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Originally Posted On: https://znetflooring.com/blog/7-important-tips-for-installing-new-floors/

Floor installation can be time consuming and difficult if not done properly. These are some important strategies and tips for installing flawless floors.

The demand for new flooring has increased throughout the United States, and it’s only going to continue to grow in the coming years.

If you’ve been considering installing a new floor in your home, now is the time to take action.

What’s holding you back from installing a new floor? Are you worried about how time-consuming or complicated the process will be?

If this is the case for you, keep reading. Listed below are some helpful tips that will make floor installation go a bit smoother.

1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TYPE OF FLOORING

The first step to a successful flooring installation is to choose the right type of material. There are tons of options to consider, including hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile.

Think about the area of your house that’s getting the flooring makeover, your budget, and your lifestyle (do you have kids or pets, for example?) when making your decision.

2. MEASURE YOUR ROOMS

Be sure to measure each room in which you’re planning to install new flooring. Then compare those measurements with the flooring you’re going to install. This will help you ensure you have enough material to cover your floors.

It’s a good idea to purchase a bit more flooring than you think you’ll need. That way, you’ll have extra in case you make a mistake, allow you to set aside a few pieces that may have a flaw, and ensure you have some available in case you need to make a repair in the future

3. INVEST IN THE RIGHT TOOLS

Make sure you have the tools you need to do the job properly. Some basic equipment you’ll need includes a hammer, screwdrivers, broom, floor scraper, a pry bar, and various saws including something for undercutting. If you don’t have these tools on hand, purchase or borrow them now so you don’t have to stop in the middle of the project to go pick something up.

4. KNOW YOUR SUBFLOOR

What kind of subfloor do you have in your home? Is it concrete? Wood?

Know what you’re working with to ensure you purchase the right type of flooring to cover it. Some flooring types may require an underlayment installed over your wooden subfloor, usually a 1/4″ smooth plywood for your gluedown vinyl products or a cement board for ceramic and porcelain tile products.

5. READ THE INSTRUCTIONS

This ought to be a no-brainer, but a lot of people skip this step. Once you’ve purchased flooring material, read the instructions from start to finish before you begin working. This will save you a lot of time and trouble later. You might even find some good instructional videos on YouTube, expect some links posted here in the future for various flooring installs.

6. LET THE MATERIAL ACCLIMATE

It’s a good idea to let the flooring material acclimate to the humidity of your home for a few days before you try to lay it down. This will ensure it fits properly and doesn’t warp or shift. Some of these newer waterproof vinyl products claim to not need acclimation, but installers still often times find a smoother installation if they do so.

7. LAY THE MATERIAL OUT FIRST

Be sure to lay out the material in the desired pattern before you start the installation process. This will help you visualize everything and help you develop a plan of attack, also possibly help you catch mistakes before you make them. This could also help you spot materials or supplies you may need to order before you need them.

GET MORE FLOOR INSTALLATION ADVICE

The floor installation process isn’t always easy. It’ll go much more smoothly, though, if you keep these tips in mind.

Are you ready to begin installing your new floor? Do you need to purchase supplies to get started? If so, we’ve got you covered at Znet Flooring.

Check out our selection of flooring options online today.

Whether you’re interested in hardwood floors, carpet, or anything in between, we’ve got tons of unique, high-quality options for you to choose from!