Getting new floors before the holidays is possible for some projects, but it depends on the material you choose, the size of the space, the condition of your subfloor, and how soon you start the process. With Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 26 and Christmas on Friday, December 25, the calendar is tightening. The most helpful step you can take right now is to request an estimate early, so you know whether your project fits before the holidays or is better planned for January.

Around this time of year, homeowners across Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina often ask the same thing: “We are hosting family. Is there still time to get new floors installed before everyone arrives?”

Wanting your home to feel fresh and welcoming for guests is completely understandable. At the same time, a good flooring installation is not an overnight purchase. It follows a sequence of steps, and each one protects the final result. Here is an honest contractor’s guide to how that timeline works, how hardwood and LVP compare when a deadline is involved, and how to prepare your home.

How a Flooring Project Unfolds, Step by Step

Yellow tape measure, carpenter pencil and level on a plywood subfloor, ready for a flooring installation

Every project is different, and the time each stage takes varies with square footage, the material, and the state of your home. What stays the same is the order. For a closer look at what happens on site, read our guide on what to expect during a flooring installation project.

  • Estimate and in-home consultation: We visit your home, measure the rooms, check transitions and stairs, and talk through how you use the space.
  • Material selection: You choose the type of floor, color, plank width, and underlayment. Choosing early can help you move through the following steps more efficiently.
  • Ordering and availability: Some materials are readily available, while others are special order. Availability varies by product and can be an important factor in your overall timeline.
  • Delivery and acclimation: Materials arrive at your home. Hardwood in particular may need time to adjust to your indoor conditions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product.
  • Subfloor check and preparation: Before new flooring goes down, we evaluate the existing surface and identify any preparation needed to meet the selected flooring system’s requirements for cleanliness, flatness, moisture, and structural condition. What we find during this step can affect the project scope, materials, or timeline.
  • Installation: Underlayment, planks, and transitions are installed, along with details such as stair treads when they are part of the project.
  • Final walkthrough: We review every trim line, joint, and transition together before calling the job complete.

Skipping or rushing any of these stages can increase the risk of avoidable issues during or after installation. That is why every residential project we manage follows The Peace of Mind Process, with clear written estimates and a structured plan from start to finish.

Hardwood or LVP When You Have a Deadline

Clean, flush doorway transition between luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and natural oak hardwood flooring under warm daylight

Both materials can look beautiful in a home full of guests. They simply ask for different amounts of planning.

LVP (luxury vinyl plank) is generally the more straightforward option to schedule. It typically does not require on-site finishing, and selected products can be practical choices for homes with holiday traffic, visiting pets, and everyday spills. If you are weighing this route, our LVP installation guide explains what to know before the crew arrives.

Hardwood usually needs more planning. Depending on the product, there may be acclimation requirements and, for some floors, finishing steps that take additional time. The reward is a floor with lasting character. If you are leaning toward natural wood, take a look at our pillar guide on why genuine hardwood flooring remains the gold standard. Keep in mind that wood also responds to seasonal changes in indoor humidity, which is why manufacturer guidance on acclimation and indoor conditions matters. We explain more in why hardwood floors gap in winter.

Neither choice is better for everyone. The right answer depends on your home, your budget, and your timeline, and we are happy to talk through it with you during your consultation.

How to Prepare Your Home

A little preparation helps your project go smoothly, whichever material you choose:

  • Decide where you will host. Think about which rooms need to be ready first and which can wait.
  • Clear the space. Plan where furniture, décor, and breakables will go during the installation.
  • Plan for pets and children. Ask us about the best way to keep them safe and comfortable while work is underway.
  • Keep a flexible mindset. Careful planning and realistic scheduling support a smoother installation process, and that matters more than any single date on the calendar.

For a broader view of timing, our article on preparing your home for the holidays explains why starting early pays off.

What If the Holidays Are Too Close?

If it turns out your project is better suited to January, that is not a setback. It can be a smart plan. You can complete the estimate and choose your materials now, so the project is ready to begin as soon as the calendar allows. You can enjoy the holidays in your current floors and begin the new year with a clear plan for a well-prepared installation.

Local Service Across the NC Triangle

We work with homeowners throughout the Triangle. If you are in the area, you can learn more about our service in Morrisville and Holly Springs, or ask us about your neighborhood during your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring Before the Holidays

Can I install new floors in December?

It can be possible, depending on the material, the size of the project, and the scheduling at the time you ask. The best way to find out is to request an estimate and talk through your timeline with us. We can help you understand what may fit and what may be better planned for January.

How long does a flooring installation take?

It varies. The timeline depends on the square footage, the material, the condition of your subfloor, and whether your project includes stairs or special transitions. During your consultation, we review your specific project so you know what to expect.

Should I wait until January?

Not necessarily. Starting the estimate and material selection now can help you make a more informed decision either way. If a pre-holiday installation fits your project, you will be ready. If not, you will be prepared to start when the calendar allows.

Ready to Plan Your New Floors?

Whether you want your project finished before the holidays or ready to begin right after them, the first step is the same: a conversation. We welcome visits by appointment at our Durham location on Wortham St, or we can start with a consultation at your home.

Request Your Flooring Estimate →