Are you looking for a durable and affordable home flooring option that won’t fail you on the long run? Installing new flooring is a major investment and for most homeowners a big expense. Here are a few tips to make sure your new flooring is properly installed, attractive and, most importantly, long-lasting.
First, consider the area where the flooring will be installed. What kind of traffic, moisture and weight the flooring will be exposed to? Some rooms, like the kitchen or bathroom may require a moisture-resistant material to prevent damage and deterioration. For heavy traffic areas such as the entryway, a sturdy material is essential.
Second, it is essential to choose the right type of flooring material for your needs. Carpet can be a great option for bedrooms, but would not be ideal in a high moisture environment like a basement. Generally, vinyl, laminate and tile will be the best option for areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Third, if the flooring is going to be installed over an existing floor, make sure the existing floor is completely clean of dirt and debris prior to installation. Poor preparation will introduce more dirt and debris that can damage your new flooring.
Fourth, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines explicitly. Never assume that you already know how to lay the material, especially if it is unfamiliar to you. Understand the measurements, temperature, humidity, and other site conditions to ensure that your flooring will last.
Fifth, provide adequate support for the flooring before, during and after installation. Proper support is essential to prevent sagging, bending or other deformations over time.
Sixth, do not rush the installation and take the necessary time to properly and accurately measure the area, layout the patterns, and properly cut the materials for the best possible fit.
Finally, let the flooring settle in the environment by opening the space up to free flowing air after installation. Controlling the ventilation and temperature will help avoid changes and shrinkage due to humidity and temperature fluctuations.
When it comes to sure-fire home flooring, investing in quality and durability is key. Make sure that you choose a material that will not easily break or be damaged by moisture and weight. Rugged and water-resistant materials like vinyl are ideal for wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. For extra protection, install a matting over frequently stepped-on areas or a carpeted surface for bedrooms.
If you’re considering installation of a hardwood floor, make sure to understand what type of wood is required and recommended for your area. Keep in mind that solid hardwood requires additional reinforcement as opposed to an engineered hardwood. Additionally, determine what type of finish best suits your desired look. For ultra-modern settings, builders may opt for glossy finishes, while more distressed applications may require a more rustic and matte finishing.
When applying tiles, ceramic, stone or any other type of flooring material, make sure you choose the most appropriate setting and adhesive material. Use waterproof adhesives in moist environments and always apply sealants, stones and grouts before installation to avoid unnecessary moisture exposure. Additionally, when using tile for floors, make sure to use spacers to even out grout lines for strength and durability.
When it comes to DIY installation, hiring a certified installer with experience in the material you’ve chosen is essential. A proper contractor should be able to provide professional advice on the best way to tackle the project and take into consideration any unforeseen difficulties or challenges.
Speaking of challenges, when it comes to carpet installation, assess the area for cuts and inflections made to allow for obstructions such as stairs and corners. Check the stairs have proper backing and seam allowance and make sure you have a professional attachment to patch any cuts made into the carpet sections.
When it comes to concrete, make sure the material chosen is suitable and appropriate for the area. Most concrete products available in commercial settings are extremely dense, and may even require additional support to withstand weights and stresses of high traffic areas. To make sure the flooring still looks great, use joint and crack fill material to prevent moisture or water from seeping in.
Finally, when using packing materials such as foam, felt paper or underlayment, make sure you’re getting accredited, professional quality materials. Uncertified underlays can lead to seepage and sour undertones, while skimping on quality glue, sealants and fillers can lead to weak attachments and joints. Make sure the underlayment fits snugly in the space and that no empty spots remain.
Installing the right flooring can be a daunting task, but with a bit of research and understanding one can easily attain a beautiful and durable floor that can stand the test of time. Make sure your flooring looks good, feels good and lasts long.