Right around now, y’all are probably looking for something new to do around the house. You’ve already cleaned out all the closets—and because you’re a smart cookie, you sold the contents on eBay. Now, with that extra cash, you want to give the house a makeover from the bottom up. Just don’t forget these questions to ask yourself before choosing new flooring.
How much can I spend?
This question is at the top for a reason. Y’all, it’s possible to stick to your budget if you keep it at the front of your mind at all times. Write that number on a Post-it and stick it to your forehead. Don’t forget to include a financial cushion for taxes, labor, and lunch to celebrate your new floor.
Do I want the same flooring throughout the house?
This is a key consideration if you have an open floor plan or an aesthetic vision for your home. Of course, it adds up quickly. You can start with one room at a time, but there’s no guarantee you can buy matching flooring later.
Are we selling the house soon?
If you have to think about appealing to buyers in the future, it’s worth paying a bit more for hardwood floors. They’re gorgeous, and they add value. But if you know the appeal only has to last a decade or so, you can go with something cheap and be more adventurous with the design. Just beware that leopard-print vinyl might not age well.
Do I have children?
Hey, I get it. Sometimes I mentally block them out, too. But if your nest is still very much full, you’ll have to keep in mind the extra traffic your floors will get from children. The spills. The stains. The dents. The regurgitations. In that case, white carpet is out.
Do I have pets?
This one should be easy to answer unless it’s a situation in which the salamander has escaped and you’re not sure if it made it out of the house. Pet paws and claws do a number on expensive flooring, and you don’t want to have a heart attack each and every day. Just make sure your flooring is waterproof. Do it for me.
Do I want to install it myself?
DIY queens, I salute you. But I won’t help you lay oak hardwood. Unless you’re extremely confident in your skills, you can save money by installing a floating floor that clicks together—you don’t need glue or nails. Look into luxury vinyl planking you can install yourself.
How much can I spend?
Go ahead—check your Post-it. Before choosing new flooring, this is a question to ask yourself frequently. Think of it as a game: How can you get the most bang for your buck? New floor technology is always evolving, and it can look amazing at a fraction of the price. Home makeovers don’t often come cheap, but this is one game you can win.
