Planning your project
Preparing for a flooring installation
Modern Wood Flooring team · Published September 20, 2026
A smooth installation is mostly decided before the first box is opened. These are the questions worth settling early.
Subfloor
Concrete must be dry and level to the manufacturer's tolerance; plywood must be sound and fastened. Old adhesive, damaged boards or uneven patches are best dealt with before the new floor arrives.
Acclimation and climate
Wood products typically need time on site at normal living temperature and humidity before installation, and the building's heating or cooling should be running. Follow the manufacturer's stated requirements for the product you have chosen.
Building rules
Many apartment buildings require approved underlayment, working-hour limits, freight elevator booking and insurance certificates. Confirm these with management before scheduling.
The room
Clear furniture, remove doors if they will be trimmed, and plan where you will live while the work happens. Ask the installer how transitions to adjoining floors will be handled.
Installation scope, timelines and any measuring or delivery service are confirmed directly by our team for each project.
Floors this guide covers
Examples from the current catalog in these material families; specifications on each product page are as listed by the manufacturer.
Related guides
All guides- Planning your projectWhat affects the cost of a flooring projectMaterial is only one line. Preparation, removal, transitions and the building itself shape the total.
