Managing project expectations

Flooring Installation Expectations and Preparation Checklist

Introduction: Flooring installation can be disruptive, but having clear expectations can minimize stress. We’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to address common questions and concerns. While it’s impossible to anticipate every issue, this guide will cover most of the essentials. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact our team for clarification.

Budgeting for Your Project

• Deposit and Payment:
  A 50% deposit is required upon acceptance of the flooring proposal to secure the order of materials. After materials are ordered, you’ll receive an expected installation date. This date will be confirmed once materials are shipped.
  
  • Labor-only jobs: Require a 100% deposit to secure scheduling.
    
  • Additional Costs: Extra charges may arise if jobsite preparations aren’t completed before the installation crew arrives. If the crew cannot begin work due to unforeseen issues, a minimum trip charge will apply.
    
• Material Costs and Preparation:
  The estimate does not cover hidden conditions such as subfloor grinding, floating, or repairs, which may result in additional charges. You’ll be informed of any extra costs as they arise.
  

Preparing for Installation

• Furniture and Appliances:
  Plan ahead for moving large items such as refrigerators, stoves, pianos, aquariums, etc. These items are the owner’s responsibility to move. For health and safety reasons, we cannot move heavy items or those requiring specialized disconnection (gas, plumbing, etc.).
  Note: Dishwashers are not typically moved as flooring is rarely installed beneath them.
  
• Furniture Coverage:
  If necessary, we can arrange to cover furniture that won’t be moved before installation, for an additional charge. Please discuss this with your sales rep before the installation day.
  
• Leftover Materials:
  After installation, some leftover material is common. It is non-returnable, but we recommend saving it for future repairs. If you wish to keep extra material, please discuss it with your estimator prior to ordering.
  
• Flooring Compatibility:
  Changes in flooring type may impact existing base trims or door jambs, potentially requiring carpenter services to address height differences.
  Moldings or baseboards may need to be removed during installation. If removal is not included in your estimate, additional charges may apply. Keep in mind, moldings can be fragile, and we are not responsible for breakage.
  
• Bio-Hazard Removal:
  If your existing flooring has contamination (e.g., urine), removal and disposal may require additional costs or, in some cases, be outside of our services. Our sales rep will assess whether we can handle this.
  

When to Consult Other Professionals

• Specialized Services:
  If your project requires any electrical, gas, or water reconnections (e.g., for gas stoves, dishwashers, or toilets), you must hire a licensed professional to perform this work. We recommend scheduling these services ahead of time to align with your installation schedule.
  
• Structural Repairs:
  If there are any structural issues with your subfloor (e.g., squeaks, pops, or movement), repairs should be completed before we begin flooring installation.
  

Pre-Scheduling Considerations

• Health and Safety:
  If anyone in the home has health concerns that could be affected by the project (e.g., dust, fumes), please discuss this with our team. It may be necessary for affected individuals to stay out of the home during installation.
  
• Product Lead Times:
  Due to supply chain demands, product and installation material lead times may be longer than expected. Please check with our team for the latest updates on expected delivery and installation timelines.
  
• Access Information:
  Please provide any necessary access information, such as gate codes, alarm codes, or keys. Also, inform us about any specific parking conditions for installers.
  
• Staging Areas:
  Identify where materials can be staged and cut for installation, as this will help with the flow of the project.
  
• Special Installation Conditions:
  Discuss any special considerations (e.g., stereo wires, security systems, or floor heating systems) with your sales rep before installation.
  

Day of Installation

• Arrival Time:
  Installation crews typically arrive between 8:30 am – 10:30 am. However, factors outside our control may affect this timing, so flexibility is appreciated.
  
• Product Inspection:
  Before work begins, check that the flooring is correct in color and style. Some variation in shade may occur due to age or exposure to sunlight, especially with wood products.
  
• Access to Utilities:
  Ensure that installers have access to necessary utilities, such as heat, power, and ventilation.
  
• Pets and Family Members:
  For safety, please keep pets and young children away from the installation area, as nails and tools may be present. All individuals on the premises should wear shoes at all times to avoid injuries.
  
• Temperature and Humidity:
  The ideal temperature for installation is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a relative humidity between 35% and 55%. This is especially important for wood flooring.
  

Pre-Installation Home Preparation

• Clear the Area:
  Remove or cover any breakable items such as lamps, vases, and collectibles. We advise you to remove pictures and art from walls in the work area, as vibrations can cause them to fall. Empty China cabinets, bookcases, and furniture as necessary.
  
• Closets:
  While closets don’t need to be completely empty, all items should be removed from the floor. Low-hanging clothing should also be cleared away.
  
• Remove Existing Flooring:
  If you are removing old flooring, it must be completed at least one day prior to installation. If the existing flooring contains mold or other hazards, please consult with your sales rep to discuss removal and disposal options.
  
• Dust and Debris:
  Expect dust and small debris to be created during the removal and installation process. You may need to clean after the project is complete.
  

Post-Installation

• Furniture Re-assembly:
  We will do our best to return furniture to its original location, but some adjustments may be necessary. If more time is needed to finish the project, we may need to return the next day.
  
• Final Inspection:
  Once installation is complete, carefully inspect the work. If there are any issues or concerns, let us know as soon as possible, and we will address them promptly.
  

By following these steps and preparing in advance, you can help ensure a smooth and successful flooring installation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!