Before You Begin: Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Take time to consider these factors before shopping:
- Which rooms need new flooring?
- How much foot traffic does each room receive?
- Do you have children, pets, or both?
- What is your budget range per square foot?
- How long do you plan to stay in your home?
- What maintenance level are you comfortable with?
- Do you prefer warm underfoot or cool surfaces?
Understanding Your Space
Room-by-Room Considerations
High-Traffic Areas (Entryways, Hallways, Kitchens)
- Consider durability and scratch resistance as primary factors
- Look for materials that are easy to clean
- Think about slip resistance, especially near exterior doors
Moisture-Prone Areas (Bathrooms, Laundry, Basements)
- Prioritize water-resistant or waterproof options
- Consider mold and mildew resistance
- Factor in subfloor moisture levels
Living Spaces (Living Room, Dining Room, Bedrooms)
- Balance comfort and aesthetics
- Consider acoustic properties (sound absorption)
- Think about how the flooring complements your furniture and decor
The Subfloor Factor
Your subfloor condition significantly impacts which flooring options work best:
- Concrete subfloors: May require moisture testing; some materials need moisture barriers
- Plywood/OSB subfloors: Generally compatible with most flooring types; check for levelness
- Existing flooring: Some new floors can be installed over existing; others cannot
Pro Tip: Always have your subfloor inspected before purchasing flooring. Uneven subfloors may require leveling, which adds to project costs and timeline.
Climate Considerations for Montana
- Temperature fluctuations: Montana's temperature swings can cause expansion and contraction in some materials
- Humidity levels: Our dry winters and variable seasons affect wood products differently than humid climates
- Radiant heating: If you have or want in-floor heating, not all flooring types are compatible
- Entryway conditions: Snow, mud, and gravel tracking are real concerns—plan accordingly
Lifestyle Factors Checklist
- I have pets that may scratch floors
- I have young children who may spill frequently
- I entertain guests regularly
- I prefer low-maintenance solutions
- I am comfortable with regular refinishing/resealing
- I want flooring that adds resale value
- I plan to install flooring myself (DIY)
- I have family members with mobility concerns
- I have allergies or sensitivities to certain materials
Budget Planning Guide
When budgeting for flooring, remember to account for:
Material Costs:
- Flooring material (per sq. ft.)
- Underlayment or padding
- Transition strips
- Adhesives or fasteners
Additional Costs:
- Removal of old flooring
- Subfloor repairs or leveling
- Professional installation
- Furniture moving
Budget Tip: Order 10-15% extra material to account for cuts, waste, and future repairs. This also ensures color/dye-lot consistency.
Questions to Ask at the Showroom
- What is the warranty coverage and duration?
- What maintenance does this flooring require?
- Is this product suitable for my specific rooms?
- What is the expected lifespan with normal use?
- Can I take samples home to view in my lighting?
- What is the lead time for ordering?
- Do you offer professional installation services?
- Is this product compatible with radiant heating?
Sample Viewing Tips
- View samples in both natural and artificial light
- Place samples on your actual floor to see context
- Look at larger samples when possible—small chips can be deceiving
- Consider how the color coordinates with your walls, cabinets, and furniture
- Ask about color variation between samples and delivered product
Installation Preparation
- Clear the installation area of all furniture and belongings
- Ensure adequate ventilation for installation day
- Allow new flooring to acclimate (varies by material type)
- Plan for alternative living arrangements if needed
- Coordinate with any other contractors (painters, etc.)
- Know where utilities and subfloor access points are located