4 Planning Tips to Follow Before Replacing Your Floor
Flooring is the focal point of a room.
It impacts the aesthetics of a space, and the cleanliness. A beautiful floor is the perfect foundation upon which to create a lovely room.
Before you fall in love with a new kind of flooring, hire a contractor or figure out where your furniture will go while the floors are being installed, do your homework. Knowing what to expect can help cut down on anxiety as the project gets underway.
1. Find Out About Your Current Flooring
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, vinyl and asphalt floors may contain abestos. As that flooring breaks, tears, or is otherwise damaged, asbetos is released into the air. OSHA reports that inhalation of asbestos can cause serious diseases of the lungs and damage to other organs, much of which does not appear until years after exposure.
If your current vinyl or asphalt-based floor was put in place prior to 1978, it is quite likely you have asbetos, according to The Inspectors Journal. That flooring is not considered dangerous if it has not been damaged in any way. However, if your old flooring must be removed, make sure to hire a contractor with extensive experience working with asbetos-based products. He/She will make sure that it is done in a way that will protect your family, and his crew, and know the safest way to dispose of the old materials.
Endless Inspiration for the Floor of Your Dreams
GET DESIGN BOOK2. Consider Resale Value
Realtor.com recommends going with a hard-surface floor for the best resale value. Even if you never plan on selling your home, there are advantages to hardwood flooring and tile floors:
- They are easy to clean.
- Odors are wiped away rather than sink into fibers.
- Wood floors are permanent. Well-cared for solid floors can last the lifetime of a home.
- If you want a touch of something softer underfoot, you can choose a beautiful area rug that helps “anchor” the decor of a room.
3. Know What to Expect From the Installers and Subcontractors
Once you’ve found a contractor whose work you like, make sure you’re on the same page. He will ask you to sign a contract that outlines the cost of the project and how you are expected to pay. His contract may even cover such issues as conflict resolution in the event you are unhappy with his work.
Also consider creating your own contract for him to sign. Your contract should include issues that are important to you, like what time his crew will arrive each morning, whether they will perform a daily clear up, and how many days a week they will work until the job is completed.
You should also find out how your contractor plans to dispose of trash and if his crew will be moving your furniture out of each room. Don’t worry if he expects you to take care of these two issues. Companies like NextDayDumpsters.com can take care of your trash removal, and require no more effort than a phone call. And when it comes to moving your furniture, most local movers will frequently quote you an “in-house” price. You can also consider renting a storage “POD” which can house your furniture on your property while the renovation takes place.
Be sure to work with reputable contractors, installers, movers and other construction partners. They should be bonded, licensed and insured, so you know that you, your home and your belongings are in good hands.
4. Take Your Time
Well-chosen hardwood floors will be with you for a very long time. Take your time as you decide which flooring is perfect for your space. Yes, it may slow the process down, but it will leave you more satisfied in the long run. Get inspired today if you are looking for ideas!