At what angle should hardwood flooring be installed?

Installing hardwood flooring at a 45-degree angle is often preferred for several reasons. This angle not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the flooring but also creates a sense of depth and perspective in the room. When hardwood is laid at a diagonal (45 degrees) to the walls, it can make narrow or small spaces appear larger, contributing to a more dynamic visual experience.

Additionally, installing hardwood flooring at a 45-degree angle can help mitigate the expansion and contraction of the wood due to changes in humidity and temperature, as it distributes stress more evenly across the floor. This technique can also make installation easier when dealing with irregularities in the room's layout or when installing over radiant heating systems.

Other angles, such as 30 degrees, 60 degrees, or 90 degrees, do not provide the same visual benefits or practical advantages in terms of stress distribution and room perception in hardwood flooring installations. Each of these angles has its own implications in terms of aesthetics and installation difficulties, making the 45-degree installation a versatile and effective choice.