Hardwood
Hardwood Nail-Down Installation
Expert installation and craftsmanship, serving the GTA & Ottawa.
HardwoodHardwood
Nail-down is the traditional and most widely used method for solid hardwood installation. Using a pneumatic floor nailer, cleats are driven through the tongue of each board into a wood subfloor at precise intervals. The result is a stable, authentic hardwood floor with excellent longevity.
We acclimate the wood, snap chalk lines for layout, install a starter row, then nail through each subsequent board's tongue. Thresholds, transitions, and base trim are installed to finish.
Where it works & how it’s applied.
Where to Use
- 01Living rooms
- 02Bedrooms
- 03Hallways
- 04Dining rooms
- 05Main floor renovations
Common Use Cases
- 01New home construction
- 02Full floor replacements
- 03Carpet-to-hardwood conversions
- 04Heritage home restorations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between nail-down and glue-down hardwood installation?
Nail-down installation uses cleats or staples driven at an angle through the tongue of each board. It's the traditional method for solid hardwood over wood subfloors. Glue-down uses full-spread adhesive and is preferred for concrete subfloors or engineered hardwood. Nail-down allows the floor to expand and contract naturally with seasonal humidity changes.
What type of subfloor is needed for nail-down hardwood?
Nail-down hardwood requires a plywood subfloor at least ¾" thick and structurally sound. Concrete subfloors require a glue-down or float installation method instead. We inspect and prepare your subfloor as part of every installation.
How long does hardwood installation take?
A typical 500 sq ft room takes 1–2 days for installation. Add 1–2 days for sanding and finishing if you choose unfinished hardwood. Pre-finished hardwood is ready to use the next day. Total project time depends on room size, layout complexity, and finish type.
Do I need to acclimate hardwood before installation?
Yes. Solid hardwood should acclimate in your home for 3–5 days before installation so the wood adjusts to your home's humidity and temperature. We coordinate delivery and staging as part of our installation process.
