What to Do with Furniture When Getting New Flooring: 8 Smart Tips

Introduction

Installing new flooring can be an exciting journey that brings a fresh look and feel to your home. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to dealing with furniture. Knowing what to do with your furniture during the installation process is essential to protect your belongings and ensure a smooth experience.

Why Moving Furniture is Important

Moving furniture before installing new flooring is not just a practical step; it’s a necessary one to protect your belongings from potential damage. Furniture left in place can get scratched, dented, or otherwise harmed as installers maneuver around it.

Temporary Storage Solutions

Finding temporary storage for your furniture during the flooring installation can be a logistical puzzle, but several options exist:

1. Separate Rooms: Use spare rooms or areas within your home as temporary storage zones.
2. Storage Units: Renting a storage unit can provide a secure off-site solution.

Protective Coverings

Covering furniture with protective materials can help prevent dust and debris from settling on it during the flooring installation:

• Plastic Wraps: Effective for keeping dust off larger pieces.
• Furniture Covers: Specialized covers offer additional protection against scratches and dents.

The Balance Between Excitement and Challenges

The excitement surrounding new flooring is palpable. The fresh look and feel can dramatically enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality. Yet, this enthusiasm must be balanced with careful consideration of the logistics involved:

1. Planning Ahead: Proper planning ensures that your furniture is safely stored and protected throughout the process.
2. Smooth Transition: Ensuring that everything is well-organized will make the transition from old to new flooring seamless.

The Importance of Preparation

Preparation is key because:

1. Damage Prevention: Avoid unnecessary damage to both furniture and new floors.
2. Efficiency: A well-prepared space allows installers to work more efficiently.

By taking these steps into account, you can embrace the transformation that new flooring brings while ensuring your valuable furniture remains safe and sound.

1. Clearing the Room Completely

Removing all furniture from the room is a crucial first step in preparing for new flooring installation, whether you are opting for hardwood flooring or carpet installation. This allows you to access the entire floor area without obstacles, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. Here’s a detailed guide on how to clear out your room effectively:

Why Clear the Room?

• Unobstructed Access: Moving all furniture out provides installers with unhindered access to every corner of the room, which is particularly important for precise installations such as hardwood flooring.
• Protecting Your Furniture: It minimizes the risk of damage to your furniture from tools, adhesives, or dust and debris.
• Ensuring Level Installation: For carpet installation or any other type of flooring, removing rugs and exposing the subfloor helps ensure that the new flooring is even and stable.

Steps to Clear the Room

• Remove All FurnitureStart by taking out smaller items like chairs, side tables, and decor pieces.
• For larger items like sofas, beds, or wardrobes, you might need help or additional tools. Disassemble if necessary to make moving easier.
• Take Out Rugs and CarpetsRoll up area rugs and remove any underlayments.
• If existing carpets cover the floor, they need to be fully removed along with tack strips to expose the subfloor.
• Remove Baseboards and Door FramesUse a pry bar to carefully detach baseboards from walls. Label them for easy reinstallation later.
• For door frames, unscrew or carefully pry off trims to avoid breaking them.
• Disassemble Large Furniture ItemsIf you have large furniture pieces like sectional sofas or king-sized beds, disassemble them if possible.
• Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags for easy reassembly.

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Gather Necessary Tools: Screwdrivers, pry bars, moving blankets, furniture sliders, and dollies are essential.

Enlist Help: For heavy items, ask family members or friends for assistance.

Protect Floors During Removal: Use sliders under heavy furniture legs to prevent scratching existing floors during removal.

Clearing out your room before installing new flooring sets a solid foundation for a successful project. It not only makes the installation process smoother but also protects your valuable furniture pieces from potential damage. Now that the room is ready for new floors, it’s time to think about where you’ll store your furniture during this transformation phase.

2. Creating Different Zones for Storage

Creating designated storage zones for furniture is a strategic way to manage your space during the flooring installation process. This method not only keeps your belongings organized but also ensures an efficient and streamlined workflow for the installers.

