When embarking on a massive home renovation, you will constantly question the project timeline. From demolition to painting the walls, the correct order of the steps can often seem like a mystery.
A single question, in particular, looms over your head: when are you supposed to replace the flooring? Read on to discover when to replace flooring according to your project’s needs.
Install Flooring First When …
The Floors Are Challenging To Install
When tackling home renovations, particularly flooring, it’s essential to prioritize projects by complexity. Floors that pose installation challenges, such as hardwood or intricate tile patterns, should be at the forefront of your renovation schedule. Taking care of the most demanding tasks first allocates enough time to complete these projects without rushing.
Complicated installations might require precise measurements, custom materials cutting, and professional handling. Addressing these flooring needs first sets a solid foundation for the rest of the renovation.
Flooring Takes a Long Time To Cure
There are several flooring types where the adhesives, finishes, or underlayment necessitate a sizeable curing duration. Rushing this process will diminish the floor’s appearance and functionality.
Oil-based hardwood floor finishes can take up to a week to cure fully. Traditional terrazzo flooring, known for its custom design work, requires considerable time to cure and additional time for polishing.
Concrete floors require a prolonged period to fully cure. A standard concrete slab may take around 28 days to achieve 90 percent of its compressive strength—though you can walk on it with caution after about 48 hours. Additionally, extensive or thicker pours might require additional time.
Renovating the Kitchen
The biggest concern that arises when renovating the kitchen is the uniformity of the cabinets and appliances. If you install flooring after installing these features, the kitchen may look distorted.
Working on the flooring before cabinetry installation allows for a seamless look under appliances and prevents future remodeling complications. Plus, the appliances will have a sturdy, even foundation for installation.
Install Flooring After …
Taking Care of Framing and Drywall
The primary reason to install flooring after big renovations is to prevent any sort of damage. When sequencing renovation tasks, it’s crucial to address the framing and drywall before installing new flooring.
Framing requires heavy equipment and ample effort to construct the structural elements of the home. Drywall installation is a messy process that releases debris throughout.
Wait until after the framing and drywall projects to add the floors. In this instance, waiting will save you the stress of worrying about the floor’s condition during these renovations.
Conducting Any Ceiling Work
Ceiling work coincides with the drywall and framing tasks. Whether it’s the removal of popcorn ceilings or the installation of recessed lighting, these tasks generate dust and debris that can compromise the appearance and integrity of new flooring.
Tools may fall, ladders could scratch the surface, or new light fixtures could break and dent your new floors. Simply avoid these unforeseen circumstances by waiting to install the flooring.
Home renovations are complex projects. No matter if you hire a professional or tackle the easiest floors to install yourself, these guidelines for determining when to replace the flooringduring home renovation can help.
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