When it comes to home renovations, flooring can often be one of the biggest expenses. But what if I told you there’s a way to save big on your next flooring project? It’s simple—buy your flooring online and install it yourself! As someone who’s worked in flooring sales and installation for years, I’ve seen countless DIY renovators tackle this job with great results, and I’m here to guide you through the process. Whether you're installing carpet, laminate, vinyl plank, hybrid, or engineered timber, going the DIY route can save you a significant amount of money while giving your home a professional finish.
Why Buy Flooring Online?
Save Money by Cutting Out the Middleman
One of the first steps to saving on flooring is to buy it online. By purchasing from an online retailer like Elevate Flooring, you’re cutting out the middleman. Online retailers often have lower overheads compared to physical stores, which means you can find better deals on high-quality materials. I’ve had customers tell me they found the exact same flooring online for a fraction of the price they were quoted in a store.
Access to a Huge Range of Options
Shopping for flooring online opens up a world of possibilities. You’re no longer limited by the stock of a local store; you can browse hundreds of styles, materials, and finishes to find something that matches your exact vision for your home. The best part? Most online retailers, including us here at Elevate Flooring, offer free samples. You can have them sent straight to your door to check how the flooring looks and feels in your space before committing.
Tips for Choosing Flooring Online
- Research Materials: Understand the pros and cons of each type of flooring, from carpet to vinyl plank, and determine what’s best for your lifestyle.
- Read Reviews: Customer reviews can give you insight into the durability and performance of the flooring.
- Order Samples: Getting samples is crucial. Not only can you test them in different lighting, but it also lets you compare colours and finishes.
Why DIY Installation?
Saving on Labour Costs
The biggest financial advantage of DIY installation? You don’t have to pay labour costs. Depending on the size of the space and the complexity of the job, hiring a professional installer can cost thousands of dollars. But by taking the plunge and installing it yourself, you can keep that money in your pocket.
Flexible Timing
Another benefit of doing it yourself is that you can work on your own schedule. No need to wait for an installer to be available. If you’ve got a weekend free, you can knock out a room or two, and if you need to take breaks in between, no worries!
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for most flooring types:
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- Underlay
- Spacers
- Installation kit (for click-lock systems)
- Flooring-specific tools (e.g., saw for engineered timber, roller for vinyl plank)
Best Flooring Options for DIY Installation
Carpet Tiles: Customisable and Easy to Install
Carpet tiles are a breeze to install. They’re essentially peel-and-stick squares, so there’s no need to mess around with carpet stretchers or tack strips. Plus, they’re super easy to replace if one gets stained. I’ve recommended them to a lot of parents with young kids because they’re affordable and practical.
Laminate Flooring: User-Friendly and Affordable
Laminate flooring is another fantastic option for DIYers. With modern click-lock systems, it’s as simple as snapping the boards together. No glue, no nails—just a smooth, clean installation. I’ve seen first-timers lay down laminate in a day, and it looks just as good as a professional job.
Vinyl Plank Flooring: Waterproof and Durable
Vinyl plank flooring is perfect if you’re working in moisture-prone areas like the kitchen or bathroom. It’s waterproof, durable, and easy to cut to size with just a utility knife. And with its floating installation system, you don’t even need nails or glue.
Hybrid Flooring: High-Tech and Stylish
Hybrid flooring combines the best of laminate and vinyl, making it durable and stylish. It’s 100% waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to install. I’ve seen customers transform their homes with hybrid flooring, achieving that high-end look without breaking the bank.
Engineered Timber Flooring: Classic Look, Easier Install
If you want the beauty of real timber without the complexity of hardwood installation, engineered timber flooring is the way to go. It offers a classic, timeless look with a much easier installation process, especially with the click-lock system.
Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Subfloor Preparation
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve seen people make is installing their new flooring on an uneven subfloor. This can lead to all kinds of issues, from creaking sounds to uneven surfaces. Before you start laying anything down, make sure your subfloor is clean, dry, and level.
Failing to Leave Expansion Gaps
All flooring materials need room to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. Failing to leave expansion gaps along the walls can cause your flooring to buckle. Trust me, I’ve learned this one the hard way!
Rushing the Job
Take your time and don’t rush through the process. Measure twice, cut once, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. It’s always better to take an extra minute to do it right than to have to redo it later.
DIY Flooring Installation Saves Big
By buying your flooring online and taking on the installation yourself, you can significantly cut costs while still achieving the high-end look you’re after. It might seem intimidating at first, but with the right planning, tools, and resources, you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. And nothing beats the satisfaction of knowing you did it all yourself—and saved a bunch of cash in the process.
Get Started Today!
If you’re ready to start your flooring journey and save big, check out our range of flooring at Elevate Flooring. We offer a wide selection of high-quality carpet, laminate, vinyl plank, hybrid, and engineered timber flooring at unbeatable prices. Plus, we’ll ship samples straight to your door, so you can find the perfect match for your home. Why wait? Elevate your space with premium flooring and take the first step toward a sleek, stylish, and cost-effective renovation today!