Are you a homeowner looking to replace or install new flooring and curious about the costs of taking on a DIY flooring project? Or maybe you’re planning for the future and want to get a better idea of what’s involved in managing flooring maintenance. Below, we outline a step-by-step guide filled with helpful tips for DIY flooring projects, from choosing flooring materials to calculating square footage and handling high-traffic areas.
When choosing flooring materials, consider the needs of residents, pets, and visitors. Flooring choice is essential, especially in high-traffic areas, where durability matters. Think about movement patterns of mobility devices, unusually shaped furniture, and appliances, as well as ease of cleaning.
The best rooms for budget-friendly flooring are kids’ bedrooms, practical family spaces, and other less visible areas like closets, home offices, and laundry areas. Low-cost flooring in high-traffic areas and entertainment spaces such as the kitchen and living room will not save you money in the long run, as it will not last and will need to be replaced sooner than later.
First, figure out how much flooring will need to be purchased to complete the project. Start by calculating square footage: measure the length and width of the area in feet. Then multiply the length by the width to get the square feet.
Next, review the flooring options. Flooring materials vary widely in cost, ranging from $4 to $20 per square foot depending on the material. Vinyl plank flooring, laminate flooring, carpet, and ceramic tiles are popular and affordable options. Looking for a bargain? Check out local outlet stores and in the clearance section of big box stores, plus flooring stores. Online liquidators and sell-direct sites can also be good sources for deals. Houston Habitat for Humanity’s Restore offers affordable flooring materials at our two locations. These home improvement stores also sell new carpet, vinyl, tile, hardwood, trim, tools, and building materials, and more at a fraction of the retail price. Discounted flooring is priced to sell so start looking early and check back often!
Then, factor in other costs associated with floor remodeling. Underlayment or padding is required no matter what kind of flooring you choose as it provides support and moisture absorption. It’s a good idea to order 10% to 15% extra material for mistakes, additional areas, and the unexpected. This extra flooring will save time and money overall. Additionally, disposal of old flooring may require renting a dumpster. Also, think about tools for your flooring project. A moisture meter, level, and flooring nails are must-haves for ensuring a smooth surface.
DIY flooring projects can save time and money, but the right tools make a big difference. Careful preparation is essential to an efficient workday. Below is a list of tools for removing and installing any type of flooring. Remember, major tools can be rented by the day.
Avoiding mistakes in your flooring project can save time, money, and frustration. Common pitfalls in DIY flooring projects include overlooking subfloor issues, improper layout, ignoring moisture levels, and rushing through the installation. A botched project can cost more time and money than it would to hire a professional. Don’t make these typical floor installation mistakes!
Subfloor issues can drastically shorten your flooring’s lifespan. Problems like moisture damage, structural weakness, or mold must be addressed before installing a new floor. For example, wood and laminate floors are particularly sensitive to moisture, which can cause warping or buckling. If you have a concrete subfloor, ensure that moisture levels are below 4% before proceeding. Skipping this step can lead to costly repairs down the road.
Though a room may seem square, this is rarely the case Start by laying out the entire floor to spot any irregularities before securing flooring materials. Beware: beginning in one corner and attaching as you go could lead to unevenness and extra steps.
Wood and laminate floors can become looser during winter and expand during summer’s humid conditions, potentially leading to cracking. Be sure to adjust for dilatations by leaving sufficient gaps for expansion and contraction around the perimeter of each room.
Letting the new flooring sit for a few days will allow for acclimatization to Houston’s environment. This will help avoid warping and breaking, plus will permit layout adjustment.
Routine maintenance helps protect your investment. Regularly clean your floors and address spills promptly to avoid moisture buildup, which can harm wood, carpet, or vinyl flooring. Each flooring material has unique maintenance needs, so research specific products for wood, laminate flooring, and other surfaces to prevent damage. Hardwood and carpet floors may also require specific tools or gliders to protect against heavy furniture and prevent damage in high-traffic areas.
Each room in your home has unique needs, making it essential to choose the right flooring for each space. In high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, consider vinyl plank flooring or ceramic tiles. These materials resist moisture and are easy to clean, making them perfect for spaces prone to spills. For living rooms or bedrooms, laminate flooring or carpet offers comfort, warmth, and ease of maintenance. A professional installer can help you assess your options and find the right flooring choice based on square footage, lifestyle, and usage.
In selecting flooring there are many types and a wide variety of costs. Consider the benefits of each type based on the specific needs of each room.
DIY flooring projects offer numerous benefits, from cost savings to creative satisfaction. To make your project easier, follow these tips:
Finalize your flooring project by replacing moldings and trim, then giving the room a final clean. By staying organized and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a beautiful and functional space.
Not every floor improvement requires a complete remodel. For a fast update, consider these options:
For those who want an aesthetic update, these DIY options are cost-effective and often don’t require a professional installer. Reach out to your community to see if similar projects have been done in their homes!
