You
won't find many rooms or houses that are truly square.
It's not uncommon to have differences of 3/8" and more
from one side of a room to another. To offset the
difference, always think which is the main visual point.
Start your layout square to that particular wall or make
adjustments where the differences will hide under
baseboard or other trim used. Out of square is not an
issue if the flooring runs perpendicular to that area.
Parallel wall lines to the flooring direction is where
we need to be square.
Many specifications will suggest starting your hardwood
installation from the longest exterior wall. However we
realize this will not be the case at all times
especially for those installing a few rooms.
Which
Direction To Install The Floor?
For a more
desired appearance it is suggested to run the flooring
parallel the longest wall. Doing so always
creates a
larger room appearance. However, if we have
hallways and other rooms this may not prove to be the
best idea. A lot depends on how you perceive things and
what is more attractive to you. Generally, professionals
will install the flooring the longest dimension of the
layout. They have a better grasp on the norm and what is
more visually appealing. In many cases the flooring will
be installed front to back as you enter the home.
Other attractive layouts include diagonal installations,
commonly installed at a 45º angle. Diagonal layouts
provide a unique look not seen in many homes. Expect
additional waste using this layout method or another
5-10%.
Changing Direction Of The Installation
In some
cases a direction change may be preferred, especially if
you have long hallways that spill into other
rooms. In an example from another job, the customer
preferred the look of the flooring running front to back
when in the foyer entry. However, when turning into the
great room, the desire was running the longest dimension
as well. The change takes place in the center of the
opening dividing the two areas. |
