Who doesn’t love new floors? They’re probably one of the easiest ways to refurbish your space.But before you dive headfirst into your flooring project, there’s something you must know.
A flooring overhaul involves a lot more than choosing materials and browsing DIY videos. There’s a whole list of pre-installation groundwork that can make or break your project.
Without proper preparation, your flooring might be installed incorrectly, leading to:
- Uneven surfaces
- Mold and rot
- Reduced lifespan
- Premature cracking and warping
- Increased costs from repairs
You don’t want that, and neither do we. That’s why we’ve put together an ultimate checklist that covers everything you need to know to get your new flooring installed hassle-free.
Let’s dive in!
Evaluate Current Flooring
Before you can start laying down new floors, you need to assess the condition of your existing flooring.
Look for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or staining. Pay special attention to areas with heavy foot traffic, as they may show more wear and tear. Signs like moisture, mold, and rot can indicate underlying problems.
Next, identify any areas that need repairs before the new flooring can be installed. For example, you may need to fill cracks, sand down uneven spots, or address moisture issues.
Decide if the existing floor needs to be removed entirely or if the new flooring can be installed directly on top of it. If you’re unsure, consult a professional flooring contractor to assess the best course of action.
Choose the Right Flooring Type
Your choice of flooring material should align with your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences. A few popular options include:
Hardwood: Hardwood floors have been around for years, and they don’t seem to be going out of style anytime soon. They’re suitable for almost all spaces and can be refinished multiple times.
Laminate: If you’re looking for something more cost-effective and easy-to-maintain, we’d recommend laminate. It mimics the look of hardwood but is more budget-friendly.
Tile: Being durable and water-resistant, tile is perfectly suited for kitchens and bathrooms. It also comes in a wide variety of styles and colors to match any decor.
Carpet: Carpet is a great choice for areas that need warmth and comfort, such as bedrooms and family rooms.
Vinyl: Like laminate, vinyl is water-resistant, easy to clean, and comes in designs that resemble more expensive flooring types.
To decide between different flooring materials, look into their lifespan and maintenance requirements. Consider the wear and tear each type will endure based on your household’s activity level. For homes with kids and pets, laminate or tile might be more suitable than hardwood.
Measure the Space
Accurate measurements are the cornerstone of a successful flooring installation. The last thing you’d want is to run out of materials in the middle of your project.
Start by using tape to measure the length and width of each room where you plan to install new floors. Be sure to stay close to the walls and record measurements to the nearest inch.
Account for additional spaces like closets, hallways, and irregular shapes that might not fit the standard room dimensions.
Next, you can draw a simple floor plan to visualize the space. Sketch each room, including doorways and any built-in furniture that might affect the flooring layout. Note down all the measurements on your diagram.
Budget Planning
While this might seem like an obvious step, many homeowners often overlook the total cost of a flooring renovation project. Budget planning is essential to ensure you have enough funds to last you through the home floor installation.
Once you determine how much material you’ll need, calculate the costs. Check prices from different suppliers and choose the best option that fits your budget and quality expectations. If you’re hiring professionals, include their fees in your budget. Get quotes from multiple installers to find a reliable, yet affordable option.
Remember to account for additional costs that might arise during the project, including underlayment and baseboards. You may also need tools, like a saw or a flooring nailer, if you’re doing it yourself.
Be prepared for potential unexpected costs like repairing subfloor issues or buying extra materials in case of mistakes. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund—typically around 10-15% of your total budget—to cover these surprises.
Select a Reputable Installer
Sure, you can tackle your new floors yourself. However, keep in mind that flooring installation takes specific skills and tools. Without the proper expertise, you risk making costly mistakes that could lead to uneven flooring, gaps, or other issues that may shorten the lifespan of your new floors.
Flooring contractors have the experience and equipment needed to do the job correctly the first time. Although they cost more upfront, they can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
Start by looking for installers or contractors with good reviews and a solid reputation. Check online sites, and read testimonials on their websites. Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar work done. Personal referrals can often lead you to reliable and skilled professionals.
Also, see that the installer you choose is licensed and insured. Don’t settle for the cheapest option; look for the best value for your money instead.
Schedule the Installation Date
For the installation, choose a date that works well for both you and your contractor. Discuss your availability and consider any personal commitments that could affect the installation process.
It’s also important to allow enough time based on the scope of the project. Larger areas or more complex flooring replacements might require several days, so make sure your schedule can accommodate this
You may need to take some time off work and adjust your daily routine during the installation. Being present on-site will let you supervise the process and clarify your queries with the contractor quickly.
Order Flooring Materials
It’s best to order your flooring materials well ahead of the planned installation date. This way, you have a buffer in case of unexpected delays or stock issues. Contact your supplier to confirm the availability of your chosen materials and get an estimated delivery time.
Upon arrival, carefully check the condition of the materials. Look for any damages, defects, or discrepancies in your order. If you find any issues, contact your supplier immediately to arrange for replacements or corrections.
Prepare for Installation
When you’re ready for your new floors, prepare the space by removing all furniture, decorations, and personal items. Store these in another room or, if space is limited, consider renting a storage unit temporarily.
Next, sweep and vacuum the floors to get rid of dust, dirt, and debris. Pay special attention to corners and edges where dirt tends to accumulate. Additionally, make sure the room is completely dry; dampness can cause issues like mold and warping in the future.
It’s likely your new flooring installation will take more than a day, although the actual timeline will vary based on the size of the space and how many installers are doing the job. Your contractor should be able to give you an estimated completion date.
Address Subfloor Issues
A solid and clean subfloor creates the perfect base for a smooth floor installation. Rip up the existing flooring and inspect the subfloor for any damage or irregularities. Repair or replace any worn-out sections, and make sure the subfloor is level.
You can also have your contractor handle the subfloor inspection.
Plan for Disposal of Old Flooring
Decide whether you’ll remove the old flooring yourself or hire professionals. If you choose to do it yourself, make sure you have the necessary tools, such as a pry bar, utility knife, and safety gear.
Be prepared for the physical effort involved, especially with heavier materials like tile or hardwood. If the task seems too daunting, hiring professionals can save you time and effort, and they’ll often handle disposal as part of their service.
You can also find out about local disposal regulations and recycling options for old flooring materials. Many areas have specific guidelines for disposing of construction waste. Arrange for a dumpster rental if you have a large amount of waste, or identify local recycling centers where you can drop off the materials.
Final Inspection and Walkthrough
After the installation is complete, inspect the work closely. Look for any issues such as gaps between flooring pieces, uneven areas, or any visible damage. Take a closer look at the edges and corners. If you chose a patterned or grouted flooring, check for consistency and alignment.
Walk across the floor to test for any squeaks or areas that feel unstable. Discuss the problems with your installer and ensure all issues are resolved before making the final payment. A reputable contractor should be willing to fix any mistakes, no questions asked.
The Bottom Line
There you have it; your comprehensive checklist for a successful flooring installation. Now that you know how to prep for your flooring project, you should have no trouble moving ahead with confidence.
Or, just reach out to the OMG Kitchen & Bath team. We make flooring installations simpler, stress-free, and oh-so-easy! Contact us or visit our showroom to explore our range of flooring materials and start your home transformation journey today.