, but if they are left on there is a chance, they could get some stain on them. You can leave the dishwasher in place.
3. Floor installation – When conducting Calgary Hardwood Flooring Installation, we initiate the process by precisely laser-aligning the first row. The subsequent installation method—whether it involves nailing, gluing, or a combination of both—depends on the specific characteristics of your floor and the underlying base. Our approach adheres to established standards to determine the most appropriate method for your flooring installation needs.
4. Customer walk-through - With customer will occur after the floor finishing on a hardwood floor.
5. Touch-ups - Bull Tough Flooring typically completes hardwood flooring installation projects under 500 sq. ft in under two days and projects averaging 1000 sq. ft in three-to-five days.

The final cost of your project will depend on a number of factors, so we don’t use a specific dollar per square foot to calculate your quote. The job is broken down into various stages and priced accordingly. We offer a high-quality service and the final product, so you should naturally expect our prices to be above average.

Why Choose Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood flooring is one of the most timeless and durable flooring options available. Unlike other flooring types, hardwood can be refinished multiple times, ensuring that it retains its beauty for decades. Here are some reasons why homeowners and businesses choose hardwood flooring over other materials:

• Longevity – With proper maintenance, hardwood flooring can last for generations.

• Aesthetic Appeal – It provides a warm, natural look that complements various interior designs.

• Easy Maintenance – Unlike carpets, which trap dust and allergens, hardwood floors are easy to clean and maintain.

• Increases Property Value – Homes with hardwood flooring tend to sell faster and at higher prices.

Types of Hardwood Flooring

When selecting a hardwood floor, there are several options to consider. Each type has its own unique characteristics, advantages, and considerations:

1. Solid Hardwood Flooring

• Made from a single piece of wood, usually ¾-inch thick.

• Can be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifetime.

• Comes in different species like oak, maple, cherry, and walnut.

• Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways but not recommended for areas with high moisture, like bathrooms or basements.

2. Engineered Hardwood Flooring

• Constructed with multiple layers of wood and a hardwood veneer on top.

• More resistant to moisture and temperature changes compared to solid hardwood.

• Can be installed above, on, or below grade, making it versatile for basements and kitchens.

3. Prefinished vs. Unfinished Hardwood

• Prefinished: Comes factory-finished, which means it’s ready for installation without additional sanding or staining.

• Unfinished: Requires on-site finishing, offering more customization options for stain color and texture.

The Hardwood Flooring Installation Process in Detail

Installing a hardwood floor requires precision, skill, and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the installation process we follow at Bull Tough Flooring:

Step 1: Pre-Installation Walk-Through

Before we start, we conduct a detailed walk-through with the client. This helps us:

• Understand the scope of the project.

• Identify any potential challenges.

• Discuss customization options like wood species, stain colors, and finishing preferences.

Step 2: Floor Preparation

Proper floor preparation is essential to ensure a flawless installation. This step includes:

• Removing Existing Flooring: Old flooring must be removed to create a clean and even base.

• Clearing the Space: The homeowner should remove furniture, appliances, and other obstacles.

• Subfloor Inspection & Leveling: Any uneven areas must be corrected to prevent squeaks and gaps.

• Moisture Testing: We check for moisture issues, as excessive moisture can cause hardwood to warp.

Step 3: Installing the Hardwood Flooring

Depending on the type of hardwood chosen, we use one of the following installation methods:

• Nail-Down Installation – Best for solid hardwood, this method involves nailing the planks directly to a wood subfloor.

• Glue-Down Installation – Common for engineered hardwood, where planks are glued to the subfloor.

• Floating Installation – A click-and-lock system used for engineered hardwood that does not require nails or glue.

Step 4: Sanding & Staining (For Unfinished Hardwood)

If the client chooses unfinished hardwood, we sand the surface to remove imperfections and apply custom stains to match their desired look.

Step 5: Finishing & Sealing

We apply protective finishes such as oil-based polyurethane or water-based sealants to enhance durability. This process ensures:

• Protection against scratches and spills.

• A glossy or matte finish, depending on the client’s preference.

Step 6: Customer Walk-Through & Final Touch-Ups

Once the floor is fully installed and finished, we invite the client for a final inspection. We ensure:

• All details meet the client’s expectations.

• Any minor touch-ups are completed before finalizing the project.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Hardwood Flooring Installation

Several factors determine the final price of a hardwood flooring project:

1. Type of Wood

• Exotic hardwoods like Brazilian cherry or tigerwood cost more than traditional options like oak or maple.

• Engineered wood is often more affordable than solid hardwood.

2. Square Footage

• Larger spaces require more materials and labor, affecting the overall cost.

• Smaller rooms may have higher per-square-foot costs due to labor-intensive cuts and trims.

3. Subfloor Condition

• If the subfloor requires significant repairs, additional costs may apply.

• Uneven or moisture-damaged subfloors need professional leveling before installation.

4. Finishing Options

• Prefinished wood reduces labor costs, while custom stains and finishes may add to the price.

• High-gloss or matte coatings also vary in cost depending on the product used.

5. Additional Services

• Furniture Moving & Baseboard Removal: If needed, this will add extra labor charges.

• Custom Inlays & Borders: If a client wants unique designs, the price increases accordingly.

Hardwood Flooring Maintenance Tips

After installation, proper maintenance is key to preserving the floor’s appearance and longevity. Here’s how to take care of your new hardwood floors:

Daily Maintenance

• Sweep or use a microfiber mop to remove dust and dirt.

• Avoid using excessive water when cleaning, as moisture can damage the wood.

Weekly & Monthly Maintenance

• Use a wood-friendly cleaner to remove deeper dirt and grime.

• Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.

• Use area rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear.

Long-Term Maintenance

• Recoat the finish every 3-5 years to maintain its shine and durability.

• Sand and refinish the floor every 10-15 years if needed.

• Address spills immediately to prevent staining or water damage.

Why Choose Bull Tough Flooring?

At Bull Tough Flooring, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier hardwood flooring installation services in Calgary. Here’s why clients trust us:

✔ Over a Decade of Experience – We’ve installed countless hardwood floors with precision and expertise.
✔ High-Quality Craftsmanship – Our attention to detail ensures a flawless finish.
✔ Customer Satisfaction Guarantee – We work closely with clients to exceed expectations.
✔ Competitive Pricing – While our rates are above average, the quality and longevity of our work make it a worthwhile investment.