When it comes to installing new floors, making the right choice can be overwhelming. Whether you’re opting for LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile), engineered hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet, choosing the wrong flooring for your space or making installation errors can lead to costly mistakes. In this article, we will explore five common flooring mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them, ensuring that your investment lasts for years to come.
1. Choosing the Wrong Flooring for the Room’s Needs
One of the most common flooring mistakes is selecting a material that isn’t suitable for the specific room in your home. Each flooring type has its strengths, so it’s important to consider the room’s function.
- Mistake: Installing carpet in high-traffic or wet areas like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Solution: Carpet is soft and warm, making it perfect for bedrooms and living rooms but not ideal for areas exposed to moisture or heavy foot traffic. Instead, choose LVT or vinyl for moisture-prone areas, as both options are water-resistant and durable. For high-traffic areas, laminate and engineered hardwood are excellent choices due to their durability and scratch resistance.
2. Overlooking Proper Subfloor Preparation
A poorly prepared subfloor can ruin the entire flooring installation, leading to uneven surfaces, creaks, and early wear and tear. Skipping subfloor preparation is a common flooring mistake that can result in costly repairs down the line.
- Mistake: Installing new flooring without checking or preparing the subfloor properly.
- Solution: Before installing any flooring, make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, level, and free of debris. For LVT and vinyl, ensure the subfloor is smooth and even, as imperfections can cause the surface to warp. For engineered hardwood or laminate, subfloor moisture levels must be checked to prevent expansion or contraction of the material.
3. Neglecting to Consider Style and Design
Another frequent flooring mistake is failing to consider how the new floors will complement the existing style of the home or the intended aesthetic. Flooring can be a bold design statement, and not taking the time to choose a style that fits with the overall décor can lead to a mismatch in visual appeal.
- Mistake: Choosing flooring without considering how it complements your home’s design or furniture.
- Solution: Whether you’re opting for the rustic look of engineered hardwood or the sleek design of LVT, always think about the room’s style. For traditional or classic interiors, engineered hardwood can add elegance and warmth. If you prefer a modern, contemporary style, LVT and laminate offer a wide range of options to mimic natural materials like stone or wood.

4. Improper Installation of Flooring
Installation mistakes are common, especially for DIYers. Incorrect installation can lead to gaps, uneven surfaces, or damaged floors that won’t last long. Many people underestimate the importance of following manufacturer guidelines, which can result in long-term issues.
- Mistake: Incorrectly installing vinyl, laminate, or engineered hardwood flooring, leading to gaps or buckling.
- Solution: When installing LVT or vinyl, ensure that the pieces are aligned properly and follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines. Both laminate and engineered hardwood often have a click-lock installation system that is relatively simple but still requires careful attention to detail. For carpet, hire a professional to ensure proper stretching and installation to avoid wrinkles.
5. Ignoring Long-Term Maintenance Needs
Each type of flooring requires different levels of maintenance to keep it looking its best. Ignoring maintenance needs or choosing a floor type that is too difficult to care for can lead to deterioration over time.
- Mistake: Failing to maintain floors properly or choosing a floor that doesn’t suit your lifestyle.
- Solution: Understand the maintenance requirements of your flooring. Carpet needs regular vacuuming and periodic cleaning to prevent stains and wear. Laminate and LVT are relatively low maintenance but should be cleaned with the appropriate products to prevent scratching. Engineered hardwood needs gentle care, such as sweeping and using wood-safe cleaners, while also requiring refinishing every few years.
Conclusion
Avoiding common flooring mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration. When choosing the right floor, always consider the room’s function and moisture levels, and ensure that you select the appropriate material for that space. Proper preparation of the subfloor, installation, and maintenance are essential to ensure your floors last. By avoiding these five flooring mistakes, whether you choose LVT, engineered hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or carpet, you’ll be able to enjoy your new floors for years to come.
Be sure to take your time, ask for advice, and consider professional help when necessary to get the most out of your flooring investment. Reach out to The Elite Flooring Company for guidance on your flooring needs.