Budgeting for a new floor can be difficult and unpredictable, a common theme when it comes to home improvement projects. But, as difficult as it may be, budgeting for your new floor is an important step and one that can be accomplished with a great degree of accuracy if you follow these useful tips.
HOW TO SAVE:
Follow the 20 percent rule.
As you create your budget, set aside at least 20 percent for cost overrun, material cost-difference, or other “surprises.” These are more common than not during improvement projects like floor remodels, and when something goes wrong the money does need to come from somewhere. Protect your savings by building a substantial pad into your budget from day one.
Stick to the plan.
The worst way to destroy a budget is to change your mind about the project partway through the job. Make every effort to pick the right flooring material, color, pattern, stain, and all other details up front and stick with them to the end. Change orders add time and expense, and depending on which stage of the process are you are at, the supplies you’ve already used may not be refundable.
Buy In-Stock.
Buying from stock will almost always help you narrow down your options more quickly and save you money compared to special orders chosen from samples. In-stock flooring is usually decent quality and is purchased by dealers (like us) in bulk at a discount, which is then passed on to customers like you.
Build Basic Where You Can.
Your budget can and should look very different when you are furnishing different types of rooms. If you need a new floor for a child’s bedroom, you can basically use an inexpensive, readily available section of remnant carpet or in-stock section of hardwood. The bed will cover most of the floor and very few visitors will ever see the room. However, if you are furnishing a kitchen or living room, you should consider your options much more carefully.
WHEN TO SPLURGE:
When Durability is An Issue.
High traffic areas should receive more expensive materials able to stand up to wear and tear without breaking down or requiring repair or replacement. Consider tile, for instance. Inexpensive ceramic tile can shatter easily when pots and pans are dropped. Porcelain tile, while more expensive, offers a higher degree of shatter resistance and is a better choice for busy kitchens. The same goes for different varieties of carpeting in the living room, and hardwood floor varieties in living spaces, kitchens, or walkways.
When You are Finishing an Entertainment Zone.
Any areas of your home where you host guests, such as the living room, kitchen, or a sitting room, should receive a floor that you like and that you want to show off. Work on making these areas highly presentable and tied- together, while cutting back and choosing inexpensive options elsewhere. This should give you the best bang for your buck in terms of home value and presentation.
For all your flooring needs, including sales, installation, and repair in Contra Costa County, contact Concord Carpet and Hardwood today at 925-691- 7101!
