Thinking of ways to upgrade the look and feel of your space? There are many ways homeowners can do this. Rearranging furniture and adding a rug and a few pieces of decor can already do a lot for a space. But if you are looking for a way to achieve a significant transformation that can enhance the aesthetic and functional value of your space, not to mention improve your home’s resale value, changing your flooring is a project you should start planning.
Whether you are thinking of a sleek hardwood, a cozy carpet or an elegant tile, planning a flooring project can bring with it some headaches and stress that normally comes with any project. But with proper planning, especially with the help of a remodeling contractor company, your project will surely turn out the way you have envisioned it to be.
Here is a comprehensive guide to help you with your project.
Planning a Flooring Project
Assess your needs and lifestyle
Before looking into flooring options, it is wise to take a step back and assess your lifestyle and the needs of the space you want to upgrade.
Consider the following:
- Foot traffic: Is the space a high-traffic area? If it is, then you need to look at durable materials
- Moisture levels: Is the space often exposed to moisture or water? If yes, then you have to consider waterproof or water-resistant flooring.
- Comfort and warmth: If you are planning to upgrade your living room or any of your bedrooms, consider soft carpets or hardwood.
Establish a budget
Different flooring projects vary greatly in terms of cost. Establish a realistic budget that you can work on. It should include:
Materials
If the budget is a little tight, laminate or vinyl are two of the affordable options. Otherwise, high-end hardwood is an expensive but beautiful choice.
Labor
If you plan to hire professionals, this can add significantly to the overall cost of the project. However, nothing can replace the quality of work and efficiency of a flooring contractor. Besides, doing it yourself can come with costly mistakes.
Additional cost
Adhesives, trim, and removal of old flooring can lead to additional expenses.
Remember that a clear budget will help you narrow down your choices and help you avoid overspending.
Research flooring options
Now that you have a budget, you can start exploring different flooring materials.
Hardwood is popular for its timeless beauty and durability. However, it can be costly not a good option for a space with a high moisture level. Carpet offers insulation and comfort but it is harder to maintain than others.
Laminate is a more affordable alternative to hardwood, but it is not as durable
Tile is available in different styles, is easy to clean, and is not sensitive to moisture.
Vinyl is water-resistant, affordable, and versatile
You can browse home magazines or go to Pinterest and search for room and flooring inspiration to help you decide which option is best for your envisioned space and budget.
Flooring companies can usually help you with design and help you choose the best material for your project.
Request samples from flooring companies
Look for a few flooring companies who will be willing to send you a small product sample of your chosen material for free or at a low price. This will give you an idea of the color, thickness, and texture of the product.
Measure your space
Make sure that you take accurate measurement of your space. Multiply the length and the width of the space to get the area of the space. Add 10% for possible mistakes. Check your computation. Your accurate measurement will help you purchase the right amount of flooring and avoid waste.
Choose between professional installation or DIY
DIY may seem more affordable and fun. In reality, mistakes can be costly and the challenges are not for everyone. Hiring professional installers may turn out to be more cost-efficient and will surely give you better results.
Set Your Plan into Motion and Bring Your Vision to Life
A flooring project may sometimes seem challenging, but with good planning and the help of professionals, you can achieve the look and feel that you have always envisioned for your space. Start bringing your vision to life by scheduling a consultation with a flooring contractor today.