Plan Ahead

Before the installation begins, take some time to plan where you will place your furniture. This advance preparation helps avoid last-minute chaos and allows for a smoother transition when moving pieces around. Here are some key considerations:

• Evaluate Available Space: Assess the areas in your home that can temporarily house furniture. Think about spare rooms, garages, basements, or even outdoor spaces if weather permits.
• Measure Furniture: Understanding the dimensions of your furniture will help you determine how much space you’ll need in each storage zone.

Utilize Different Areas of Your Home

Different parts of your home can serve as temporary storage zones. By creatively using these spaces, you can keep your furniture safe and out of the way.

• Spare Rooms: If you have unused bedrooms or guest rooms, these can be ideal spots to store larger items like beds and dressers.
• Garages and Basements: These areas often have ample space for storing bulky items such as sofas and dining tables.
• Outdoor Spaces: In favorable weather conditions, covered patios or decks can offer temporary storage solutions.

Dividing Your Home into Storage Zones

To manage the furniture moving process effectively, divide your home into specific storage zones. This approach ensures that each room’s furniture has a designated spot during the flooring project.

• Label Each Zone: Clearly mark each storage area with labels indicating which room’s furniture it contains. This labeling helps streamline the process of moving items back once the new floors are installed.
• Use Floor Plans: Create a simple floor plan sketch to visualize where each piece of furniture will go during the transition.

Protecting Your Furniture

When setting up these storage zones, it’s essential to protect your furniture from potential damage. Here are some creative ideas:

• Tarps and Plastic Wrap: Use tarps or plastic wrap to cover large items, shielding them from dust and debris.
• Furniture Pads: Consider using furniture pads or blankets to wrap delicate pieces, preventing scratches and dents.

Example Scenario: Setting Up Storage Zones

Imagine you’re installing new hardwood floors in your living room and dining area. To prepare:

• Spare Room Setup:Move smaller living room items like side tables and lamps into a spare bedroom.
• Use tarps to cover these items.
• Garage Storage:Move larger pieces such as the sofa and dining table into the garage.
• Wrap these items with plastic wrap or blankets for added protection.
• Outdoor Area:If weather allows, place non-delicate items like patio chairs on a covered deck.
• Ensure these items are secure from potential rain or wind damage.

Creating different zones for storage not only helps with organization but also makes it easier when placing furniture on new floors after installation. Proper planning and protection measures ensure that your valuable pieces remain safe throughout the flooring upgrade process.

3. Renting a Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit can be an excellent solution when you’re getting new flooring installed. It provides a secure, temporary storage space for your furniture, ensuring it remains undamaged and out of the way during the installation process.

Benefits of Using a Storage Unit

• Safety and SecurityA storage unit offers a controlled environment where your furniture can be kept safe from potential damage.
• Most storage facilities have security measures such as surveillance cameras and secure locks, giving you peace of mind.
• ConvenienceHaving your furniture off-site means that installers have clear, unobstructed access to the entire floor area.
• This reduces the risk of accidental damage to your belongings during the flooring project.

Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit

When selecting a storage unit, size is a crucial consideration. Here are some tips to help you choose:

• Inventory Your FurnitureMake a list of all the items that need to be stored. Include dimensions to determine how much space you’ll need.
• Unit Size GuideFor smaller projects (e.g., one or two rooms), a 5×10 or 10×10 unit might suffice.
• Larger projects may require units ranging from 10×15 to 10×30.

Protecting Your Furniture

Properly wrapping and protecting your furniture is essential before placing it in the storage unit:

• Use Protective CoversWrap furniture in protective materials like bubble wrap, moving blankets, or plastic covers.
• Disassemble Large ItemsTake apart large pieces such as beds and tables to save space and prevent damage.
• Label EverythingClearly label each item or box so you can easily locate and reassemble them later.

