If you’re thinking about renovating your home this year, here are five essential tips from your “trusted flooring advisor” to ensure your investment stands the test of time.
1. Humidity is Enemy #1 (And How to Beat It)
North Carolina is beautiful, but our humidity is a real factor for any home. Moisture causes wood to expand and contract, which can lead to warping or gaps over time.
- The Solution: If you are flooring a basement, a kitchen, or a busy bathroom, LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) is your best ally. It is 100% waterproof and incredibly durable. Today’s high-end LVP mimics the texture and grain of real wood so perfectly that most guests won’t even know the difference.
2. Never Ignore the Subfloor
This is the “secret” to a professional-looking floor. I often see homeowners buy the most expensive material on the market, only to have it installed over an uneven or damaged subfloor.
If your current floor “squeaks,” feels hollow, or has “dips,” the problem is underneath. At Ortiz Flooring, we specialize in repairing and leveling subfloors. A flat, solid base is what guarantees your floor will last for decades instead of failing in a few years.
3. Hardwood: Solid vs. Engineered?
Everyone loves the timeless appeal of authentic wood. However, for the North Carolina climate, Engineered Hardwood is often the smarter choice.
Unlike solid wood, engineered planks are constructed in layers that resist the “breathing” caused by our seasonal humidity changes. You get the same luxury look and feel, but with much higher stability and less risk of cupping.
4. Preparation is 70% of the Success
A professional installation is about much more than just clicking planks together. It involves a meticulous process that most DIYers (and even some cheap contractors) skip:
- Acclimation: Letting the wood sit in your home for 48-72 hours so it adjusts to your home’s specific temperature.
- Precision Cuts: Ensuring seamless transitions around door frames, fireplaces, and baseboards.
- Protection: We treat your home with respect, covering furniture and ensuring a clean workspace from start to finish.
5. DIY or Hire a Professional?
We live in the era of YouTube tutorials, and while some small projects are great for DIY, your flooring is the surface that takes the most punishment in your home.
A single mistake in leveling or a failure to leave the correct expansion gaps can lead to thousands of dollars in wasted material. If you want a flawless finish, a manufacturer’s warranty that stays valid, and the peace of mind that comes with a job done right the first time, hiring an expert is always the best ROI.
Ready to transform your home?
Your home deserves a floor that doesn’t just look good today but stands up to kids, pets, and the North Carolina weather. At Ortiz Flooring Inc., we don’t just install planks; we build the foundation for your life’s best moments.
We serve Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Triangle area. I would be honored to visit your home, measure your space, and provide an honest recommendation based on your needs and budget.