Tired of that purple shag carpet in your master bedroom? Or that ripped, patterned vinyl in your kitchen?
It’s time to update your flooring!
Installing best floor tiles for home is something homeowners can do to bring new, fresh life to their home without breaking the bank!
Here are some tips for how to install home flooring on your own.
Pick Your Floor, Not Your Nose
Before we begin, let’s get one thing out of the way: DIY flooring is not a walk in the park! It takes time, prep work, and actual work to get it done right.
But the results can transform a room for a relatively small cost. So we consider it a worthwhile project if you’re ready to put in the work.
Before you choose a floor, take into account your budget and the amount of traffic in the room. You may also want to consider things like soundproofing, pet traffic, and ease of cleaning.
Also, it’s important to know about your subflooring before you start. Certain flooring options don’t go well with different subfloors. Before you pick your floor, read the instructions on the package to see if it will work for your specific needs.
The Tool Bag
The right tools make a big difference in how smooth the installation process goes. Certain floors, like tile and hardwood, need more specialized tools.
Do your research before you shop for tools. Here’s a list of some of the most common tools used in flooring installation.
Knee Pads
No matter what type of flooring you choose, you’ll need to get down and dirty. And before you know it, your knees will start barking at you. Knee pads are a must.
Tape Measure
Measure twice, cut once. Every flooring type will require you to make cuts. And you’ll need a measuring device to do so.
Level or Straight Edge
Again, you’ll need to make cuts. And you want your cuts as straight as possible. Use a utility knife to mark the cut on the flooring by drawing it across using the straight edge as a guide.
Utility Knife
You won’t need a saw to cut vinyl flooring. In most cases, a knife will do the trick. A good knife can also help you cut through packaging and remove the old flooring.
Broom & Vacuum
Before you install any type of flooring, you’ll need to clean the surface. Start by sweeping, then vacuum in the corners and edges. After you start laying the floor, continue to sweep away the dust as you move across the room.
Saw
The type of saw you use depends on the type of flooring. Laying tile, for example, requires a tile saw. But for most laminate and wood floors, you can use a miter saw or a table saw.
If you don’t have a saw, consider renting one for the day. And some flooring won’t require it. Vinyl, for example, can often be cut using just a utility knife.
The Art of Installation
The most important rule of installation is to follow the directions on the package. It’s also a great idea to watch a YouTube video of someone else applying the flooring before you start. Most flooring manufacturers offer video guides.
Map out how you’ll lay the flooring based on the directions that came with it. Some floors should start in the middle of the room, some should start at the edge. Your directions will tell you how to do this.
Take your time and before you know it, you’ll be in a good rhythm. Most floors won’t look right if you don’t start them off right. So take extra time in the beginning.
Update Your Home Flooring Today!
How long your home flooring project takes depends on a lot of factors. Floor size, your skill level, the skills of your helpers, and the flooring itself.
But a good estimate is that you can get a room done in a few hours if you do the right prep work. And new flooring can bring new life to a bland space!
Looking for more home improvement tips? Check out this guide to prepare your home for the summer!
