How to Prepare Your Home for New Flooring Installation

Installing new flooring is an exciting way to enhance the look, feel, and value of your home. Whether you’re going with hardwood, vinyl, laminate, tile, or carpet, proper preparation is key to a smooth and successful installation process. At MW Floors, we want every project to go as efficiently and seamlessly as possible. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you get your home ready before the flooring crew arrives.

Clear the Area

Start by removing all furniture, decorations, and personal items from the rooms where flooring will be installed. This includes rugs, lamps, artwork, and anything else that might be in the way. Clearing the space allows the installation team to work efficiently and helps prevent damage to your belongings.

Remove Old Flooring (if necessary)

Depending on the type of flooring you’re having installed and your agreement with the installer, you may need to remove the existing flooring. Some installers include this in their service, while others may charge extra or expect it to be done ahead of time. Clarify this with MW Floors beforehand so you know what to expect.

Disconnect and Move Appliances

In areas like the kitchen or laundry room, you’ll need to disconnect and move appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers. Some flooring materials require full access to the entire floor, including beneath appliances. If you’re unsure how to safely move heavy items, consider hiring a professional or asking your installer for assistance.

Secure Pets and Children

Flooring installation involves tools, adhesives, and potentially loud noises—none of which are ideal for pets or young children. To keep everyone safe and minimize distractions for the crew, make arrangements to keep pets and kids away from the work area during the installation.

Prepare Doorways and Baseboards

Depending on the new flooring’s thickness, doors may need to be temporarily removed or trimmed to accommodate the change in height. Baseboards or quarter round may also need to be removed and reinstalled or replaced. Discuss these adjustments with your MW Floors team ahead of time so they can plan accordingly.

Ensure Clear Access

Make sure the installation crew can easily get in and out of your home. Clear driveways and entryways of any obstacles, and provide a path for transporting materials and tools. If you live in a multi-unit building, confirm any access policies or elevator reservations needed for the project.

Control the Indoor Environment

Some flooring materials, especially hardwood and laminate, require a controlled environment to acclimate properly. This typically means maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level for 48 to 72 hours before and after installation. Your MW Floors representative will let you know if this applies to your flooring type.

Cover and Protect Adjacent Areas

Installation can create dust and debris, even with the cleanest crews. Use plastic sheeting, painter’s tape, or temporary barriers to protect nearby rooms or areas of your home. You may also want to cover vents and close doors to minimize the spread of dust.

Communicate with Your Installer

One of the best ways to ensure a smooth installation is to have clear communication with your MW Floors team. Confirm arrival times, project timelines, and any specific responsibilities on your end. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or raise concerns before the work begins.

Plan for Downtime

Depending on the size of the project and the type of flooring being installed, certain areas of your home may be off-limits for a day or more. Plan meals, sleeping arrangements, and daily routines accordingly. If you’re installing flooring throughout your entire home, you might consider staying elsewhere temporarily.

Get The Right Flooring For Your Home

Preparing your home for new flooring installation doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and support from the pros at MW Floors, you can make the process smooth and hassle-free. Taking the time to properly prepare not only speeds up the installation but also helps ensure beautiful, long-lasting results. For questions, estimates, or to schedule your next flooring project, contact MW Floors today—we’re here to help from start to finish.