What’s the first type of floor that pops into your mind when you think of a home? Surely, it’s hardwood. That warm, classic ambiance of hardwood floors is impossible to deny.
And it’s why so many people are thinking about renovating their floors. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as going to the store and plopping down the money to buy some hardwood.
In this guide, we’ve prepared a list of 5 of the most common floor renovation mistakes that people commit and how you can steer clear of them in your project. Let’s go!
1. Not Planning Ahead
If you’re considering a floor renovation project, it’s essential to sit down and make a well-thought-out plan, so you don’t run into issues later on. For example, if you live in an area with high humidity, you’ll need to choose a flooring material that can withstand moisture.
If you expect high traffic, you’ll need to choose something durable, such as tile flooring. While carpet is a common choice, note that it can be challenging to keep clean.
2. Not Budgeting Properly
When you don’t budget appropriately for a floor renovation, you may end up having to go with lower-quality materials or cutting corners to control your spending.
As a result, this can compromise the outcome of your project. Thus, it’s essential to have a realistic budget that accounts for all aspects of the job, from materials to labor, including maintenance costs.
Once your floor renovation budget is in place, stick to it as closely as possible to avoid any unpleasant surprises down the road.
3. Not Prepping the Surface Properly
A successful floor renovation requires proper preparation of the surface, making sure it is clean, level, and free of any debris. Many homeowners fail to recognize the importance of this step.
As a result, while they may manage to install new flooring, it will not adhere properly and cause many problems down the road. The floor is also likely to show signs of wear and tear prematurely.
4. Not Following Manufacturer’s Instructions
All new options for flooring come with the manufacturer’s instructions that must be followed in the letter. The purpose is to ensure that the renovation will be successful.
The worst thing about not following these instructions is that any warranties in place will be completely voided. That simply means you won’t be able to benefit from them, regardless.
5. Not Fixing Gaps
Not taking the time to fix gaps in your flooring is one of the most common renovation mistakes. These gaps can be caused by a number of things, including poorly installed flooring, movement in the foundation, etc.
Regardless of the cause, gaps in your flooring can lead to severe problems, such as tripping hazards, drafts, and moisture damage. To avoid these problems, take the time to properly repair any gaps in your flooring before proceeding with your renovation.
Avoid These 5 Floor Renovation Mistakes!
These are just a few of the many floor renovation mistakes that can occur during a home project. The most important step you can take to avoid all of them is to simply hire a professional to do the job.
Home improvement projects are exciting, but floors are one of those areas that you should leave to the experts. So unless you’re ready for a whole new set of costs and inconveniences if you mess up the project, hire a pro from the get-go.
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