Packing Techniques for Maximizing Space

Efficient packing techniques can help you make the most of your storage unit:

• Stack StrategicallyPlace heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top.
• Use vertical space by stacking items securely.
• Utilize ShelvingPortable shelving units can help organize smaller items and keep them off the floor.
• Create AislesLeave narrow walkways between stacks so you can easily access different items if needed.

Selecting a Storage Facility

Choosing the right storage facility is as important as selecting the correct unit size:

• Location ProximityOpt for a facility close to your home for easy access.
• Climate ControlConsider climate-controlled units if you’re storing sensitive items like wooden furniture or electronics.
• Security FeaturesEnsure the facility has robust security measures such as gated access, alarm systems, and good lighting.

Renting a storage unit offers an effective way to keep your furniture safe during flooring installations. Proper planning in terms of size selection, protective wrapping, and efficient packing maximizes both space utilization and safety.

4. Using Vertical Space and Wall Storage Efficiently

When it comes to moving furniture, it’s important to think beyond just the floor. One smart tactic that often gets overlooked is making use of vertical space and wall storage.

Creating More Floor Space

• Move Heavy Furniture Away from Walls: This simple step can create more room for flooring installation. By pulling heavy furniture pieces away from the walls, you can make it easier for installers to access the entire floor area. This maneuver also prevents any accidental damage to your furniture during the process.
• Initial Furniture Placement: Before starting the flooring project, consider how you will place your furniture back in the room. Opt for taller, narrower pieces that maximize vertical space rather than sprawling horizontally. This approach leaves more floor area open and showcases your new flooring effectively.

Utilizing Wall Storage

• Shelves and Cabinets: Installing shelves or cabinets on your walls provides an excellent storage solution for smaller items. Instead of cluttering the floor with these objects, you can keep them organized and out of the way on higher levels.
• Hanging Organizers: These are perfect for storing everyday items such as keys, tools, or small decorations that typically occupy space on countertops or tables. Hanging organizers free up valuable floor space and make items easily accessible.

Creative Vertical Storage Solutions

• Stacking Chairs Vertically: If you’re short on horizontal space but have plenty of vertical room, consider stacking chairs or other similar furniture pieces. This method helps consolidate space while keeping your essential items within reach.
• Hooks and Pegboards: Utilize hooks or pegboards to hang items like bags, hats, or even lightweight furniture pieces such as foldable tables or stools. Pegboards are especially versatile as they can be rearranged to suit different storage needs over time.

Maximizing Space with Taller Furniture

When planning where to put your furniture after the flooring project:

• Choose Tall, Narrow Pieces: Furniture such as bookcases, tallboys, or vertical dressers offer ample storage without occupying too much floor space. They allow you to maintain a clean, spacious look in your rooms while providing enough storage capacity.
• Wall-Mounted Desks and Tables: These pieces save significant floor space by being attached directly to the wall. They are perfect for smaller rooms where every square foot counts.

Incorporating these strategies not only makes your flooring installation go more smoothly but also helps you stay organized and use your space efficiently. By thinking vertically and using wall storage effectively, you can turn your home into a more functional and visually appealing environment during and after your flooring upgrade.

5. Seeking Help from Professionals

When tackling a flooring project, it can be beneficial to enlist the help of professionals for both moving and storing furniture. This ensures that your valuable items are handled with care and remain undamaged throughout the installation process.

Utilizing Storage Spaces

Consider utilizing storage spaces to temporarily store your furniture while the new flooring is being installed. Options include:

• Storage Units: These provide a secure environment for your belongings, protecting them from dust, debris, and potential damage.
• Portable Storage Containers: Companies like PODS deliver containers to your home, which you can load at your convenience. The company then stores the container until you’re ready for its return.

Properly wrap and protect your furniture before placing it in these storage spaces. Use blankets, bubble wrap, or specialty moving pads to prevent scratches and dents.

