Flooring & Tiling

Carefully examine the existing flooring material for any signs of wear, damage, or water intrusion. Check the subfloor's condition by looking for loose boards, squeaks, or any soft spots that indicate rot or structural weakness. Measure the floor to ensure it is level within the manufacturer's tolerance for the new flooring. Identify any transitions to other flooring types and plan how they will be handled.

Starting in a corner, use a pry bar and utility knife to lift and remove the existing flooring. For materials like vinyl or linoleum, scoring the surface can make removal easier. If removing carpet, cut it into manageable strips. Carefully pry off baseboards and trim, trying not to damage the walls. If trim is to be reused, mark its location and orientation.

Sweep and vacuum the subfloor thoroughly to remove all dust, debris, and loose particles. Fill any low spots with a floor leveling compound, following the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application. Sand down any high spots or uneven areas using a floor sander or hand sanding. Ensure all nails or screws are flush with the subfloor surface or removed. For wood subfloors, check for any loose or squeaky boards and secure them with screws.

Transport the new flooring materials into the room where they will be installed. Unpack the boxes or bundles, but do not remove the flooring from its packaging unless manufacturer instructions specify otherwise. Allow the flooring to sit undisturbed for the period recommended by the manufacturer, typically 48-72 hours, to acclimate to the ambient conditions of the room. This prevents expansion or contraction issues after installation.

Determine the starting wall. For most flooring, it's recommended to start along the longest, straightest wall. Lay out the first few rows of flooring perpendicular to the direction of the main light source in the room (e.g., a window) to minimize the visibility of seams. Dry-lay a few planks or tiles to visualize the pattern and ensure a pleasing arrangement, especially around doorways or irregular shapes.

Place the first plank or tile against the starting wall. Use spacers between the flooring and the wall to maintain a consistent expansion gap, as recommended by the manufacturer (typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch). If using a click-lock system, connect the second piece to the first, ensuring a tight seam. For glued-down flooring, apply adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions before placing the planks.

Continue installing rows, staggering the end joints of the planks or tiles to create a random pattern. The recommended stagger is usually at least 6 inches. Use a tapping block and mallet (for click-lock or tongue-and-groove systems) to ensure tight connections between planks. For glued-down systems, continue applying adhesive and placing flooring as per the manufacturer's instructions. Cut the last plank in each row to fit, remembering to account for the expansion gap.

Measure and mark the flooring material for cuts around doorways, heat vents, plumbing, or cabinets. Use a jigsaw or oscillating multi-tool for intricate cuts. For pipes, cut a hole slightly larger than the pipe diameter to accommodate expansion. Use a template if needed for complex shapes. Ensure cuts are precise to minimize gaps.

Measure the remaining gap for the final row, remembering to subtract the expansion gap from the measurement. Cut the flooring planks or tiles to fit this width. Often, the locking mechanism on the edge needs to be removed or trimmed to allow the planks to be slid into place. Use a pull bar to gently draw the final row tight against the previous row and the wall.

Install transition strips (e.g., reducers, t-molding) where the new flooring meets different flooring types or at exterior doorways. Secure them according to manufacturer instructions, often involving screws or adhesive. Reinstall baseboards or apply new trim around the perimeter of the room. Ensure the trim covers the expansion gap. Nail or adhesive the trim in place, being careful not to puncture the new flooring.

Sweep and vacuum the newly installed floor thoroughly to remove any dust, sawdust, or adhesive residue. Wipe down the surface with a cleaner recommended by the flooring manufacturer. Inspect the entire floor for any loose planks, scratches, or imperfections. Ensure all transition strips and trim are securely in place. Remove any protective films or coverings.