Renovations can be exciting! They can also be stressful.

You’ve been staring at those old floors for a long time. And now, it’s time to do something about it.

But where do you start? Planning your flooring project seems like an easy task … until you decide to do it. Suddenly, there are more tasks than you know how to manage. Where do you start? How do you ensure you don’t miss something? We have some ideas for you.

Determining Your Flooring Needs

Most people have some idea of what they need before starting a flooring project. We may have an eye on hardwood or know that tile will be perfect in the space.

This is your starting point. But don’t be afraid to venture out of that thought process either. Sometimes what flooring you need will surprise you – you might end up with something you’ve never imagined before.

That’s why it’s best when starting a flooring project to first understand your specific needs. This means considering various factors to ensure you choose the right type of flooring that matches your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.

Evaluate your space. Different rooms have different requirements. For high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, you’ll need durable materials such as tile, laminate, or vinyl. Bedrooms and living areas might benefit from the comfort and aesthetic appeal of carpet, hardwood, or engineered wood. In moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms, water-resistant options like tile or vinyl are ideal.

Pay attention to your lifestyle. Your daily activities and lifestyle will greatly influence your flooring choice. Active households with kids, pets, or frequent visitors should opt for flooring that can withstand wear and tear. If you have allergy concerns, hard surfaces like hardwood, tile, or vinyl are easier to clean and keep allergen-free compared to carpets.

As a part of your lifestyle choices, you should also consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your floors. If you prefer low maintenance, options like laminate, vinyl, and tile are generally easier to care for. Hardwood and natural stone may require more upkeep to keep them looking their best over time, but longevity might be something you’re ready to consider.

And, of course, you’ll have to keep your budget in mind. Budget is a crucial factor in any home improvement project. Flooring costs can vary widely, so it’s important to set a budget that covers material costs, installation fees, and long-term maintenance expenses. Investing in high-quality materials might save you money in the long run by reducing repair and replacement costs.

You’ve Chosen Flooring – Now Assess Job Site Needs

Choosing your flooring might seem like the most difficult part, but it’s merely the beginning of your flooring project. Assessing your job site involves detailed planning and preparation to ensure a smooth installation process. Here’s what you need to consider:

Floor Measurements

Your installer will come in and measure for professional results, but you can do it yourself in the beginning for planning purposes. Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful flooring project. Measure the length and width of each room, including closets and other nooks, to determine the total square footage. It’s a good idea to add 10 percent to your total to account for cuts, waste, and mistakes. Some homeowners choose to add in spare materials for the “just in case” down the road.

Subfloors

Yes, your subfloors matter. Check the condition of your subfloors before installation. The subfloor provides the foundation for your new flooring, so it must be clean, dry, and level. Any imperfections, such as cracks or uneven areas, should be repaired to prevent issues with the new flooring. Depending on the type of flooring you’ve chosen, you might need additional underlayment to provide cushioning or moisture protection.

Removal of Existing Flooring

Plan for the removal of your existing flooring. This can be a labor-intensive process, especially if the old flooring is glued or nailed down. Determine if you need professional help or if it’s a task you can handle yourself. Proper removal and disposal of old flooring materials are essential to prepare the site for the new installation. Ensure you have the necessary tools and equipment to complete this task efficiently.

Consider Transitions

Unless you’re planning your flooring project to include an entire level of flooring, you’ll be dealing with transitions. Transitions between different types of flooring or different heights need careful consideration. You’ll need transition strips or moldings to create a seamless look and prevent tripping hazards. These transitions are particularly important in doorways, between rooms, and where different flooring materials meet. Planning for these in advance ensures a polished and professional finish to your flooring project.

Project Timelines For Different Flooring Materials

That’s a lot of work to complete your flooring project. And yet you have a deadline in mind. Maybe you want to finish the project before a big work project starts. Or before the big party you’re planning next month.

We’ve got you covered. Yet be aware that it does take time depending on what flooring materials you select. Here are a few general guidelines:

Hardwood Flooring

• Preparation and acclimation: 3-7 days
• Installation: 3-5 days
• Finishing and curing: 2-3 days
• Total time: 8-15 days

Laminate Flooring

• Preparation: 1-2 days
• Installation: 2-3 days
• Post-installation: 1 day
• Total time: 4-6 days

Vinyl Flooring (including luxury vinyl tile/plank)

• Preparation: 1-2 days
• Installation: 1-2 days
• Post-installation: Same day (generally no curing time needed)
• Total time: 2-4 days

Tile Flooring

• Preparation: 1-2 days
• Installation: 2-4 days
• Grouting and sealing: 1-2 days
• Total time: 4-8 days

Carpet Flooring

• Preparation: 1 day
• Installation: 1-2 days
• Post-installation: Same day
• Total time: 2-3 days

Engineered Wood Flooring

• Preparation and acclimation: 1-3 days
• Installation: 2-4 days
• Post-installation: 1 day
• Total time: 4-8 days

There are other factors to consider.

Once you select your flooring, it might take days or weeks to order, depending on how much material you’ll need, and the availability here at our retail center.

Factor in weekends too. If a project is started late in the week, finishing work might not occur until the following week.

You should also plan for delays. Sometimes problems occur. The installer drops a box and the product breaks. Or they find a problem with the subfloor.

The more you plan, the more you’ll minimize delays and ensure a smoother installation. Yet things can happen. Plan for it, and you won’t stress if it happens.

Planning Your Flooring Project Starts Today

Do you feel better about your timeline? Getting the floors of your dreams can be exciting. Just think how good your home will look.

If you’re ready to get started on your flooring project, we’re ready to help. Stop by today and see our complete line of flooring. We know the perfect product is waiting for you here.

How can we help?