Can you picture your new, beautiful vinyl flooring?
Expertly installed, clean and stunning? If so, our vinyl specialists at Carefree Carpets & Floors want you to be able to savor this picture for as long as possible. The best way to do so is to be prepared for installation day!
Being prepared and involved will help ensure that the installation process will be done smoothly and efficiently. Knowing what to expect will be a lot less stressful on you, your family and your home and will hopefully eliminate expressions of “I wish I’d known that.”
Before Installation Day
Priority One: Moving Your Furniture.
Remove all furniture and other objects and materials from the areas where the installation will take place. Some installers will move your furniture, but there may be an additional charge for doing so. Before moving, you’ll also need to empty the contents of china cabinets, closets and the like. Also, be aware that the area of installation must be climate-controlled (heated or air conditioned). Indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.
Decide about Your Old Floor Covering.
Please consider how your old floor covering will be taken up and disposed of. This can be a time-consuming task. We recommend that you check with us about the cost and the method of disposal. If you prefer to remove your present floor covering, do it at least one day prior to arrival of your vinyl product to allow for cleanup and floor preparation. If removing old carpet, please leave tack strips in place and pull the staples out of the floor from the original pad.
What About the Trim?
In many cases, moldings and baseboards need to be removed for vinyl installation. Your installer may do this but at an additional charge, and they will probably not be responsible for damage or breakage due to dry or brittle wood. Painted baseboards, woodwork and paint may need retouching after the installation is complete. If necessary, this is your responsibility.
Next is the Subflooring.
Your existing subfloor may need to be prepared to receive the vinyl, or a new subfloor may be required. We suggest you discuss this with us and, if subfloor work is necessary, that it be done by qualified professionals. It is important that the subfloor be as clean and level as possible.
Be Prepared about the Clean-Up Process.
Installing new vinyl will produce waste. Usually these materials are collected by your installer and left at your trash collection site. Check with our representatives at Carefree Carpets & Floors before the day of installation so you’re clear about the clean-up process and if there will added costs. Also be sure to ask about the plan for vinyl remnants.
During Installation Day
Be Home on Installation Day.
Be prepared to be at home the day of installation and be available in case the installation crew has questions. Your presence will ensure that the correct vinyl is installed in the right areas. Since it is difficult to estimate the length and circumstances of each job, some installers may not be able to give you an exact time of arrival. We suggest you be flexible and keep in touch with us.
Safety First!
Your installers will use a variety of tools and techniques that can make the work area hazardous. Please make sure that your children and pets are kept out of the work area on installation day.
Do a Walk-Through and Ask Questions.
We recommend that, prior to the completion of the installation, you walk through the job with the chief installer. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions and be clear on any final details.
After Installation Day
Time and Temp are Important.
For a minimum of 24 hours after your new vinyl floor is installed, protect all the seamed areas, don't walk on them or the seam sealer. Keep the room at 68° F or greater for at least 2 days after installation to allow the adhesives to setup properly. If you are sensitive to dust and odors, good ventilation should be established for 48 to 72 hours after installation.
When you are ready to move appliances back into the room, an underlayment type of product, such as plywood or particleboard with a minimum thickness of 3/8”, should be placed on the new flooring prior to moving the appliances. This will greatly reduce any mishaps.
Do not rely on the wheels that may be attached to the refrigerator to move the appliance back in as they can cause damage to the new floor.
Allow 5 days before thoroughly washing your floor. This will give time for the adhesive to cure.
