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Top Mistakes to Avoid When Buying New Floors for Your Home

October 07, 2024 Author: Express Flooring
couple in new home with new flooring
Buying new floors for your home is a significant investment, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of selecting the perfect style and color. However, without proper planning and consideration, you could make costly mistakes that might affect the durability, functionality, and overall satisfaction with your new flooring. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when purchasing new floors and how to avoid them. By following these tips, you can ensure that your new floors are a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle.
 

1. Not Considering Your Lifestyle

When it comes to choosing flooring, one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is selecting a material based solely on its appearance. While aesthetics are important, it’s crucial to consider how the flooring will perform under the demands of your lifestyle. For example, if you have a busy household with pets and children, you’ll need flooring that is durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. On the other hand, if you live alone or in a quieter environment, you might prioritize comfort and style.

Express Flooring Solution: At Express Flooring, we offer a wide range of flooring options designed to meet the needs of different lifestyles. Whether you need something durable for a high-traffic area or something luxurious for a cozy bedroom, our experts can help you find the perfect match.
 

2. Ignoring the Subfloor

The subfloor is the foundation of your flooring, and its condition plays a critical role in the performance and longevity of your new floors. A common mistake is overlooking subfloor preparation, which can lead to problems such as uneven surfaces, squeaks, and moisture damage. Without a proper subfloor, even the highest-quality flooring can suffer from premature wear and tear.

Express Flooring Solution: Our professional installation services at Express Flooring ensure that your subfloor is properly prepared before the new flooring is laid. This attention to detail helps prevent future issues and guarantees a smooth, long-lasting installation.
 
 

3. Overlooking Room Functionality

Different rooms in your home have different requirements when it comes to flooring. For example, a kitchen or bathroom needs flooring that is moisture-resistant and easy to clean, while a bedroom might prioritize comfort and warmth. Installing the wrong type of flooring in a room can lead to problems like water damage, discomfort, or increased maintenance.

Express Flooring Solution: Express Flooring offers free expert consultation services to help you choose the right flooring for each room in your home. Our team will guide you in selecting materials that are not only beautiful but also functional for the specific needs of each space.
 

4. Neglecting Long-Term Maintenance

Every type of flooring comes with its own maintenance requirements. Some floors, like hardwood or natural stone, may need regular upkeep to maintain their appearance and durability, while others, like vinyl or laminate, are more low-maintenance. Homeowners often make the mistake of choosing flooring without considering how much time and effort they’re willing to invest in its care.

Express Flooring Solution: We provide a variety of low-maintenance flooring options that are perfect for busy households. Additionally, our team offers maintenance tips to help you keep your floors looking great with minimal effort.
 

5. Not Setting a Realistic Budget

Another common mistake is underestimating the total cost of new flooring. It’s important to consider not just the cost of the materials but also the expenses related to installation, underlayment, and any additional treatments or finishes. Failing to set a realistic budget can lead to compromises on quality or unexpected costs down the road.

Express Flooring Solution: At Express Flooring, we help our customers plan a realistic budget by providing transparent pricing and a range of financing options. Our goal is to make it easy for you to get the flooring you want without breaking the bank.
 
 

6. Skipping Professional Installation

In an effort to save money, some homeowners opt for DIY flooring installation. While this might seem like a good idea at first, it can lead to several issues, such as improper fitting, voided warranties, and increased long-term costs due to repairs. Professional installation ensures that your flooring is installed correctly, preserving its appearance and extending its lifespan.

Express Flooring Solution: Our professional installation services at Express Flooring are designed to provide you with peace of mind. Our experienced installers ensure that your flooring is fitted perfectly, helping you avoid costly mistakes and enjoy a flawless finish.
 

People Also Ask

1. What type of flooring is best for high-traffic areas?

Answer: For high-traffic areas, durability is key. Options like hardwood, tile, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are excellent choices because they are resistant to wear and tear, easy to clean, and can withstand heavy use. LVP, in particular, is popular for its combination of durability and water resistance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.
 

2. How do I choose the right flooring for rooms with moisture, like bathrooms or kitchens?

Answer: In rooms prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, it’s important to choose flooring that is water-resistant or waterproof. Options like ceramic or porcelain tile, vinyl flooring, and waterproof laminate are ideal. These materials can handle spills and humidity without warping, swelling, or growing mold, ensuring a long-lasting and safe floor.
 

3. What is the most cost-effective flooring option?

Answer: Laminate flooring and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are often considered the most cost-effective options due to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation. They mimic the look of more expensive materials like hardwood or stone, allowing you to achieve a high-end appearance at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, both options require minimal maintenance, which can save money over time.
 

4. How do I ensure my new flooring lasts as long as possible?

Answer: To ensure your new flooring lasts, it's important to choose the right material for your needs, maintain it properly, and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Regular cleaning, avoiding excessive moisture (unless the flooring is designed to be waterproof), and using protective pads under furniture can help extend the life of your floors. Additionally, professional installation is crucial to ensure the flooring is laid correctly, preventing issues that could shorten its lifespan.
 
 

Conclusion

Buying new floors for your home is an exciting process, but it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can lead to long-term regrets. By considering your lifestyle, paying attention to the subfloor, choosing the right materials for each room, understanding maintenance requirements, setting a realistic budget, and opting for professional installation, you can ensure that your new floors are both beautiful and functional.

Don’t make the same mistakes others have made—consult with Express Flooring today to find the perfect flooring solution for your home. Our experts are here to guide you every step of the way, from selection to installation.

Investing time and effort in the flooring decision-making process upfront can save you from costly errors and ensure that you’re thrilled with your floors for years to come.

Sources:
1. National Wood Flooring Association on Subfloor Preparation
2. HomeAdvisor on Flooring Installation Costs
3. Better Homes & Gardens on Flooring Maintenance