Hiring Professional Furniture Moving Services

Professional furniture moving services specialize in safely transporting and storing household items during renovations. Benefits of hiring professionals include:

• Expert Handling: Movers are trained to handle delicate items such as antiques, artwork, and fragile pieces.
• Efficient Transport: They have the necessary equipment and vehicles to move heavy or bulky furniture efficiently.
• Insurance Coverage: Most reputable moving companies offer insurance options that cover potential damages during transport.

Assistance from Flooring Professionals

Flooring professionals often provide recommendations or additional services to help manage your furniture during installation. This can include:

• Referrals: Flooring experts may recommend trusted movers or storage solutions that they have worked with previously.
• Bundled Services: Some flooring companies offer comprehensive packages that include furniture moving services as part of the installation process.

Consult with your flooring contractor to understand all available options and make an informed decision.

Tips for Finding Reputable Movers

Finding reliable movers is crucial for ensuring the safety of your belongings. Here are some tips:

1. Research Thoroughly: Look for companies with positive reviews and high ratings on platforms such as Google Reviews, Yelp, or Angie’s List.
2. Check Credentials: Verify that the company is licensed and insured. Membership in professional organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) can also indicate reliability.
3. Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain estimates from at least three different companies to compare prices and services offered.
4. Ask About Experience: Inquire about their experience with handling delicate or high-value items during home renovation projects.

Cost Estimates

Understanding cost factors will help you budget accordingly:

• Size of Move: Larger moves typically cost more due to increased labor and transportation needs.
• Distance: Longer distances may incur higher transportation fees.
• Special Services: Additional services like packing/unpacking, disassembly/reassembly, or special handling of fragile items may add to the total cost.

By planning ahead and seeking professional assistance, you can ensure a smooth transition during your flooring project without risking damage to your valuable furniture pieces.

6. DIY Furniture Protection Techniques

When you’re installing new floors, it’s important to take steps to protect both your furniture and the new flooring. Luckily, there are simple things you can do yourself to prevent any damage and save money on potential repairs.

Shielding Your Floors with Carpet Protectors and Plastic Sheeting

One of the easiest ways to protect your floors during installation is by using carpet protectors or plastic sheeting. These handy tools create a barrier around your furniture, guarding against dust, debris, and accidental spills. Here’s how you can use them:

• Plastic sheeting: You can find this material at most hardware stores. Simply spread it out over large areas to cover the floor.
• Carpet protectors: Designed specifically for carpets, these protectors can also be used on other types of flooring to keep them clean and safe.

Minimizing Damage with Furniture Pads

Another effective technique is to apply furniture pads to the legs or bases of heavy items. These pads provide a cushioning effect that helps prevent scratches and dents. There are different types of pads available:

• Felt pads: Great for furniture that gets moved around frequently, felt pads reduce friction and protect the surface of the floor.
• Rubber pads: Ideal for heavier pieces like sofas or tables, rubber pads absorb impact and offer extra support.

Sliding Furniture Smoothly with Felt Pads and Glides

If you have furniture that needs to be moved often, using felt pads or glides can be a game-changer. Here’s why they’re beneficial:

• Reducing friction: These pads make it easy for you to slide your furniture across the floor without causing any damage.
• Preventing scratches: By acting as a protective layer between the floor and your furniture, felt pads and glides help keep your floors looking their best.

Trying Out Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry! There are still plenty of ways you can protect your floors without breaking the bank:

• Old blankets or towels: Simply place these under the legs of your furniture to create a soft barrier that prevents scratches.
• Cut-up fabric pieces: Instead of buying expensive furniture pads, you can use leftover fabric scraps as a temporary solution.

Not only are these alternatives affordable, but they also allow you to repurpose items you already have at home.

