{"id":9563,"date":"2019-06-25T22:40:24","date_gmt":"2019-06-25T20:40:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/?p=2710"},"modified":"2026-05-15T17:27:18","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T15:27:18","slug":"9-of-the-biggest-diy-flooring-mistakes-homeowners-make","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/9-of-the-biggest-diy-flooring-mistakes-homeowners-make\/","title":{"rendered":"9 of the Biggest DIY Flooring Mistakes Homeowners Make"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Installing new floors is a great way to update the look of your home while adding fresh appeal. While style and design are key components of the decision-making process, homeowners often neglect other areas that should be taken into consideration. Whether you choose hardwood, ceramic tiles, vinyl, or laminate flooring, be sure to do your research, especially if you\u2019re planning to do it yourself.&nbsp; Otherwise, the cheapest flooring options can become more costly in the long run.<br>Here are 9 tips to help you avoid common flooring mistakes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Overestimating DIY Skills<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/dyi.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\">While DIY projects can reduce overall project costs, many homeowners don\u2019t have the advanced skills required for the installation. Poor installation may lead to countless problems down the road and can be quite costly. First, it is important to understand the complexity of the installation project.<br>Flooring manufacturers\u2019 websites offer DIY skill level information for each flooring type or a certified flooring retailer can provide information on the difficulty with installation. Second, be honest about your DIY abilities and, if needed, consider hiring a professional installer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Underspending on \u201cCheap\u201d Flooring<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"225\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/low.png\" alt=\"\">Everyone likes\u00a0a good bargain, and finding attractive flooring at a low price can feel like hitting the jackpot. However, the old saying \u201cyou get what you pay for\u201d often rings true with flooring. Be sure to have a good understanding of the floor\u2019s construction, especially if it\u2019s being placed in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas such as the kitchen or bathroom.<br>Lower quality flooring is prone to scratches, scuffs, and stains. Purchasing flooring that is well made will keep your floors looking new longer and is worth the additional up-front investment.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--HubSpot Call-to-Action Code --><span class=\"hs-cta-wrapper\" id=\"hs-cta-wrapper-88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe\"><span class=\"hs-cta-node hs-cta-88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe\" id=\"hs-cta-88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe\"><!--[if lte IE 8]><div id=\"hs-cta-ie-element\"><\/div><![endif]--><a href=\"https:\/\/cta-redirect.hubspot.com\/cta\/redirect\/6786297\/88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"hs-cta-img\" id=\"hs-cta-img-88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe\" style=\"border-width:0px;\" src=\"https:\/\/no-cache.hubspot.com\/cta\/default\/6786297\/88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe.png\"  alt=\"New call-to-action\"\/><\/a><\/span><script charset=\"utf-8\" src=\"https:\/\/js.hscta.net\/cta\/current.js\"><\/script><script type=\"text\/javascript\"> hbspt.cta.load(6786297, '88b06596-96e0-4f24-b73e-4dd2b8fd0fbe', {\"useNewLoader\":\"true\",\"region\":\"na1\"}); <\/script><\/span><!-- end HubSpot Call-to-Action Code -->\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Failing to Research Prior to Installing<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/question2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\">Be sure to look at the whole picture before selecting your flooring. Does the room you are installing the flooring in need enhancements such as mold and trim? Will you need a transitional piece between rooms? Is a subfloor needed? Be sure you have an understanding of these potential necessities so you can install your flooring properly the first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Preparing the Subfloor Incorrectly<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Instal-Porcelain-Tile.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\">After removing your old flooring, it\u2019s critical the subfloor is properly prepared. The subfloor should be smooth, flat and dry. Taking the time to correctly prep your subflooring will help to ensure proper installation while increasing the longevity of your floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Measuring Incorrectly<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/0743_LayFloorTiles_19.