When to Replace Flooring: What to Watch For
Deciding when to replace flooring in any room of your home can be challenging. Whether it’s part of a larger renovation, a reaction to damage, or simply a wish to refresh your space, timing is crucial. But you don’t have to figure this out on your own!
Read on for our tips to help you determine when it’s time to replace your flooring and how to handle tricky timing decisions—such as whether to replace cabinets or flooring first during a kitchen remodel. From disaster recovery situations to move-in or move-out scenarios, here’s what you need to know.
Four Reasons Homeowners Replace Their Floors
While plenty of unique situations exist, most floor replacement projects are born out of four scenarios.
1. It’s Time
Over the years, flooring naturally wears down, impacting both its appearance and performance. Common signs include stains, scratches, and dents. These issues are not just cosmetic; they can lead to structural problems if ignored. For instance, kitchen floors often endure heavy use, making them prime candidates for replacement.
Want to determine if your flooring is overdue for an upgrade? Download our New Flooring Project Checklist to learn how to identify key warning signs and plan your replacement project with confidence. As locally owned and operated businesses, Floor Coverings International takes pride in helping homeowners in your community make informed decisions that enhance the beauty and value of their homes.
2. Renovation
New flooring is a key consideration of any renovation project. Successful renovations are built from the ground up and emphasize floor material, texture, color, and finish to complete the reimagined space.
Today’s flooring materials, like luxury vinyl plank (LVP), laminate, and engineered hardwood, are designed for durability and low maintenance. These options not only withstand the rigors of everyday life but also retain their beauty over time. Choosing high-quality flooring is an investment that reduces future repair costs, enhances your home’s value, and provides lasting peace of mind.
3. Disaster Recovery
Floods, leaks, fires, and other disasters prompt many flooring projects, as there’s typically no other choice. For example, flooded flooring should all be replaced due to mold and mildew health risks. Water damage can also cause structural issues with flooring. Even minor water damage can cause problems, and we recommend replacing flooring after mold is discovered.
4. Move In/Move Out
Flooring upgrades are common for homeowners who want to personalize their new space. Conversely, sellers often replace old or damaged floors to improve their home’s market appeal. Whether you’re moving in or preparing to sell, new flooring can significantly enhance a home’s value and aesthetics.
How to Time Your Flooring Replacement Right
Coordination and timing are crucial for a smooth flooring replacement process. Whether you’re updating your entire home or focusing on one room, planning ensures minimal disruption and maximum impact. Here’s how to approach common timing questions:
Do I renovate the walls or floors first?
In most cases, you should redo the floors first. Installing flooring can damage wall surfaces, especially when removing and replacing baseboards. Replacing the floors first also ensures they’re ready before painting or papering the walls, providing a clean, seamless transition at the floorboards.
Do I install flooring before cabinets or islands?
This decision depends on your project goals and materials:
- Flooring First: Offers a seamless look with no gaps or edges. It’s also future-proof, allowing layout changes without needing additional flooring. However, it may waste material under cabinets and risk damage during cabinet installation. Additionally, some flooring should never be installed under cabinets!
- Cabinets First: Saves on material costs and protects your flooring during installation. This is the recommended method based on your selected materials (for example, laminate floors should not be installed under cabinets). On the downside, it requires precise cutting to fit flooring around cabinetry and may lock in your layout.
Want a deeper dive into the pros and cons? Check out our full guide on Cabinets or Flooring First: The Kitchen Renovation Timeline to make the best choice for your space!
How do I ensure floor protection during renovation?
Temporary floor coverings are your best option. Thick cardboard, construction paper, and adhesive films offer light-duty protection. If you need more protection, consider Ram Board or another thick covering available at your local building supply store.
What if I need to replace flooring after a disaster?
Flooded or water-damaged floors should be replaced immediately to prevent health risks from mold and mildew. Moisture trapped in flooring materials can lead to warping, weakening the structural integrity of your subfloor. When dealing with water damage, consult a professional to assess the flooring and the underlying layers, as unseen issues can lead to long-term complications! For fire-damaged floors, look for signs of heat warping or smoke stains that indicate the need for full replacement.
How do I know if aging floors need replacing?
Aging floors often exhibit multiple signs of decline. Deep scratches that expose the subfloor, persistent creaking in specific areas (which may stem from the subfloor or joists rather than the flooring itself), and discoloration from sunlight or wear are all indicators. For carpeted floors, matting that doesn’t lift with cleaning or visible patches of wear are tell-tale signs it’s time for an upgrade. Pay attention to how your flooring feels underfoot; uneven or spongy surfaces could signal underlying structural damage.
Is flooring replacement important for move-in or move-out projects?
Yes! For new homeowners, installing fresh flooring before move-in makes the space feel uniquely yours and eliminates traces of previous occupants. For sellers, investing in new flooring can significantly improve first impressions. Staging your home with fresh, neutral flooring helps prospective buyers envision the space as their own, often leading to faster sales and better offers.
Plan Your Flooring Project with Confidence
At Floor Coverings International, we understand that choosing new flooring is a significant decision that impacts your home’s comfort, style, and value. That’s why we’ve created the New Flooring Project Checklist—your ultimate guide to making confident, informed choices. Whether you’re starting from scratch or replacing an aging floor, this guide walks you through every step of the process.
After reading our guide, schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our Design Associates. We’ll bring the showroom to you, offer tailored recommendations, and handle the entire process—from selection to installation—with care and expertise.
Contact your local flooring team today and let’s bring your vision to life. We’ve got your floor, covered!
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