Starting a flooring renovation is exciting, but proper preparation is essential to ensure everything goes smoothly. Whether you’re installing hardwood, tile, vinyl, or laminate, getting your home ready ahead of time can help prevent delays, protect your belongings, and make the installation process more efficient.
This guide walks you through the key steps to prepare for your upcoming flooring renovation project.
Evaluate Your Space and Timeline
Before your project begins, take time to assess the space and plan around your family’s schedule. Consider which rooms will be affected and how that might disrupt daily routines. For larger projects, it may be necessary to temporarily relocate or make alternative arrangements for cooking, sleeping, or access.
Communicate with your installer about the expected start and end dates so you can plan accordingly. Knowing the timeline helps reduce stress and prepares you for the short-term inconvenience that may come with a renovation.
Clear the Area and Remove Furniture
One of the first tasks before installation is clearing the space of furniture and personal belongings. Removing tables, couches, beds, and decor ensures the installation crew has full access to the floors.
You may also need to remove baseboards or transition strips depending on the type of flooring and the installer’s recommendations. If you’re unsure, consult with Boca Floors in advance.
Protect Adjacent Areas and Belongings
Flooring installations can produce dust and debris, especially when removing old materials. Cover adjacent furniture or rooms with plastic sheeting, and seal off vents if necessary to prevent particles from spreading throughout your home.
Consider relocating fragile or valuable items to a safe area. You may also want to protect wall corners and door frames from potential scuffs or nicks during the process.
Prepare the Subfloor
If you’re managing any portion of the project yourself, or just want to be informed, remember that the subfloor must be clean, level, and dry before new flooring is installed. Moisture issues or uneven surfaces can compromise the final result. Your flooring contractor may handle this step, but it’s important to ensure it’s done properly.
Some installations require underlayment or moisture barriers—especially for vinyl and laminate—so confirm the materials needed ahead of time.
Make Arrangements for Pets and Children
Installation day can be noisy and disruptive. To ensure safety, it’s best to keep children and pets away from the work area. If possible, make arrangements for them to stay with family or in a separate part of the house while the work is being done.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way in making your flooring renovation smooth and successful. By planning ahead, clearing your space, and working closely with your installers, you’ll be ready to enjoy your beautiful new floors without unnecessary delays or complications.
Need help getting started? Contact Boca Floors for expert flooring solutions and pre-installation support.