The cost of installing Monarch flooring depends on several factors, including the size of the home, the type of installation, and the complexity of the floor shape. The Monarch plank price for installation can vary from $3 to $22 per square foot, depending on the type of Monarch planks. The total cost for a 500-square-foot floor can vary from $1,500 to $10,000. This cost does not include the Monarch plank price when purchasing the flooring.

To save money on the installation, here are a few things you can do:

  1. Remove the old flooring yourself. Do this in a way so that the base is not damaged. For example, if you have carpet, remove all the carpet, including the tags and nails. This can save you money as the professional does not have to spend half a day removing your old flooring.
  2. Remove dirt and debris.  Make sure the area where the flooring is to be installed is clean, dry, and ready to be refloored. 
  3. Remove all furniture from the room. This can also save you a significant amount of money since the professional installer will not have to do it.

Acclimatize the Flooring

It is highly recommended that before installing the Monarch flooring, you acclimatize the planks to the temperature and humidity of your home. Get the Monarch flooring delivered to your home and place the package in the room where it will be installed. 

Remove the outer packaging, expose the planks, and leave them in the center of the floor for 2-3 days before installation. For best results, keep the home temperature between 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and the humidity between 45-65 percent.

It is possible that failing to properly acclimate Monarch wood flooring may result in excessive shrinkage, expansion, structural damage, or distortion in the dimensions.

Should I Install the Flooring Myself?

Of course, you are free to install the flooring yourself but consider this decision carefully. Monarch flooring does come in wider and longer planks than other floorings. Good technique and skills are vital for proper installation. 

If there are any gaps, water or dirt can seep in through the cracks and cause damage. If this occurs, your warranty will not be valid. Since you have already paid the Monarch plank price for the flooring, it is recommended that you have a professional do the installation. Selecting someone who does this for a living can give you peace of mind.

Best Time to Install Monarch Flooring

While flooring can be installed all year round, experts recommend that the best time to install flooring is during the spring and fall seasons. During this time of year, there is a small amount of moisture in the air and the temperatures are mild. 

This type of weather tends to lead to even placement of the planks and there will be less risk of swelling or contraction of the planks. During and after the Monarch flooring installation, the humidity should be maintained between 45-65 percent. It is highly recommended that you invest in a meter that can reliably and accurately monitor the humidity in your home. 

When Can I Walk on the Monarch Flooring after Installation?

Strong adhesive glue is used to anchor the planks to the floor. This glue takes about 6-12 hours to cure. Hence, the earliest time you can walk on the flooring is about 12 hours after the process has been completed. If you start to walk on it right away, some of the planks may slightly sink in and could cause unevenness in the flooring. Furniture should not be moved in for at least 3-4 days after Monarch flooring installation.

How Do I Maintain Monarch Flooring?

Once you purchase Monarch flooring and have it installed, you will be given a booklet on maintenance. It is highly recommended you read the guidelines on maintenance. Here are a few things about the care and maintenance you need to know:

  1. Only use cleaning supplies recommended by Monarch.
  2. Always use a soft brush to sweep away the dirt and debris.
  3. If you use a vacuum cleaner, make sure it is recommended by Monarch. Vacuums with heavy wheels can damage the finishing.
  4. If there are any liquid spills, clean them up right away.
  5. Use a microfiber rag to wipe dust and mop up liquids.
  6. Trim the nails of your pets.
  7. Place rugs in areas where children and pets play and sleep.
  8. Rotate the furniture to avoid direct sunlight falling in the same place every day.
  9. Place rugs in areas of heavy foot traffic so that they can catch any debris and dirt coming in.
  10. Ask everyone who enters your home to take off their shoes.
  11. Keep the home humidity between 45-65 percent.
  12. Avoid wet mopping and do not use home-based cleaners, like oils, detergents, and waxes.

Conclusion

Floors can easily last several decades if you choose professional Monarch flooring installation and keep the flooring well-maintained. Since the maintenance does depend on the type of finish, make sure you speak to a representative regarding what supplies you can use and what you should avoid.  To get all your questions answered, call the professionals at East Coast Flooring & Interiors today at 1.954.321.5721.