Welcome to Kacey's Carpet & Tile, your premier destination for quality hardwood flooring in North Versailles, PA, and surrounding areas. With over 32 years of experience, we understand the importance of not only providing top-notch products but also valuable information to help you make informed decisions about your home.
Today, we delve into a common yet crucial question among homeowners: which direction should hardwood floors run?
How to determine the direction you lay your hardwood floors
Choosing the right direction for your hardwood flooring can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality of your space. It's a decision that requires careful consideration, taking into account factors such as room size, layout, and personal preference.
Let's explore some key pointers to help you navigate this decision-making process seamlessly.
Consider the layout of the room
The layout of your room plays a pivotal role in determining the direction of your hardwood floors. For instance, in a long, narrow room, running the flooring parallel to the longest wall can create an illusion of depth and make the room appear more spacious. Conversely, in a square room, running the planks diagonally can add visual interest and make the space feel larger.
Take a note of natural light and traffic flow
Take note of the sources of natural light in your room and the direction of foot traffic. Generally, it's advisable to install hardwood floors perpendicular to the direction of incoming sunlight or perpendicular to the main entrance. This helps to minimize the appearance of seams and enhances the flow of natural light throughout the space.
Architectural Features:
Pay attention to any architectural features or focal points in the room, such as fireplaces, doorways, or bay windows.
Aligning the hardwood flooring with these features can create a sense of harmony and continuity, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the room.
Maintain consistency throughout the home
If you're installing hardwood flooring throughout multiple rooms or levels of your home, aim for consistency in direction to create a cohesive look and feel. This ensures a seamless transition from one space to another and contributes to a unified design scheme.
Now that we've outlined some essential considerations, let's address the frequently asked question: should hardwood floors run parallel or perpendicular to the joists?
Should hardwood floors run parallel or perpendicular to the joists?
The case for installing your wood floors perpendicular vs parallel
When installing hardwood floors over a wooden subfloor, it's generally recommended to run the planks perpendicular to the floor joists for optimal stability and structural integrity. This helps to distribute weight evenly and minimize the risk of sagging or buckling over time.
However, if your subfloor is made of concrete or plywood, you have more flexibility in choosing the direction of the flooring installation.
Call on Kacey’s Carpet & Tile for beautiful wood flooring in North Versailles, PA
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which direction hardwood floors should run. It's essential to assess your specific space, taking into account factors such as room layout, architectural features, and personal preference. If you're unsure about the best course of action, don't hesitate to seek guidance from our experienced flooring professionals at Kacey's Carpet & Tile.
Ready to transform your space with beautiful hardwood flooring? Contact us or visit our showroom in North Versailles, PA, serving Mckeesport, Irwin, Elizabeth, Level Green, Penn Hills, and beyond. At Kacey's Carpet & Tile, we're committed to providing top-quality flooring solutions and expert guidance to help you achieve your home improvement goals.