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"282\">As the saying goes, measure twice, cut once. This wise advice is sometimes overlooked when prepping for new flooring. Homeowners should pay extra attention if they\u2019re planning on installing flooring themselves so they don\u2019t end up ordering too much or not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Using Products that are Not Recommended for Installation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>With any installation, you\u2019ll need certain products to make sure the floor is properly installed. Depending on the type of flooring you\u2019re installing, you may need adhesives, tile trowels, seam treatments, or grout. Be sure to read the manufactures installation guide for a list of necessary tools and products. This is also not an area to take shortcuts since buying less expensive products can result in an inferior installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"7\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Not Considering Moisture and Humidity<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Moisture is a commonly overlooked factor in DIY flooring, especially in hot and humid areas like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/30756\/GA\/Atlanta\/most-popular-homes\">Atlanta, GA<\/a>. Moisture and humidity can cause wood flooring to warp, leaving it looking way different than when you installed it. Be sure not to install the boards too close together so they have room to expand. If in doubt, consult with a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"8\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Ignoring the Manufacturer\u2019s Recommended Care Instructions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Must-Have-Tile-Installation-Tools-Tile-Saws.jpg\" alt=\"Must Have Tile Installation Tools - Tile Saws\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\">Different flooring types require different cleaning methods. Be sure to carefully read the cleaning and maintenance instructions for your flooring type. For example, using a steam mop on wood or laminate flooring could cause long-term water damage and is something you definitely want to avoid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"9\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong> Disregarding Maintenance Recommendations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Much like your car, your floors need to be properly maintained to extend their longevity. Improper maintenance of your flooring can lead to unnecessary wear and tear and can even void your warranty if you use a product that is not recommended for your floor type. You can find this information on the manufacturer\u2019s website or by calling their customer service hotline.<br>Follow these tips when purchasing your flooring and you\u2019ll avoid the headaches of poor installation and improper maintenance, so you can receive the maximum enjoyment from your home improvement investment.<br>Author bio: Jennifer Karami is a writer at Redfin, a technology-enabled real estate brokerage whose mission is to redefine real estate in the customer\u2019s favor.<br><strong>By: Jennifer Karami<\/strong><br>Thank you Jennifer for this amazing article. If any of our readers want to be feautured in our blog, please send an email to rubitools.usa@rubi.com<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--HubSpot Call-to-Action Code --><span class=\"hs-cta-wrapper\" id=\"hs-cta-wrapper-546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30\"><span class=\"hs-cta-node hs-cta-546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30\" id=\"hs-cta-546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30\"><!--[if lte IE 8]><div id=\"hs-cta-ie-element\"><\/div><![endif]--><a href=\"https:\/\/cta-redirect.hubspot.com\/cta\/redirect\/6786297\/546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"hs-cta-img\" id=\"hs-cta-img-546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30\" style=\"border-width:0px;\" src=\"https:\/\/no-cache.hubspot.com\/cta\/default\/6786297\/546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30.png\"  alt=\"New call-to-action\"\/><\/a><\/span><script charset=\"utf-8\" src=\"https:\/\/js.hscta.net\/cta\/current.js\"><\/script><script type=\"text\/javascript\"> hbspt.cta.load(6786297, '546cde82-0caa-40ad-9f0c-5db503b48a30', {\"useNewLoader\":\"true\",\"region\":\"na1\"}); <\/script><\/span><!-- end HubSpot Call-to-Action Code -->\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Installing new floors is a great way to update the look of your home while adding fresh appeal. While style and design are key components of the decision-making process, homeowners often neglect other areas that should be taken into consideration. Whether you choose hardwood, ceramic tiles, vinyl, or laminate flooring, be sure to do your &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rubi.com\/us\/blog\/9-of-the-biggest-diy-flooring-mistakes-homeowners-make\/\">Continued<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":53,"featured_media":2712,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[382,777],"tags":[403,413,398,384,409,771,389,762,826,395,396,393,394,387],"class_list":["post-9563","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-installation","category-tiling-ideas","tag-rubitoolsusa","tag-ceramic","tag-ceramic-floor-installation","tag-ceramic-floor-tiles","tag-dyi","tag-rubi-tile-cutter","tag-rubi-tile-saws","tag-rubi-tools","tag-tile-cutter","tag-tile-installation","tag-tile-installer","tag-tile-saw","tag-tile-tools","tag-tile-trends"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>9 of the Biggest DIY Flooring Mistakes Homeowners Make &#8211; Rubi Blog USA<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Installing new floors is a great way to update the look of your home while adding fresh appeal. 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