For homeowners in disaster-prone areas, flooring recovery may be necessary after floods or heavy rain. After turning off electricity, inspect your floors for signs of water damage, like discoloration in carpets or warping in wood. Removing damaged flooring materials, drying the subfloor, and checking for mold are essential steps before installing new floors. In flood-prone areas, vinyl plank flooring and ceramic tiles are resilient, moisture-resistant options.
Here’s how to spot water issues by material:
Act quickly to minimize damage, and consider moisture-resistant flooring options if your home is vulnerable to water issues. Professional installers can help assess and restore damaged floors effectively. If you need extra assistance, reach out to local non-profits who specialize in disaster recovery.
New flooring may emit chemical odors, known as off-gassing, which can impact indoor air quality. Vinyl flooring, carpet, and laminate often contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Exposure to these compounds can cause respiratory issues, especially for children and sensitive individuals.
“Nobody’s telling you what is coming from all those vapors mixing in the air,” says Jillian Pritchard Cooke, the founder of Wellness Within Your Walls, an education consultancy focused on dramatically reducing the dangers of off-gassing. “It’s up to us to understand the individual effects each chemical can have on your nervous system, your lungs, and your cellular makeup.”
To reduce off-gassing, seek out low-VOC or PVC-free materials, ventilate well, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe installation. Minimizing VOC exposure contributes to a healthier indoor environment for your family.
Houston’s hot and humid climate can impact flooring materials. Consider options that hold up well in humidity, such as ceramic or porcelain tile, vinyl plank flooring, and laminate flooring. Waterproof engineered hardwood is another excellent choice, combining the classic appeal of wood with added resilience against moisture. Carpeting may not be ideal in humid regions due to moisture retention, which can lead to mildew.
Houston Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores provide budget-friendly home improvement supplies, including carpet, vinyl, tile, and hardwood. ReStore locations offer discounted flooring materials and other essentials for DIY flooring projects. Shopping at ReStore also supports Habitat’s mission, allowing homeowners to save while contributing to their local community. Consider donating leftover materials to ReStore after completing your project to reduce waste and disposal costs.
DIY flooring projects bring both satisfaction and cost savings. With careful planning, selecting the right flooring materials, and following a step-by-step approach, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting surface. Whether you choose laminate flooring, ceramic tiles, or vinyl plank flooring, the effort you invest will enhance your home’s appearance and functionality.
Owning a home means responsibility. Homeowners must pay bills and taxes keep up with maintenance and common repairs to the structure, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and more. Being timely with repairs to the home is beneficial in many ways, such as maintaining the highest levels of security and functionality, maintaining the property’s value, and preventing minor issues from becoming major problems, like a small leak becoming a whole wall teardown.
Sometimes, homeowners cannot afford repairs, and repair assistance is needed. Below is information about grant programs, tips for upkeep, senior home repair programs and veterans home repair grants. Bookmark the page and share this blog with anyone you think could benefit!
According to Consumer Affairs, plumbing and air conditioning systems are the top two most common fixes a Texas home needs. After those are refrigerators and smoke detectors, and lastly, general electrical and water heater issues. A 2021 survey found that 77% of new homeowners will experience an “unexpected issue” that needs repair during the first year of homeownership.
Deferred maintenance, or holding off on needed repairs, often becomes more expensive in the long run once the work becomes critical and needs to be done. Research shows that delaying maintenance can potentially increase costs by as much as 600%. Increasing costs aren’t the only issue; a lack of energy efficiency and possible safety hazards can arise when waiting on repairs. If you need time to figure out how to pay for home repairs, here are tips to decrease the impact of deferred maintenance.
A good way to save money overall is by doing minor fixes yourself. The internet has free, helpful step-by-step videos and instructions by the barrelful for easier and smaller tasks such as patching wall holes and cracks, fixing leaky faucets, and changing an electrical socket. These resources are available in a wide variety of languages and skill levels.
Once you feel more confident, visit a Houston ReStore to pick up affordable tools and materials for your project at a fraction of retail prices!
Another way Houston Habitat for Humanity provides assistance is through its active home repair program which preserves existing affordable homes for low-income individuals and families in Houston, TX. This home repair program is a big part of Houston Habitat’s mission and benefits the Houston community by slowing neighborhood character change or gentrification within the city.
The Housing Construction and Inspection services, within the Housing and Community Development of Harris County, provide financial and technical assistance to make emergency repairs to the homes of very low- to moderate-income homeowners at their primary residential property. Further, the Harris County Home Repair Program provides financial assistance via a grant or deferred payment loan to qualified homeowners needing major rehabilitation and repair or replacement of water wells and septic systems. Remember to review these government home repair grants and loans carefully before applying.
