hard wood floors do-it-yourself? or tips and tricks to save money

[Robert Fornwalt]

I have watched tons of how to videos on installing hardwood floors. I have even helped install some when I did odd summer jobs back in school. just not sure from start to finish. I have gotten several bids on installation but I just kills me to pay for something I'm 70% sure I could do. is it posable to hire a contractor just for advice on layout and as problems arise? or any other advice would be great.

[Jeff V.]

@Robert Fornwalt

Robert,

I would suggest paying for the education on the first one.

For Example:

Hire a flooring contractor and see if you can negotiate a discount if you be his helper and assist in the project.  Even if you don't get a discount you will learn tips and tricks of the trade and it will get you to the finish line.  You will be able to see the entire project from beginning to end and on the next one you will be 100% sure that you can do the job or not based on this experience.

You will solve several problems in the process:

You will be sure that the job gets done correctly.

You will learn how to do the job yourself.

You may save some money on this job.

You will be more confident in your ability to do future jobs of so inclined.

You may decide that its more trouble than its worth trying to do this yourself when there are people who can do this quicker and more efficient than you and at a better quality for a fraction of the cost of the time it will take you to do it yourself.

Either way it will be a good learning experience and you will know exactly what it takes to get the job done and how much your willing to pay for said work.

Hope this helps.

Jeff V