Installing new flooring is an exciting upgrade that can enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. However, proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient installation process. Whether you’re installing hardwood, laminate, tile, carpet, or vinyl, these steps will help you get your home ready:
2. Empty Closets and Cabinets
If flooring is being installed in closets or rooms with built-in shelving, remove all items from lower shelves or anywhere that could be affected by dust and movement. In kitchens or bathrooms, clear out cabinets and remove small appliances.
3. Take Down Wall Hangings and Fragile Items
Vibrations from the installation process can cause wall decor and fragile items to shift or fall. Remove artwork, mirrors, and other fragile decorations from walls and shelves in the work area.
4. Create a Clear Path for Installers
Ensure there is a clear path from the entryway to the installation area. Move any obstacles, including rugs, plants, and other household items. If flooring is being installed upstairs, make sure stairways are free of clutter.
5. Check for Subfloor Issues
Inspect your subfloor for any damage, moisture issues, or uneven surfaces. Some installers will handle minor subfloor prep, but significant repairs may need to be addressed beforehand to prevent future flooring problems.
6. Plan for Dust and Debris
Flooring installation can generate dust and debris. To minimize cleanup, cover vents, close doors to other rooms, and use plastic sheeting to seal off areas not being worked on.
7. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Some flooring materials, such as adhesives for vinyl or carpet, may emit strong odors. Open windows and turn on fans to keep fresh air circulating throughout your home.
8. Confirm Installation Details with Your Contractor
Before installation day, go over important details with your flooring contractor, including:
Expected timeline
Additional preparation requirements
Removal and disposal of old flooring
Warranty and maintenance instructions
9. Make Arrangements for Pets and Children
The noise and disruption of flooring installation can be stressful for pets and young children. Consider arranging for them to stay with a friend or family member during the process.
10. Plan for Temporary Disruptions
If flooring is being installed in a high-traffic area like the kitchen or bathroom, prepare for limited access. Set up a temporary kitchen or plan meals in advance to minimize inconvenience.
GENERAL INFORMATION AFTER INSTALLATION
Post installation walk through
After installation be sure to thoroughly examine the job with your installer to ensure your satisfaction before they leave your home.
In order to ensure full compliance with your warranties, be sure to utilize only the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning products with your new flooring. Ask your flooring professional to provide you with the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guide.
Touch Ups
Due to the stiff nature of certain flooring materials, even with our installers’ best efforts, it is possible that walls an baseboards could be scratched during installation. Any retouching or repainting will be the responsibility of the customer.
Clean Up
After installation, the installers will remove all waste from flooring and any other installation related trash onsite.
The removal of your existing floor and installation of your new floor covering will create some dust that cannot be avoided. We recommend thorough cleaning after the installation is completed.
Proper Ventilation
New flooring and installation materials can often affect indoor air quality. Ventilate your home both during and for 72 hours following installation. If practical, we recommend you open all the windows and utilize the fan in your cooling and heating systems, keeping in mind that you should maintain a consistent temperature of at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit for 48 hours after installation.
By following these steps, you’ll help ensure a smooth and hassle-free flooring installation process. Proper preparation not only makes the job easier for the installers but also helps protect your home and belongings. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the fresh look and feel of your new floors!
Are you planning a flooring upgrade? Reach out to us and we can assist you every step of the way!
