Tips from a leading flooring expert
Ed’s tips if it comes to flooring:
Flooring is an investment in the value of your home, done correctly it adds considerable value however, a poor quality floor or improper installation will negatively affect your home’s resale value.
Here are some topics to keep in mind when shopping for your next floor:
Subfloor
Subfloor; what is underneath your current floor?
Once your previous floor has been removed, you will need to ensure your subfloor is level enough for the installation of the new floor. Some flooring products are more forgiving like carpet and vinyl, however if you are installing hardwood or laminate your substrate may require some levelling prep work.
Durability
Durability; how will your new floor hold up to daily life?
Some flooring products are better suited for different applications. Hardwoods and laminates do not hold up as well to water and moisture compared to vinyl and tile. If you have kids and pets, you may want to use a mold and mildew resistant under pad for your carpet.
Warranty
Warranty; what is the warranty on the flooring product you want to install?
Will your warranty be void if you install the product yourself. Certain products such as hardwood require you to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity range in your home to prevent moisture damage or cracking.
Baseboards
Baseboards; will your new flooring be a different thickness than the previous floor?
If yes, you will need to adjust the height of your baseboards and door trims. It is much easier to move your baseboards and door trim up to accommodate a thicker floor. If you are choosing a thinner floor, you may need to install new baseboards or add a level of plywood to your substrate to make up the height difference.
Accessories
Accessories; does your new flooring come with matching transitions, reducers, stair nosings and vents?
Does your floor meet up to existing flooring in your home or will it require a transition to be installed.
Installation cost
Installation cost; how much will the floor cost once you pay for the install and any required prep work?
Does this floor require an under pad or adhesive for proper installation and are these costs included in the price?
Soundproofing
Soundproofing; does this floor meet the noise dampening requirements set out by your strata?
Will you need to float your floor with a sound dampening underlay? Are you allowed to switch out carpet to a hard surface?
Do It Yourself flooring
Do It Yourself flooring; can I install this flooring myself?
The installation of most flooring products require expertise and specific tools. However, there are many flooring products on the market that are very easy to install, especially loose lay vinyl planks.
Design
Design; what is the look and feel you are trying to achieve?
Bring home a sample of the flooring you are interested in to see how it looks in your space. Lighting, furniture and paint colours should be considered when choosing the best floor for your overall home décor plan.
Ed has been installing floors for over 28 years and is known in the Sea to Sky region as a leading expert on flooring installation.
Ed Koop
Operations Manager
Wall2Wall Carpet & Flooring