Replacing the existing flooring in your home can often seem like a daunting task. However, it is often exactly the renovation project that will instantly make the biggest impact in your home. Refreshing floors in your living space is a great way to update your home and give it a new, modern feel. So, what are some signs that it may be time for you to replace your flooring?
Cost-benefit analysis is a key question to ask when deciding whether or not to invest in replacing your floors. Has the flooring become too worn, stained, or outdated? Do you have to invest time and effort every few years into patching up the existing flooring? Will replacing them now save you money in the long-run?
Take a good, hard look at your flooring. Are there scuffs, scratches, dents, or discoloration? Are the tiles lifting or has the grout come loose or is it discolored? Is the finish on the flooring wearing away? Is the color too outdated or dull? Are any of the boards, tiles, or planks damaged beyond repair? Do your carpets have an unpleasant smell? When assessing your floors, remember that it is the little details that matter.
Your daily routine should also help you in assessing whether you need to replace your home flooring. Do you constantly find yourself tripping on loose flooring? Do you have to resort to wearing hard shoes in the house to prevent your feet from aching and tiring? In order to keep your feet comfortable, are you resorting to putting rugs on top of the existing flooring?
It takes a keen eye to spot the changes that occur on your flooring over time. When deciding whether to invest in a replacement, pay attention to any changes in feel and texture while walking on your flooring. Is the flooring no longer smooth or comfortable underfoot? If so, this might be an indicator it’s time to upgrade and get the flooring replaced.
The best advice we can give is to not skimp out on quality. When selecting flooring, look for materials that are durable, non-slip, comfortable, and easy to install so that you do not have to face any strenuous floor renovations ever again.
When selecting a flooring expert, ensure that only vetted and approved flooring professionals are selected to work on your home. Make sure your chosen professionals commit to provide you with a warranty. Before the installation, take a walk through your home with them to review and agree on the terms.
It is also important to choose materials that are resistant to water damage, temperature changes, and humidity. For example, if you have a bathroom, select several waterproof flooring options such as cork, ceramic tiles, stone, or luxury vinyl tile.
When it comes to bedrooms and living spaces, laminate flooring and hardwood are both good options. Laminate offers an easy and budget-friendly solution whereas hardwood flooring comes with higher price tag but adds value and character to any home.
Whether you’re updating a single room or your entire house, you may be tempted to go for a D.I.Y solution. However, when it comes to flooring, it is often safest and most cost-effective to go with a reputable flooring firm that has experience in similar projects.
For additional flooring renewal ideas, consider investing in new rugs and carpeting. Bring in a variety of colors and textures to instantly amp up your room’s style with a minimal renovation effort.
If you’re thinking of replacing your home flooring, spend some time researching and asking around for professional advice on which materials are best for your home and budget. Taking time to compare quotes and technical specs can go a long way.
When you decide that you are ready to replace your flooring, plan several weeks ahead to ensure that your entire house is prepared and the replacement can run as smoothly as possible. For multiple installations, prioritize the areas that need it most.
Replacement is just the first stage of your flooring renovation. Take the time to consider the ‘after’ look you’re aiming for – a perfectly coordinated home with wall and accessories to match your newly installed flooring.
Think also of how you’ll maintain it and how you can prolong its life, whether by regularly cleaning, checking for buckling floor tiles, or properly matching dampening and leveling products.
Choosing materials should be done with care, and that means asking the proper questions in terms of slip resistance, wear ratings, and installation. Explore options such as laminate, luxury vinyl tile, wood, terrazzo, marble, and tile for their respective benefits and differences.
It’s also important to think about your home’s humidity. If you live in an area where it’s unusually humid, consider buying materials that offer better protection against moisture damage such as wood or luxury vinyl tile.
Understand that the cost of replacing your flooring depends on the type of material. This is determined by what grade of material you choose, the labor, and the contractors you hire. If you or someone in your home has allergies, consider flooring materials that do not contain toxins or particles that could be inhaled.
Before committing, understand the terms of your warranty. A good warranty should protect against any defects or damages that may arise from manufacturing or related to materials.
To ensure everything will look beautiful once the work is done, make sure you create (or draw) a floorplan of your home. This way, the professionals you hire can visualize the space, understand measurements, and plan accordingly.
If you plan to refinish your existing floors, ask your chosen professional about taking the time to sand and buff them. A stain finish will make hardwood floors extra special and give your home renovation the wow factor you’re after.
Finally, consider hiring the right professionals for your flooring project because there’s no room for guesswork or shortcuts when it comes to flooring. When doing your research, make sure that they follow industry and safety standards, are certified and trained, and have appropriate licenses. Plus, it’s a great idea to verify consumer reviews and testimonials from previous customers.
It is advised to budget the entire project before you start, taking into account the materials you intend to use, the labor involved, the finish of the floor, and any additional costs of the renovation plan.
To get a better idea of how the project will look once complete, you can supplement your project plan with computer-generated 3D visuals and renderings from your chosen flooring professionals.
Consider also the inconvenience your renovation may cause. If you intend to replace an entire house with hardwood flooring, try to arrange for friends or family members to stay with you during the work. Otherwise, be sure to plan for a few days for your family members to stay in a hotel or other temporary accommodation.
Renovating your home flooring is no small matter. The task is made even more difficult if you are unsure of which material to use and which company to hire—so make sure to do your research before diving in. Compare the pros and cons of various materials, browse samples, and ask for opinions.
Make sure you also factor in the specific conditions of your home, such as the climate and the level of moisture. Budget wisely and know the exact measurements of the area you intend to renovate to ensure you don’t buy too little or too much material.
For the best results, designate an area that is free from dust and debris for the installation crews to work in and do not forget to expect a bit of disruption to your normal day-to-day home life.
The first step is always the toughest, but don’t let that stop you from making the best decision for your home flooring. With the right materials, the right professionals, and the right plan, you can make your home look better than ever.