Flooring Renovation Checklist: How to Prepare for a Stress-Free Installation

Renovating your floors can be an exciting but daunting task. A smooth installation process starts with proper preparation, and we’re here to guide you through it. Here’s a handy checklist to help you get ready for your new flooring installation and ensure everything goes as planned.

1. Clear the Room

The first step in preparing for your flooring installation is clearing the space. Remove all furniture, rugs, and décor items from the room. Don’t forget to check closets and storage areas, too. If you need help moving larger furniture pieces, let your installer know in advance.

Tip: Use this opportunity to deep clean your furniture and organize the items you’ve removed.

2. Ensure the Subfloor Is Ready

Before new flooring is installed, the subfloor needs to be inspected and prepped. A stable, level, and clean subfloor is crucial for a successful installation.

• For hardwood or laminate: Ensure the subfloor is dry and free of debris.
• For tile: The subfloor may need special underlayment to ensure stability.
• For carpet: Make sure any existing padding is removed or replaced.

Tip: Your installer will usually check the subfloor, but if you’re doing it yourself, check for cracks or damage in advance.

3. Plan for Waste Disposal

Flooring renovations often create a lot of waste, including old flooring materials, adhesives, and packaging. Ask your installer if they handle waste removal, or plan for a dumpster rental or extra trash bins to handle the debris.

Tip: If you’re replacing old carpet or wood, consider recycling or donating materials that are still in good condition.

4. Secure Pets and Children

Flooring installation can take a few hours or even a few days, depending on the size of the project. During this time, it’s important to keep pets and children out of the work area for their safety and to prevent interruptions.

Tip: Plan ahead by designating a safe area in your home where pets and children can stay during the installation.

5. Confirm Details with Your Installer

A day or two before the installation, confirm the following with your installer:

• Start time and estimated duration of the project.
• Any specific requirements, like temperature settings for adhesives or moisture control.
• Special instructions for post-installation care.

Tip: Have a final walkthrough of the area with your installer to address any last-minute questions or concerns.

6. Plan for Noise and Dust

Flooring installation can get noisy, especially if old flooring needs to be removed. Dust is another consideration, particularly when cutting materials or sanding.

Consider staying elsewhere for the duration of the project if noise and dust will be an issue, or use protective covers on furniture in adjacent rooms to minimize cleanup afterward.

7. Prepare for Flooring Acclimation (If Needed)

Some types of flooring, such as hardwood or laminate, need time to acclimate to your home’s temperature and humidity. Make sure to have the flooring materials delivered a few days before the installation so they can properly adjust.

Tip: Your installer can advise on how long the acclimation period should be, typically 48-72 hours.

8. Protect Other Areas of Your Home

Installers will be moving in and out of your home during the process, so consider laying down protective coverings in hallways or rooms that aren’t part of the project to prevent scratches, dirt, or damage.

Tip: If you’re concerned about your walls, use painter’s tape to protect corners or areas where heavy equipment may pass through.

By following this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for a stress-free flooring installation experience. At MW Floors, we’re here to help every step of the way, from product selection to expert installation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact us today to get started!