When it comes to DIY flooring projects, most mistakes are often made before the first plank or tile is laid.
Inaccurate measurements, poor preparation, or choosing the wrong flooring for the space can quickly lead to extra expense, and disappointing results.
So how can you get the job done yourself without it becoming a fiasco?
The range of products available has expanded considerably in the past two decades is probably research.
Sacha Bearden, CEO of Baptiste Limited, said: “These days you can choose between vinyl flooring, laminated wood, porcelain or ceramic tile and carpeting and there are pros and cons to each.
“Laminate or vinyl flooring both make a good DIY weekend projects because they are fairly easy to install.
“But tile is a multistep process with a much more permanent result, so you need to be prepared to do your homework and take your time in order to achieve a good result.”
Measure twice, buy once
Once you have settled on your type of flooring, the next step is to take accurate measurements. Whatever you do, resist the urge to eyeball it. A difference of only a few inches can impact how much supplies you need for each step of the project.
“Many people underestimate how much material they actually need,” Ms Bearden said.
“Particularly if you are installing tile, you need to allow for off-cuts and pattern repetition, and the amount of wastage can vary significantly depending on the installation design or pattern you choose.
“It’s also a good idea to buy a couple of extra boxes and store them for future repairs, as finding an exact match later can be surprisingly difficult.”
Laying the groundwork for success
“The amount of prep work, and the additional materials required, will depend entirely on what your existing floor is made of,” Ms Bearden said.
“Understanding that upfront can help avoid surprises, delays, and unexpected costs once the project is underway.
“In some cases, you are going to have to expend a fair amount of time and energy demoing the existing floor, and even once you have removed it, there may well be residual glue or grout to deal with as well as cracks to fill.”
It’s essential that the floor is perfectly level, particularly when installing large-format porcelain tiles which are currently popular.
That often means applying a layer of self-levelling mastic before the adhesive or cement which secures the tiles to the floor.
Ms Bearden said: “Another thing that a lot of people fail to consider is how they will transition through a doorway from one room to the next, particularly if you are connecting two different types of flooring.
“Manufacturers typically make tiles in families that feature a range of shapes and sizes in coordinating colours, so you can create a more seamless and intentional transition between spaces, rather than an abrupt visual break.”
Complementary tiles, border pieces, or transition strips can help improve the visual flow from room to room, giving the finished project a far more polished, professional look.
The difference between a successful flooring project and a costly or frustrating one often comes down to planning and asking the right questions in advance. Get that right, and you’ll have the confidence and supplies to achieve a result to keep you happy for years to come.
