Discover the essential steps for commencing your first row of Cordalera flooring. This approach is the proven and reliable way to achieve outstanding results, regardless of your house’s squareness. To assist you, there’s a video on the right (in video format), along with written instructions below. We strongly recommend following this method to ensure a professional-looking installation, even if your house measurements are not perfectly aligned. A level and straight floor, whether it’s Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) or hardwood, is crucial to achieving the best possible final appearance

  • First, you are going to need to measure the walls – using an outside wall to begin measurements.
  • Using the measurements you will then divide in half example: an outside wall from left to the inside wall is 14′ and the outside wall from right to the inside wall is 13′ 9″
  • Now you must find a new middle
  • 14′–> 13′-9″ that is 3″
  • Then you take the 3″ and divide by half which is 1.5″
  • 14′ minus 1.5″ and 13′-9″ add 1.5″
  • Measurements should be now 13′-10.5″ and 13-10.5
  • So you go off the outside wall and measure up to 6′-11.75″
  • after you have your middle you then run a line down side to side
  • Finally, you then can move the starting place by measuring back the same from the chalk line.

Having your flooring straight when starting the first row is crucial for several reasons:

  1. Aesthetics: A straight first row creates a visually appealing and professional look for your flooring. It sets the foundation for the rest of the installation and ensures that the pattern and design of the flooring align properly, enhancing the overall appearance.
  2. Ease of Installation: Starting with a straight row simplifies the installation process. It provides a clear reference point for laying subsequent rows and minimizes the need for adjustments or corrections as you progress, saving time and effort.
  3. Alignment: If the first row is not straight, it can result in uneven gaps or overlaps between planks or tiles in the subsequent rows. This misalignment can be noticeable and detract from the finished appearance.
  4. Stability: A straight first row contributes to the stability of the entire floor. It helps distribute weight evenly across the flooring material, reducing the likelihood of gaps, creaks, or other structural issues over time.
  5. Trim and Moldings: Straight flooring makes it easier to install baseboards, moldings, or transition pieces. These finishing touches will fit better and look more polished when the flooring beneath them is straight.
  6. Avoidance of Waste: A straight first row minimizes the risk of having to cut and waste flooring material to fit irregular or uneven spaces, which can be costly.
  7. Resale Value: A well-installed, straight floor enhances the overall value of your property. Potential buyers or tenants are more likely to be attracted to a professionally finished flooring installation.

In summary, starting with a straight first row is essential for achieving a high-quality, durable, and visually pleasing flooring installation. It ensures that the rest of the installation process proceeds smoothly and results in a floor that looks its best and stands the test of time.