Out with the old, in with the new ... floor

"Oh, don't worry Martin, you can do it yourself." That encouragement from neighbors sounded good so I decided to save the $1020 bid to remove the old floor and install the new laminate. After looking at 10-15 samples, we decided on one and our neighbor gives a "neighbor" discount (I knew the prices and it was a discount) so I placed the order and committed myself to do the job.

Jared was a great help on day one where the carpet was removed from the dining area (10 minutes) and the old wood was removed ONE PIECE AT A TIME with a chisel and hammer (12 hours total). Last look at the "old".

I saved some of those few sections that came up 4-5 pieces at a time. I am going to mount them on cork and use them as glass coasters.

We didn't actually mean to have it look like Utah but that's the way it happened as the last section was coming out.

Mike who sold me the flooring was very helpful. He came over when I first started and gave me several helpful hints on getting things lined up to make sure the area started off right. Dennis D loaned me his table and chop saws that were the core of the tools but others were borrowed from two other neighbors. I asked Mike how long it would take an experienced installer to do the job and he said likely one long day. Oh it was one long day allright --- to get the first eight boards installed! It took me five days to get the job done but at my wage it was a good deal.

The biggest challenge was in the bannister area in the entrance hall. I cut the piece below but couldn't get it around the post so I had to cut it (the cut piece, not the bannister) in one place. It still came out looking quite good. The entrance hall and dining area put stresses on the area by the coat closet so I had to glue some boards (it is an interlocking and free floating floor) to each other to get them to stay together.

As with many remodeling projects, once you start it there are areas that need to be also updated and this is no exception. I purchased 400 feet of baseboard moulding that now needs to be stained and sealed to complete the job. Having done that type of job in the basement, I can do that without too much problem.

For now, we are pleased with the new look. I think it will suit us just fine. Louise is finishing off the decorating with selecting some rugs to give it a completed look.

Let's see, where should we go with that $1020 we saved? Not to worry, it will be spent.