Preparing Your Home for a New Flooring Installation

If you’re having a new floor installed in your home, preparation is the key to ensuring a successful result.

Step One: Give the All Clear

The best way to start is to remove furniture and other items from the space where the new floor is to be installed. You should also include rugs, window treatments and wall decorations. The installers will need a clear, open space to work with no obstacles.

Step 2: Empty Closets

If the flooring will extend into closets, empty them out. The installers will need to work in those spaces unimpeded. Find another place in your home to store the closet’s contents where they can be accessible if needed.

Step 3: Clean the Area

Sweep and clean the existing floor thoroughly. This helps create a clean surface for the new flooring and ensures a proper installation. Some types of flooring material will require tearing out the existing floor. You may choose to perform this task to save cost, but it may be better to rely on a professional to perform the tear out and prepare the underlying surface for the installation.

Step 4: Arrange for Waste Disposal

Especially in the case of a tear-out of the old floor, you may need to arrange for a dumpster or coordinate with the installers on the disposal of old flooring materials. Check with your flooring provider to understand how waste disposal will be handled in your area.

Step 5: Notify Installers of Obstacles

If you’re aware of any potential obstacles or issues in the installation area, let the contractors and installers know ahead of time. This includes things like uneven surfaces, door clearance issues or areas requiring special attention.

Step 6: Provide Adequate Ventilation

Ensure there is proper ventilation in the installation space. This is very important, especially if adhesives or finishes are being used. Exposure to fumes from some commercial products can be harmful to you, your family and your pets. Good ventilation also can help speed up the drying process.

Step 7: Secure Your Pets

If you have pets, you’ll need to secure them in a different area of the house. It may be wise to consider having them stay elsewhere for the duration of the work. This ensures their safety and prevents interference with the installation.

Step 8: Access

Discuss access to your home with the installers. Make sure they have a clear path from their vehicle to the work area. If there are any building restrictions, communicate them in advance.

Step 9: Be Prepared for Noise and Dust

Floor installation can be a noisy process and may produce dust which can make its way into other areas. Be prepared for this and consider taking measures to minimize the impact on the rest of your home. You may need to seal the room off with plastic to keep dust contained, and in the case of home office use, noise may be a concern during work hours.

Remember to communicate with your flooring installer ahead of time to ensure you are both on the same page regarding preparation for your installation. This will help the entire process go more smoothly.

Contact us today for a free design consultation to discuss your new flooring installation needs.