Over the last couple of years we have noticed an increase in home renovations as we have been busier than ever. One of the effects of people spending more time at home, has meant that many are investing both time and money into their property. Not, necessarily for increasing the value on their home but to make it somewhere where they can work, rest and play. Modern day homes have to be multifunctional.
So if you are planning a renovation or even moving home then this post is for you. Here are our top tips flooring tips when you are looking to update.
1. Plan
We feel that Michelle Ogundehin (interior design guru and presenter of Interior Design Masters), sums up how we feel about floors and when they should be considered in your new design " Lets talk about layering. In brief! In my opinion the best rooms always start with the floor. It is the foundation of a scheme that literally and visually underpins anything that sits upon it."
We know that choosing a floor can seem overwhelming, there is such an abundance of choice. Things to consider are not only the look but the feel and use of the floor. For example, you may need something more slip resistant in a bathroom or you might want the softness of carpet under your feet.
Whichever way you plan your renovation, mood boards can really help to focus your ideas. This is a great place to start thinking about the flooring that will suit the aesthetic in your newly designed space. In addition, you can always get advice from your friendly local retailer on the practicalities of your flooring ideas and many will be happy to provide you with samples.
2. Budget, Budget, Budget
Once you have your design, now is the time to get a realistic idea of how much your renovation will cost. When it comes to your flooring, it is best to get some estimates now. Invite flooring companies to look at your plans or if the room is available to visit that’s even better. Please note if a floor layer has just plans, a site visit is always needed at some point to provide an updated accurate costing.
In many cases, it is true what they say "you get what you pay for". So when you budget for your renovation it is a good idea to budget as much as you can for your floor. Flooring is a big ticket item, but on the flip side they have to work really hard for you. A good flooring company will work with you to help you get the best floor for your budget.
3. Leave it to the professionals
If you are looking for a professional finish, sometimes it's best to leave certain jobs to the professionals. Don’t get us wrong, over the years we have seen some great DIY efforts, but we have seen by far many more worse ones. Much of this comes down to knowledge and making sure you have all the correct tools.
When using a professional installer you aren't just getting their time, you are accessing their knowledge, experience, efficiency and their equipment. And trust us when we say a poorly fitted floor will ruin the whole look of your design, not to mention the floor probably will not last as long as it should.
4. Give Yourself Time
Whether you purchase your floor from a shop and use one of their installers or you buy your flooring from a retailer and use an independent floor layer, order your flooring and book your installation as soon as possible.
Depending on your choice of floor some may have lead times that are longer than you expect. Why book your installation well in advance? Good installers tend to be booked up for weeks at a time. Booking in early and possibly having to move the date will be far less stressful for you than leaving it to the last minute and then you can't get the materials or the installation booked in. Book the installation and work with your chosen flooring company or installer and keep them updated if there needs to be any amendments to fitting dates as soon as you can.
So, there are our top 4 tips to help you choose the floor and getting it installed.