There’s definitely a thrill of anticipation when it comes to renovating your home. However, with flooring, the costs can often be sky-high. But you don’t have to choose between your dream renovation and your bank account: doing the flooring yourself can save you money. By equipping yourself with the right tools and gaining a bit of knowledge, you too can skip the expensive flooring companies and have beautiful, affordable floors in your home in no time.
The key to successful DIY flooring is preparation. Create a blueprint of the area you’re installing the flooring in and get the tools ready. The type of flooring you want – tiles, laminate, hardwood, etc. – will depend on your budget and the amount of time you want to invest. After you’ve determined which material to get, take precise measurements so you ensure you get the right amount of flooring materials.
When you’ve got your supplies and tools, the real work can begin. Before laying planks of laminate or hardwood flooring, vacuum and wash the surface area to ensure the new flooring sticks. To keep mess to a minimum, work one room at a time. Making cuts as you go will help you save time and material, and make sure each plank fits perfectly.
To ensure your materials are correctly sealed and protected, purchase the right sealant for the job. There are many kinds of sealants such as polyurethane, wax, and acrylic coatings that are specially designed for different materials. If your flooring planks need adhesive, again make sure you’ve got the right glue. Applying too much adhesive can leave a thick layer on the board surface and create a problem with the sealant.
In addition to sealants and adhesives, your tools will need to be suited for the specific best, from power saws to screwdrivers. Remember, safety first! Get yourself some safety goggles and a mask, and remember proper safety protocols for your saws and drills.
Having the right, quality tools will make the job faster and easier. You don’t have to stick with otherwise expensive hammer and nails or dust torturing heavy-duty saws. You can go for the modern tools including a manual tile cutter for ceramic or a precise jigsaw for hardwood planks. Though the cost will add up, the time and energy saved can be an extraordinary investment.
When selecting the wood, go for a reliable brand. The age-old concept of “you get what you pay for” couldn’t be truer when it comes to flooring. Purchasing sturdy flooring will save you from costly repairs or replacements down the line, and will wear better over time.
In theory, DIY flooring isn’t very difficult, but don’t be surprised if it takes longer than anticipated. Whether you’re doing the flooring yourself or seeking a professional’s help, having a plan in place can save a lot of frustration. With adequate preparation and the right tools, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting and budget-friendly home renovation.
When considering DIY flooring, think beyond hardwood. You don’t want to break your budget. Cheap, long-lasting alternatives to hardwood come in the form of tiles, laminate and vinyl flooring. With tiles, you can go for classic ceramic or modern porcelain for a stunning look. Laminate wood flooring is a durable option that looks a lot like real wood. And vinyl is a great choice for any room in the house: it’s waterproof, easy to install and very cost effective.
Finally, the added bonus of DIY flooring is that it’s eco-friendly. You’ll save money without wasting resources on hiring a professional contractor and you can recycle any leftover materials or donate them to someone in need.
Think about DIY flooring and you’ll certainly save some money. But what about the price of patience? Without knowing how to properly install flooring, you may end up wasting a lot of time and energy fixing your mistakes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! You can always enlist the assistance of a family member or even take some classes at your local home improvement store.
Have you ever heard of “floating” flooring? It’s the perfect combination of low cost and low maintenance. Floating floors are modular tiles and planks that fit together over a thin foam or film layer. With this type of flooring, very little grouting is required and, if need be, individual tiles or planks can be easily replaced.
Many hidden costs come into play when you renovate your home. From waiting on delivery and installation to paying for repairs in the future, these unique drawbacks can quickly add to your spending. Doing the flooring yourself can save you from all of the hassles and extra costs.
Moreover, if you don’t have a lot of experience, it’s best to start off with a small project like a hallway or a bathroom. Be realistic with the amount of time and energy the project will require. Doing this will give you some insight into the process and will help determine if a larger project is right for you.
So, whether you’re up for a small challenge or looking to save a few bucks on a grand-scale makeover, taking control of your home renovation project has never been easier – or more rewarding. From purchasing the right materials to getting assistance when needed, DIY flooring can be a very rewarding home-renovation experience.
You’ll certainly save money, but when correctly done, DIY flooring can also bring you satisfaction and accomplishment. Moreover, sprucing up a space with some fresh flooring can dramatically increase the value of your home.
Before you decide, do as much research as you can on the type of flooring you’re considering. Read up on the best way to prep the area, check the thickness measurements and know what color and texture of material will best suit the rest of the decor.
Don’t forget to factor in the costs of floor preparation, supplies and tools. Also, take into account the time you’ll need to budget for the job. Doing your homework could mean the difference between wasted time and money and a high-quality install that’ll last for years to come.
So, when it comes to flooring, don’t be afraid to do it yourself. With some patience, know-how and the right supplies, you can have beautiful floors in your home without breaking your bank. All it takes is a bit of hard work and a great plan in place.