First is this new floor part of an extensive remodel in your home. If so, make sure you complete the floor installation before after you have completed your wall and ceiling.

Always protect your floor once you have laid it down. Use tarps or special paper products made to protect floors.

Second, measure then measure again the area in which you plan to lay your new floor, so you can purchase the amount of material necessary for your project.

You should measure the full width and length of the space to calculate the overall square footage, then subtract the square footage of areas in the room you are doing that will not be covered by the new material such as stairways, built in cabinets and all other permanent fixtures in the room.

Below is a checklist that can help you start flooring project.

1. With any diy project, the most important first step is measuring your project area. Make sure you include closets and any small nook in the room, along with any area that is under moveable appliances. Add the total square footage, this is importaant so you buy the right amount of materials needed for your project.

2. It is wise to put a floor plan on graph paper with your measurements.

3. Using tracing paper lay it over the floor plan, sketch options on the tracing paper to help visualize what the flooring will look like installed.

4. You will probably have areas where your new floor will switch to other flooring material. This is the time to select a threshold material to compliment the transition.

5. It is important to estimate the amount of preparation materials you are going to need for your project, including floor leveler and underlayment sheets.

6. Now is the time to also list and estimate the amount of installation materials that you are going to need. For Example, floor covering, adhesives, thresholds, grouts tackless strips and screws. A good tip for doing this estimate is go to your local home improvement center and read the labels of the materials and adhesives you plan on using to determine the necessary coverage of each product.

7. Tools for the project. Make a list of what tools are required for your floor installation. Make arrangements to rent what tools you do not have.

8. At this point, estimate your total project cost including prep materials, flooring and installation materials and tools. You then should do
comparison-shopping to get the best prices.

9. Find out about delivery cost from your local home centers. Many times it is inexpensive enough to make it worth your while to have all your materials delivered.

10. If you are going to have extensive demolition, you must plan on how to remove it. Either your local garbage collection can handle it or you have to rent a dumpster.

Finally plan out your project, so if you have to relocate furnishing or appliances you get it set up before hand to cause the least disruption to your family every day life.

As with any diy project, you need a plan and to stay organized. Just go step-by-step with your floor installation.

Get yourself detailed and easy to read plans along with informational videos to and up with a floor that is not only beautiful but also functional.