Why Proper Protection Matters

You might be wondering why all this fuss about protecting your floors. Well, here are three important reasons:

1. Preventing damage: Scratches, dents, and other types of damage can significantly shorten the lifespan of your new flooring.
2. Maintaining appearance: By keeping your floors free from scratches, you ensure that they stay looking beautiful for a longer period of time.
3. Saving money: When you take proactive steps to avoid damage, you’ll end up spending less on repairs and replacements down the line.

So make sure to use these techniques and give your furniture and new floors the care they deserve during the installation process.

7. Inspecting and Cleaning Furniture After Installation

After we’ve successfully installed your new flooring, it’s important to inspect and clean your furniture before putting it back in place. This step is crucial for keeping your newly renovated space clean and ensuring that your furniture remains in good condition.

Inspect Your Furniture for Damage

Start by carefully examining each piece of furniture:

• Check for Scratches and Dents: Look closely for any visible damage that may have occurred during the moving process. Pay extra attention to corners and legs, as they are more likely to get bumped.
• Examine Upholstery: Check upholstered furniture for any tears or stains that might have happened while it was stored or being moved.
• Assess Structural Integrity: Make sure that all joints, screws, and other structural parts are secure and not loose.

If you come across any damage, it’s best to deal with it right away. Minor scratches on wooden furniture can often be repaired using wood fillers or touch-up markers. For more significant damage, consider seeking help from a professional.

Thoroughly Clean Your Furniture

During the installation process, dust and debris can settle on your furniture. To maintain a clean environment:

• Dust Hard Surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth to gently remove dust from wooden and metal surfaces. This will help get rid of fine particles without causing any scratches.
• Vacuum Upholstery: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to eliminate dust from sofas, chairs, and other fabric-covered pieces. For leather furniture, use a damp cloth followed by a dry one to keep the material soft.
• Clean Glass: Use a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe down glass surfaces and achieve a streak-free shine.

Consider using air purifiers or dehumidifiers to get rid of any remaining dust in the room itself.

Protect Your New Flooring

To prevent future scratches on your newly installed flooring:

• Use Furniture Pads: Attach felt pads or rubber glides to the legs of tables, chairs, sofas, and other heavy items. These pads reduce friction when moving furniture, thus preventing scratches on your new floors.
• Consider Protective Covers: For frequently moved items like dining chairs, think about using slipcovers or additional padding.

Cleaning Tips for Different Furniture Materials

Each type of furniture material requires its own specific cleaning methods:

• Wood Furniture: Use a wood cleaner or polish that is suitable for the type of wood finish you have. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage protective layers.
• Leather Furniture: Clean with a leather conditioner or mild soap solution. Always test any cleaning product on a hidden area first.
• Fabric Upholstery: Spot clean with cleaners that are safe for fabrics. For stubborn stains, it may be necessary to seek professional cleaning services.

Regular maintenance is key to preserving both the appearance and functionality of your furniture.

Final Checks Before Putting Furniture Back

Before placing your furniture back into the room:

1. Make sure all pieces are completely dry after cleaning.
2. Double-check for any missed spots or lingering dust particles.

Properly inspecting and cleaning your furniture after installing new flooring not only helps prolong the lifespan of both your floors and furnishings but also breathes new life into your living space.

8. The Final Move-In

Understanding the Costs

When planning for new flooring, it’s crucial to consider the cost of moving furniture for flooring installation. This expense can encompass:

• Labor costs: Hiring professionals to move your furniture safely.
• Equipment or tools: Renting or buying dollies, sliders, and protective covers.

Budgeting for these costs upfront can prevent unexpected financial strain.

Professional Moving Services

Exploring professional furniture moving services can significantly reduce hassle. These services offer:

• Expertise in handling delicate items: Ensuring your valuable pieces are moved without damage.
• Efficient use of time: Professionals can streamline the process, allowing the flooring installation to proceed without delay.

Engaging a reputable moving service provides peace of mind and protects your investment in both the flooring and your furniture.

