Installing unfinished hardwood floors is one of the most rewarding DIY projects a homeowner can undertake. The result — a custom-finished floor with a seamless, professional appearance — is worth the effort. This complete guide walks you through every step of the process, from subfloor preparation to the final finish coat.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installation Tools
- • Flooring nailer or stapler
- • Miter saw and table saw
- • Tape measure and chalk line
- • Pry bar and pull bar
- • Moisture meter
- • Rubber mallet
Finishing Supplies
- • Drum sander and edge sander
- • Abrasives (36, 60, 80, 100, 120, 220 grit)
- • Stain and applicator cloths
- • Finish (water-base or oil-base polyurethane)
- • Lamb's wool applicator or T-bar
- • Tack cloth
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Acclimate the Wood
Store the unfinished hardwood in the installation room for 3–5 days. This allows the wood to adjust to the room's temperature and humidity, reducing movement after installation.
Prepare the Subfloor
Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, flat (within 3/16" over 10 feet), and structurally sound. Nail down any squeaky areas and fill low spots with floor leveling compound.
Install the Flooring
Snap a chalk line parallel to the longest wall. Install the first row face-nailed, then use a flooring nailer for subsequent rows. Leave 1/2" expansion gap at all walls.
Sand the Floor
Sand with a drum sander using 36-grit to level the floor, then 60, 80, and 100-grit. Use an edge sander for perimeter areas. Finish with 120-grit for a smooth surface.
Apply Stain (Optional)
Apply your chosen stain with a cloth or brush. Allow to penetrate for 5–15 minutes, then wipe off excess. Let dry completely before applying finish.
Apply Finish
Apply 2–3 coats of water-base or oil-base polyurethane. Sand lightly with 220-grit between coats. Allow the final coat to cure for 24–48 hours before light foot traffic.
Michigan-Specific Tips for DIY Unfinished Hardwood
Michigan's climate creates specific challenges for DIY unfinished hardwood installation. Here's what to know before you start:
Acclimate Longer in Winter
Michigan winters are extremely dry (RH 20–30%). Acclimate unfinished hardwood for 5–7 days in winter — longer than the standard 3–5 days — to allow the wood to fully adjust before installation.
Test Subfloor Moisture Carefully
Michigan basements and slab-on-grade floors can have elevated moisture. Use a pin-type moisture meter on wood subfloors (target below 12% MC) and a calcium chloride test on concrete (target below 3 lbs/1000 sq ft/24 hrs).
Sand on a Dry Day
Sand and finish on a day with low humidity (below 60% RH). Michigan summer humidity can slow finish dry times and cause adhesion issues. Check the forecast before scheduling your finishing day.
Use Water-Based Finish in Summer
Water-based finishes (like Fabulon Brilliant or Bona Traffic HD) dry faster than oil-based in Michigan's humid summers. Oil-based finishes are better suited for Michigan's dry winter months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unfinished hardwood flooring?
Unfinished hardwood is sanded and finished on-site after installation, allowing for a seamless look and custom stain color. Unlike prefinished hardwood (which arrives with the factory finish already applied), unfinished hardwood lets you choose your own stain and finish sheen — and results in a floor with no beveled edges between planks. It's ideal for matching existing floors or achieving a specific aesthetic.
What finish should I use on unfinished hardwood in Michigan?
For Michigan homes, we recommend oil-based polyurethane (like Fabulon Classic or PoloPlaz Primero) for maximum durability and a warm amber tone, or water-based polyurethane (like Bona Traffic HD or Fabulon Brilliant) for a crystal-clear finish that dries faster. Water-based is the better choice for light-colored woods like maple and white oak. Quality Hardwoods of Michigan carries all major finish brands.
Where can I buy unfinished hardwood in Michigan?
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan in Rochester Hills stocks unfinished red oak, white oak, maple, hickory, and walnut in multiple widths and grades. We also carry all the finishing supplies you need — abrasives, stains, and finishes. Call (248) 853-2232 or visit our showroom at 1799 Northfield Dr, Rochester Hills, MI 48309.
Get Unfinished Hardwood and Finishing Supplies in Michigan
Quality Hardwoods of Michigan stocks unfinished hardwood, abrasives, stains, and finishes for your DIY project. Visit us in Rochester Hills.