When it comes to flooring, making the wrong choice or installation mistake can result in costly repairs and early replacements. Whether you’re installing new floors in your home or business, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can damage your investment. Understanding these mistakes and how to avoid them will help you make better decisions and achieve a more durable and beautiful flooring outcome.
In this blog, we will explore the top 5 common flooring mistakes homeowners make and offer practical solutions on how to avoid them, ensuring that your floors look great and perform well for years to come.
1. Choosing the Wrong Flooring for the Space
One of the most common flooring mistakes is choosing the wrong flooring material for the space. Not every type of flooring works well in every environment. For example, hardwood floors may not be the best option for basements or bathrooms, where moisture levels are high. On the other hand, waterproof flooring such as SPC or luxury vinyl is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
-
Consider moisture levels: In areas prone to moisture, choose waterproof flooring like SPC flooring, luxury vinyl planks (LVP), or ceramic tiles.
-
High-traffic areas: For high-traffic areas, choose durable flooring like engineered hardwood or laminate flooring, which can handle wear and tear.
-
Aesthetic considerations: Make sure the flooring complements the décor and functionality of the space.
Explore Parma Flooring’s SPC collection and engineered hardwood to find flooring solutions that suit different spaces.
2. Skipping Proper Subfloor Preparation
Subfloor preparation is an often-overlooked but critical step in the flooring installation process. Failing to properly prepare the subfloor can lead to uneven surfaces, gaps, or floor movement after installation, which can cause your flooring to wear down prematurely. If the subfloor is not level or clean, it can cause serious issues with the floor’s appearance and durability.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
-
Ensure the subfloor is level and clean: Before installing flooring, check that the subfloor is level, clean, and dry. Any debris, moisture, or unevenness should be corrected to ensure proper installation.
-
Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about subfloor preparation, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional installer who can ensure the subfloor is properly prepared for the flooring type you’ve chosen.
If you’re unsure about the installation process, Parma Flooring offers professional advice and services to ensure proper subfloor installation and preparation.
3. Not Acclimating Your Flooring Before Installation
Whether you’re installing hardwood, engineered wood, or even vinyl planks, acclimating your flooring to the room’s temperature and humidity is crucial. Failure to do so can cause your floors to expand, contract, or warp once they’re installed, leading to gaps, buckling, or cracks.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
-
Acclimate the flooring: Leave the flooring material in the room where it will be installed for 48-72 hours before installation. This allows the material to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity levels.
-
Read manufacturer instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for acclimating the flooring material, as different types of flooring may have different requirements.
If you’re installing engineered hardwood or laminate, make sure to acclimate it to avoid potential expansion or contraction issues.
4. Installing the Flooring Without Considering the Room’s Lighting
Another common mistake is not considering how the room’s lighting will affect the appearance of the flooring. Natural light and artificial light can alter the way the color and texture of the flooring material look. For instance, dark-colored floors may look even darker in rooms with limited natural light, while lighter floors may appear too bright in well-lit areas.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
-
Consider lighting when choosing color: If the room has poor lighting, consider lighter flooring options to make the space feel more open and brighter. If the room gets plenty of natural light, dark floors may add depth and warmth.
-
Test flooring samples: Before committing to a particular flooring material, test a sample in the room to see how it looks under different lighting conditions.
Explore Parma Flooring’s European Oak Collection for flooring options that work well in various lighting conditions.
5. Ignoring the Maintenance Requirements of Your Flooring
Each type of flooring has its own maintenance requirements. For example, hardwood floors require regular refinishing to keep them looking pristine, while vinyl flooring is much easier to maintain with minimal effort. Failing to properly maintain your floors can result in scratches, stains, or premature wear.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
-
Research maintenance needs: Before choosing flooring, research the maintenance requirements for each type. Make sure you’re ready to commit to the upkeep required for long-lasting floors.
-
Use the right cleaning products: Always use cleaning products that are suitable for your flooring material to avoid damage. For instance, use a wood-safe cleaner for hardwood floors or a vinyl-friendly cleaner for luxury vinyl floors.
If you’re unsure about how to properly maintain your floors, Parma Flooring provides expert advice on the best floor care products and maintenance practices.
Conclusion
Avoiding common flooring mistakes ensures that your floors not only look great but also last longer. By properly preparing the subfloor, acclimating your materials, and considering the room’s lighting, you can enjoy beautiful, functional flooring for years to come. Choosing the right material and committing to its proper care will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your floors looking pristine.
At Parma Flooring, we offer a wide range of durable flooring options that are perfect for every home. From engineered hardwood to laminate, we can help you choose the right flooring that suits your style and needs.
Contact us today to get personalized recommendations based on your needs, or request a wholesale inquiry for bulk pricing and options. Our team is here to help you find the perfect flooring solution for your home!
