Steps in the Flooring Installation Process
A new floor can make a room look and feel brand new. A licensed flooring professional can offer free estimates. In addition to aesthetics, new flooring has other benefits for your home. Old carpets can trap mold spores, pet dander, lead, and other harmful pollutants. New flooring can help you breathe easier and stay healthy.
There are many steps in the flooring installation process. These steps include the preparation of the subfloor and the installation of new flooring. Many flooring companies will also charge for moving furniture and disposing of old flooring. Depending on the type of floor and the size of the room, the quote may vary. The number of workers may also be different.
Before installing the flooring, measure the room. If the floor is long, start by installing it parallel to the longest wall. In the case of narrow spaces, you may have to install flooring parallel to a focal point in the room. When laying the flooring, remember to leave a 3/8-inch gap along the wall to allow for expansion. After the floor is installed, install the baseboard on the first and last row.
It’s important to hire an experienced flooring installer. Installing a new floor can be a costly project, and any mistakes can cause more expensive repairs. You should also take the time to prepare the subfloor properly before installing your new flooring. Ensure that the subfloor is dry, clean, and free from stains. Proper preparation will maximize the lifespan of your new flooring.
When installing new flooring, remember to level the subfloor and use a special adhesive. The thickness of your new floor should be about half the thickness of the old. Many homeowners opt for laminate flooring because it is easy to clean, relatively cheap, and durable. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles. If you choose wood flooring, consider the environmental benefits.
Before installing your new flooring, make sure the subfloor is dry, clean, and flat. In some cases, you can install hardwood flooring over an old floor covering. However, it is recommended that you remove the old floor covering and baseboards before you install the new flooring. A clean, flat subfloor will make the flooring installation process go much more smoothly.
Once the subfloor is prepared, you can choose your flooring. For example, if you want to install hardwood flooring, you’ll need to prepare the subfloor using hardwood or a joist-level plywood. Then, the subfloor will be covered in a decorative covering. It’s important to check for any structural issues with joists before you lay the subfloor. Afterward, the installation process is fairly quick.
When installing new flooring, it’s important to consider that the new floor will raise the floor level by about 3/8″ from the old one. While this may not seem like a big deal, the new height could interfere with door swings. Additionally, floor-length drapes and blinds may touch the new floor.