New floors can bring a clean, updated look to any space. For the experienced DIY-er, nothing beats the feeling of satisfaction that comes from finishing a project, stepping back, and taking in the view of your job well done. Installing you own flooring is a labor of love that just might save you big bucks. However, whether you consider yourself an intermediate or expert DIY-er, you need to do your research and prepare before tackling any flooring project. Even the best laid plans can go awry without proper preparation! If a flooring project is in your future, take a look at these tips to help your floor installation go smoothly.
DIY Flooring Tip #1 – Do your research
First and foremost, you must make sure to do adequate research before jumping into any project. Look for tutorials, videos, and articles that break down the steps for your floor installation. Research the flooring that you plan to use (whether that is laminate, tile, engineered hardwood, etc.) and make note of the complexities that go along with that type of material. In addition to your online research, you can talk to professionals at your local home improvement store to get more information.
DIY Flooring Tip #2 – Get the right tools for the job
It’s vitally important to have the tools you need before you begin to install your floors. You don’t want to be in the middle of a project only to realize you don’t have the necessary items to finish the job. This will cost you valuable time and leave your project off track.
If you did thorough research, you should be able to create a list of the tools and materials you will need based on the specifics of your project. Keep in mind that each type of flooring installation is a little different, and that will affect the list of supplies you need to gather. These might include items like subfloor material, saws, hammers, spacers, tape measurers, safety googles, and more.
DIY Flooring Tip #3 – Set the time aside
Plan for ample time to complete your project. You may be tempted to declare, “We’ll get this done in one weekend!” But, it’s important to be realistic about how much you’ll be able to get done per day, and you should allow yourself wiggle room for when things take longer than originally expected.
Consider the type of flooring you’re working with as you plan your schedule. If it’s a flooring with a click system, such as laminate, it will take less time than flooring that’s being nailed or glued to a subfloor. Also consider the space. How big is the room you’re working with? Is there a lot of prep work involved; for instance, do you have to rip out old flooring or carpets before you can begin laying your new floors? Do you have a helper, or will you be going solo? Take these factors into consideration when you’re planning your work schedule.
Finally, rather than trying to cram your flooring project into a small window of time, consider planning to do some work on your project over several weekends. If it’s a space you can live without for a few weeks, spreading the job over a few weekends can save your sanity—and your back!
In Summary
Different flooring has different complexities, so it’s most important to research and prepare. If you’re dying for a new floor and up for a challenge, installing your own floors can be extremely rewarding. Take the time to plan your project, and you’ll be well on your way to new floors you can be proud of!
Buy Quality Flooring
If you’re ready for new floors, we’re ready to talk to you! Take advantage of the experts at JC Floors Plus. Whether you want laminate, tile, or hardwood, we have options for you. Let us help you find the perfect material for your DIY projects. Come see us at either of our Florida showrooms, or call us: