Home renovation can be a stressful experience that can put even the strongest of relationships to the test. With all the flooring options and styles to choose from the question we often get is, "Where do we start?"
At Hands Down Flooring & Tile we want your experience to not only be stress-free, but enjoyable!
Without much further ado, let us share some simple tips to get you started in the right direction and hopefully take some stress out of your flooring project.
So, where does one start when setting out on the endeavor of home improvements??? First off, take a breathe and relax. If you find the right people to guide you through the process, you are off to a good start, which leads me to the beginning of your journey.
Step 1: Find the Right Installer!
Find a flooring installer that cares. Sure, you can get a good deal on sub-par flooring products at one of the "BOX" stores, but then you have to either find an installer or do it yourself. There are many reputable local companies out there that are passionate about the trade and care just as much about each and every customer as they do the check at the end of the project, but they are becoming fewer and far between.
I will be addressing the importance of finding the right installer in much further detail in my next post, as there are so many things to consider when it comes to installers. Questions to ask right away are the obvious ones. Is the installer licensed? How about insurance? What about reviews? Is the work warrantied? If they are cheap and can start tomorrow, "WHY?" This one is usually a big red flag.
Step 2: Discover Your Style!
Though this is second on the list, it is probably priority number one! What is your style? As mentioned before, there are so many options available to you, it can be overwhelming at times. Relax! Just look for that color scheme that appeals to you. Don't worry about what is "trending" or what the resale is. The trends will change before you sell and you are the one that is going to live with your decision. Choose the flooring that is right for you, as you are the one who is going to live with it and should enjoy it.
Step 3: What Type of Flooring?
What type of flooring are you looking for? Soft or hard surface? Carpet? Vinyl Plank? Tile? Laminate? Marmoleum? Hardwood? Flotex? AAAAAAHHHHHHH! So many choices! Where to start?
Start at the beginning. Start where your feet hit the floor. What comfort do you desire to feel on your feet? Is sound your concern? What about temperature? How easy is it to clean and maintain? There are just as many variables to consider as there are products to choose from. With just a little research one can find the answers they need to make this decision. Also, if you followed step one, you can sit down with someone at your flooring store and have a conversation about your specific needs.
Step 4: What Product Best Suites Your Home?
Now, we get to a very important aspect of selecting the right flooring for your home. As all homes are unique and have potential issues that need to be dealt with accordingly for each different type of product, this is going to play a major part in the selection of your flooring.
When it comes to a successful long lasting installation it is not only the quality of the product you need to consider. More importantly, it is what you don't see that makes the difference. The subfloor will often dictate what product is right for you. In some cases, the subfloor is just not flat enough for specific flooring products without excessive and expensive prep work. When it comes to this you really want to find a reliable flooring store/installer to assess the situation and guide you in the right direction.
Step 5: What is Your Budget?
Now, last but not least. What is your budget? When it comes to flooring products there is a wide range of price points. As the old adage says , "You get what you pay for!" It may sound cliche, but this is very true when it comes to flooring. You may want to save money on your flooring project as it can be a costly home improvement. One very important consideration is that your floor is the most used and abused part of your house.
So Many Questions!!! Relax & Take a Breathe!
So many details to consider when it comes to flooring. I know what you are thinking, "This guy brought up so many questions, but no answers!!!!" First and foremost, what I want you to get out of this article is to take a breathe and relax as you set forth on your flooring adventure.
I will be going into further detail on all these topics in future posts. For now just think about the questions you have and always feel free to give us a call or swing by Hands Down Flooring & Tile in Moorhead, Minnesota. We are always here to answer any question you have.