Budgeting for Additional Expenses

Proper planning involves accounting for all potential expenses:

• Temporary storage: Renting a storage unit if you lack space at home.
• Accommodations: In some cases, staying elsewhere might be necessary during extensive installations.

Being prepared ensures a smooth transition and avoids any last-minute scramble.

The Move-In Process

Once the new floors are installed and fully cured, it’s time to move your furniture back in. Here’s how to approach this step efficiently and safely:

Plan Placement Ahead:

• Sketch out a floor plan to determine where each piece of furniture will go.
• This minimizes heavy lifting and ensures everything fits perfectly on the first try.

Use Protection:

• Place protective pads or covers on furniture legs to prevent scratching the new flooring.
• Utilize sliders or dollies to move heavy items without damaging the floor surface.

Work Methodically:

• Start with larger pieces such as sofas and tables, then fill in with smaller items.
• Ensure pathways are clear to avoid tripping hazards during the move-in process.

Inspect as You Go:

• Check each piece for any signs of damage sustained during storage or moving.
• Clean off any dust or debris that might have settled during installation.

Caution During Rearrangement

Rearranging furniture on newly installed floors requires special care:

• Lift rather than drag items to avoid scratches or gouges.
• Consider enlisting help from friends or family to manage larger pieces safely.

Taking these precautions preserves the integrity of your new flooring and keeps your home looking pristine.

By following these steps, you ensure not only a successful flooring installation but also a seamless transition back into a beautifully refreshed space. Proper planning and execution make all the difference in maintaining both your floors and your cherished furniture in top condition.

Conclusion

Embarking on a home remodeling project like installing new flooring can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor. Proper planning and preparation play crucial roles in safeguarding your furniture and ensuring a smooth installation process.

Key Considerations:

• Storing Furniture: Relocate your furniture to another room or area of the house during the flooring installation. This step not only prevents damage but also keeps the workspace clear for contractors.
• Deep Clean and Maintenance: Moving furniture presents a golden opportunity to deep clean and maintain appliances. With large pieces out of the way, accessing and servicing these appliances becomes significantly easier.
• Pet Care: Home remodeling can be stressful for pets. Create a safe and comfortable space away from potential hazards to ensure their well-being during the flooring upgrade.

Implementing These Tips:

1. Clear the Room Completely:

• Remove all items, including rugs, baseboards, and door frames.
• Disassemble large furniture if necessary to facilitate easier moving and storage.

Create Storage Zones:

• Designate specific areas within your home to temporarily store furniture.
• Utilize spare rooms, garages, or even rented storage units as needed.
• Protect stored items with tarps or plastic wrap to avoid dust accumulation.

Renting a Storage Unit:

• Calculate the size of the unit based on your furniture’s dimensions.
• Wrap and protect each piece before storage to prevent any damage.
• Choose an appropriately sized unit and use efficient packing techniques to maximize space.

Utilize Vertical Space:

• Move heavy furniture away from walls to free up floor space.
• Use wall-mounted shelves or cabinets for smaller items.
• Opt for taller, narrower pieces when re-arranging your room post-installation.

The Final Move-In:

Reintegrating your furniture into the freshly floored room requires careful consideration. Budget for potential labor costs or professional moving services if necessary. Cautiously handle each piece to avoid scratching or damaging your new floors.

Final Thoughts:

While flooring upgrades can disrupt your daily routine, meticulous planning ensures both aesthetic enhancement and functional improvement of your living space.

Home remodeling projects offer unique opportunities beyond just upgrading aesthetics. Take advantage of this time to perform appliance maintenance, ensuring they operate efficiently without obstruction from large furniture pieces.

Moreover, considering pet care during such projects is essential. Designate secure zones away from hazards where pets can remain comfortable throughout the process.

By implementing these strategies when faced with similar situations in future home improvement endeavors, you will achieve successful outcomes that enhance both beauty and function in your living environment.

Embrace the journey towards transforming your home by approaching it with thorough preparation and thoughtful execution.