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Don't Make These 7 Common Mistakes When Shopping For Your New Floors!
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Proper flooring installation is crucial for longevity and appearance; cutting corners can lead to costly repairs and frustration
Be wary of unrealistically low quotes and too-good-to-be-true deals, as they often hide hidden costs or subpar workmanship
Hire professional, certified installers who can properly prepare the subfloor, handle materials correctly, and provide warranty protection
When it comes to home improvement, few projects have as much impact on your daily life as new flooring. The right flooring can transform a space, increase your home’s value, and provide years of comfort and enjoyment. However, when flooring installations go wrong, the consequences can be disastrous. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of proper flooring installation, share a cautionary tale, and provide tips on how to avoid becoming the star of your own flooring horror story.
1. Uneven surfaces and gaps: Improper subfloor preparation or careless installation can lead to noticeable dips, bumps, or gaps between planks or tiles.
2. Bubbling and peeling: This often occurs in vinyl or laminate flooring when adhesive is improperly applied or moisture becomes trapped underneath.
3. Squeaky or hollow-sounding floors: Usually a result of improper nailing or insufficient subfloor preparation in hardwood installations.
4. Moisture damage and warping: Poor moisture barriers or improper acclimation can lead to cupping, crowning, or buckling in wood floors.
Meet Sarah, a homeowner who decided to upgrade her living room with beautiful oak hardwood flooring. Excited about her home improvement project, she hired a contractor who offered an irresistibly low quote. Little did she know, this decision would lead to months of frustration and costly repairs. Initially, Sarah noticed some minor issues – a few boards seemed slightly uneven, and there was an occasional squeak. The contractor assured her these were normal “settling” issues that would resolve themselves. However, as weeks passed, the problems escalated.
The once-flat floor began to develop noticeable humps and dips. Gaps appeared between planks, wide enough to catch high heels and collect dust. The squeaking intensified, turning Sarah’s quiet morning walks to the kitchen into a symphony of creaks and groans.
As the seasons changed, Sarah’s horror story took an even darker turn. The summer humidity caused several boards to cup dramatically, creating a wavy effect across the room. In drier winter months, the wood shrank, increasing the gaps between planks.
An inspection revealed the root causes of these issues:
1. Inadequate acclimation: The hardwood wasn’t allowed to adjust to the home’s environment before installation, leading to expansion and contraction issues.
2. Poor subfloor preparation: The existing subfloor wasn’t properly leveled or cleaned, causing unevenness and squeaks.
3. Neglected moisture barrier: A proper moisture barrier wasn’t installed, leaving the wood vulnerable to humidity fluctuations.
The emotional and financial toll on Sarah was significant. What should have been a beautiful upgrade became a daily reminder of a costly mistake. To fix the issues, Sarah had to hire a reputable flooring company to completely tear out and reinstall the hardwood, doubling her initial investment.
1. Proper subfloor preparation: They know how to assess and prepare various subfloor types, ensuring a stable foundation for your new flooring.
2. Material knowledge: Professionals understand the unique properties of different flooring materials and how to handle them correctly.
3. Specialized tools and techniques: From moisture meters to pneumatic nailers, professionals have the right tools for every aspect of the job.
4. Problem-solving skills: Experienced installers can navigate unexpected issues that may arise during installation.
5. Warranty protection: Many manufacturers’ warranties are only valid if the flooring is professionally installed.
1. Check credentials and certifications: Look for installers certified by reputable organizations like the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).
2. Read reviews and ask for references: Don’t just rely on testimonials on the company’s website. Check independent review sites and ask to speak with past clients.
3. Understand the installation process: A good installer should be able to explain each step of the process and why it’s important.
Proper flooring installation is crucial for the longevity, appearance, and functionality of your new floors. While it may be tempting to cut corners to save money, the potential long-term costs far outweigh any initial savings. By choosing a reputable, professional installer, you can ensure your flooring project has a happy ending.
At Shop Save & Floor, we pride ourselves on our expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Our team of certified installers has years of experience with all types of flooring materials. We stand behind our work with robust warranties and a track record of successful installations. Don’t let your dream floors become a nightmare – contact us today for a professional, worry-free flooring installation.
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Don't Make These 7 Common Mistakes When Shopping For Your New Floors!
Download your free copy of the “7 Most Common Mistakes When Shopping For New Floors”, to help you avoid these costly mistakes.
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