Should I Install My Floors Myself or Hire a Professional?

There’s a tremendous sense of pride for a homeowner when it comes to successfully completing home improvement projects. In addition to the huge sense of accomplishment, chances are you padded your home improvement budget by saving a valuable amount of money on labor. This rings especially true if you are looking at a new flooring project and feel confident in handling it yourself instead of scheduling professional installation. Flooring is a large project and can be expensive, so it becomes imperative to weigh the pros and cons of a DIY project. Should I install my own floors or should a professional? As you consider your answer, here’s a few aspects to factor in.

You want to ensure the job is done correctly. Mistakes during installation can affect the appearance, functionality, and longevity of your flooring. Unless you have significant DIY experience, consider hiring a professional installer to guarantee satisfaction with your new floor. Many professionals provide installation warranties that protect your flooring for years, and some retailers even offer lifetime installation warranties. Additionally, be sure to review any details about how a DIY installation might impact your product warranty. 

The location where you install your new floor also plays a significant role. For example, if you're considering laminate flooring for your laundry room, it could be a good project to test your skills. Many flooring options designed for DIY projects can be installed as floating floors over existing surfaces. Additionally, since the laundry room isn't a high-traffic area for guests, any mistakes are less likely to be noticeable. However, if you're planning to install hardwood floors in your home's entrance or hallways, these high-visibility areas require a flawless installation with no room for error.

Technological advancements have made it easier to install floors than ever before. 

Most floating floors can be installed over surfaces like hardwood, ceramic tile, laminate, and vinyl—though not over carpet. If you're considering a hardwood floor, engineered wood is an excellent option for a DIY project, as many varieties can be installed as floating floors, simplifying the process significantly. However, note that some engineered hardwoods with tongue-and-groove joints require gluing to secure them in place. The primary advantage of this approach is the potential savings on labor costs for hardwood floor installation.

Installing solid hardwood flooring requires a higher level of skill and expertise. First, you need to accurately assess whether the subfloor is sturdy enough or if structural enhancements are needed. Assuming your wood subfloor is ready, you'll also need to use power tools like a jigsaw, circular saw, or nailer with confidence. Additionally, it's crucial to let the wood acclimate to the room's temperature and humidity before installation. Although this step is often overlooked by first-time installers, it is essential for stabilizing the wood and ensuring a proper installation. If any of these steps seem unfamiliar, it might be wise to hire a professional and use the opportunity to learn about the process for future DIY projects.

A DIY flooring project will probably take longer than hiring installers. Keep in mind that the installation process will make the affected rooms unusable. While a comprehensive quote from a store typically covers all related tasks, you will be responsible for removing and storing furniture, taking down wall items, disposing of old flooring, preparing the subfloor, and allowing the new flooring to acclimate. Only after completing these steps can you start the actual installation. For a busy household, this period of having rooms out of commission might be too lengthy. For any type of flooring project, only consider a DIY approach if you have the time to proceed carefully and ensure every step is done correctly. Rushing through the process can increase stress and lead to costly mistakes.

The keys to your successful DIY installation will be precision and know-how. With adequate planning and research, you can successfully learn to install floors in your home and achieve the results you desire. While you save on financial costs, it's important to invest time and attention to detail. You can always reach out to your local Lei Floor and Window Covering's store to connect with one of our knowledgeable flooring experts.

1. Extended Lifespan

Professional flooring installation by expert flooring installers ensures that your flooring materials are laid correctly, which significantly extends their lifespan. Improper installation can lead to premature wear and tear, necessitating replacements much sooner than anticipated.

2. Warranty Protection

Many flooring manufacturers offer warranties that are contingent on proper installation. DIY installations or hiring inexperienced installers can void these warranties, leaving you unprotected if issues arise. Trusting quality flooring services ensures your warranty remains intact, providing peace of mind and financial protection.

3. Avoid Costly Mistakes

Mistakes during the installation process can be expensive to fix. Issues such as uneven floors, gaps, or buckling can compromise the integrity of your flooring and require professional intervention to correct. Expert flooring installers have the skills and tools necessary to avoid these pitfalls, saving you time and money in the long run.

4. Optimal Performance

Proper installation techniques are critical for the optimal performance of your flooring. For example, hardwood floors require precise spacing to accommodate natural expansion and contraction. Carpets need to be stretched and secured properly to prevent wrinkles and maintain a smooth surface. Expert flooring installers ensure that each type of flooring is installed according to best practices for peak performance.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

The final appearance of your flooring is heavily influenced by the quality of the installation. Professionally installed floors look seamless, with precise cuts and perfect alignment, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. Quality flooring services prioritize meticulous attention to detail, ensuring your floors look flawless.hen it comes to installing new flooring in your home, the importance of proper flooring installation cannot be overstated. 

Choosing the right team for your flooring installation is crucial. Our expert flooring installers bring years of experience and a commitment to excellence to every project. We understand that choosing new flooring can be a daunting task. That's why we're here to help you every step of the way. We offer free estimates, so you can get a clear understanding of your options and costs. We also have a wide selection of flooring samples available for you to see and touch.