In Texas, seniors (those aged 65 years and older) benefit from property tax deferral, Medicare and Social Security options, senior community services such as AAA, and the Silver Alert program. Houston Habitat for Humanity also has a Senior Repair program. This provides effective and sustainable solutions for elderly homeowners to be able to age in their own comfortable homes. Houston Habitat uses the Housing Plus model and Aging in Place strategies when working with older adult homeowners. Housing Plus includes two assessments to ensure a complete understanding of the low-income senior population in Houston and Harris County.
Houston Housing Authority also offers assistance through the Old Adult Home Modification Program (OAHMP). OAHMP focuses on low-cost, high-impact house modifications such as the installation of adaptive equipment such as a temporary ramp, risers for chairs and sofas, non-slip strips for tub/shower or stairs, raised toilet seats and tub/shower transfer benches to enable older adults to remain safely in their homes. This program primarily relies on the expertise of a licensed occupational therapist to confirm the home modifications to address the individual’s specific needs and goals, while promoting full involvement in daily activities.
Houston Habitat is a proud member of the Habitat for Humanity Repair Corps. This means we offer repairs to the homes of low-income veterans as part of our dedication to supporting and honoring the veteran community. Our organization is generously funded by The Home Depot Foundation, which enables Houston Habitat for Humanity to help veterans build strength, stability, and independence through disabled veteran home repair help with owner-occupied homes. Another veteran perk: all U.S. veterans receive 10% off at both Houston Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations with a valid ID!
The Veterans Land Board also has a Home Improvement Program, which provides loans of up to $25K for repairs on Texas primary residences: single-family dwellings, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, or four-plexes. These loans are available for veterans and military members who are over 17 years of age and a legal state resident, plus an active duty military member, a member of the Texas National Guard, a reserve component military member having completed 20 qualifying years for retirement, a veteran having served at least 90 active duty days unless discharged sooner due to a service-connected disability and not discharged dishonorably, or a surviving spouse of a Veteran listed as missing in action or whose death was service connected. Learn more on the Texas Veterans Land Board website, under ‘Loans’.
Check out our dedicated blog post about Home Repair Steps after Storm Damage. It lists information on how to assess damage, what permits are needed for reconstruction, and how to choose the best contractor for work outside of the do-it-yourself scope.
Planning and preparing for routine home repair is an important project that pays off in the long term. Before doing the repairs, check your eligibility for government-assisted programs and bookmark websites with free information on DIY home repairs. Easiest of all, follow our success stories and read more about Houston Habitat for Humanity Home Repairs to see what is best for your home and your family!
As mentioned in a previous blog post, the Houston hurricane season is underway and active until November 30th. There are many ways to be prepared for extreme weather, however, planning will never be able to prevent everything. Do you know what to do if your house is damaged by a storm? We’ve created a step-by-step breakdown of how to handle disaster repair.
Foremost, safety is a priority and prevents injury and fatigue, allowing more work and additional people to be helped. In order to safely begin home repair, confirm the building is structurally sound enough to have people inside, turn off water and electricity to affected areas, use only a flashlight in darkness, and wear protective items such as sturdy shoes, gloves, masks, and eye protection. Look out for slippery spots, broken items, and sharp edges. Also, remember to use caution and distance when moving debris.
After the storm has passed and official authorities have cleared residents to return to their homes, damage assessment begins. Start by looking for the most common types of storm damage. Keep in mind not all damage will be immediately noticeable. Be sure to document every change to your home with pictures and notes for insurance and repair purposes. Ensure your address is visible from the street for emergency vehicles.
The roof of a building is the most likely place to be battered by a storm. Common signs of roof damage are holes, leaks, dents, missing/broken shingles, and split seams. Windows and doors are a good second area to assess. Check for cracks, holes, broken panes and damaged frames. Next, investigate the appearance of exterior surfaces and appliances, such as air conditioners, for cavities, splits, dings, chips, and discoloration. Inside your home, identify signs of water damage, and any damage from water entering the home. After complete evaluation, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report property damage. File a claim, ask about an advance payment or living expenses if help is needed quickly. If the disaster has been officially declared you may be eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA via their disaster assistance website.
Community is very valuable; having connections with neighbors can mean the difference between life and death for some. Many people are without family nearby or the ability to move around well. Consider providing reasonable senior assistance when possible or contacting city services for them. Assistance to veterans after a storm is also important. Another helpful action is connecting others with storm damage repair contractors.
Temporary solutions are a productive way to minimize further damage, as well as reduce stress. If able, begin key repair steps by doing some actions yourself. Use tarps and plastic sheeting to cover leaky areas, sandbags to divert water, and boards to secure broken windows and doors. Take out wet furniture, carpeting, and other materials, then remove water with wet vacuums and pumps. Next, run fans and dehumidifiers, as drying out the air will help prevent mold.
Save time and money by shopping for DIY materials at Habitat for Humanity’s two Houston ReStore locations: South Loop at 6161 S. Loop East, Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am—5 pm, Sunday 10 am—4pm, and ReStore West 34th at 5280 West 34th Street, