Home decoration is a constant process. You need to constantly review, redesign, and reimagine your living space to ensure that it looks the best it possibly can. This can be done with simple measures, such as adding a new ornament or wall decoration, or buying some new cushions to liven up the sofa.
However, sometimes you need to undergo a more intensive renovation process. Some parts of your home, while they can last for some time, will need replacing eventually. The floor is no exception. Every homeowner will need to consider replacing the flooring at some time or another. However, before you start budgeting to bring in builders and professionals, it’s worth investigating whether it can be done yourself. Be it engineered wood or parquet wood floors, installing your own flooring might be easier than you think. Let’s take a look at what’s involved.
Do You Have The Right Equipment?
When it comes to any kind of home improvement or renovation, you must be certain that you have the right tools and equipment to complete the job. This is absolutely crucial: using the wrong tools can damage the materials you are working with, leading to poor results visually and practically. What’s more, using the wrong equipment can even lead to you injuring yourself.
While some types of flooring will require more specific equipment, there are a number of tools that you’ll need for any type of installation. These include:
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Saw
- Stanley knife
- Spirit level
For more specialist types of flooring, like parquet floors, you may need to apply a finish once the flooring has been installed.
Do You Have The Time?
Replacing your flooring can be a big undertaking. Even just one room can take time, and if it’s your whole house, then you should prepare to dedicate a lot of time to the job.
Assess how much of your house you are going to be reflooring and begin to draw up a preliminary schedule. This can give you an idea of how long the job is likely to take and when the potential finish date could be. Don’t just think about the physical act of laying the flooring. You’ll also need to consider preparation time as well.
Things To Remember
Before you lay any kind of flooring, parquet floors included, you’ll need to make sure the surface you are laying it on is properly prepped. It must be completely dry and free from debris to prevent any imperfections from developing in the flooring. Check the surface is even using a spirit level, sanding down any bumps and filling in any dips.
Whatever material you are using will need to be acclimatised to the room before installation. This is particularly important for wood, as changes in temperature and humidity can cause it to change shape.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to replace your own flooring with anything from engineered wood to parquet floors, don’t assume it’s an impossible task. Follow the tips we’ve outlined above and ensure you get the very best results.
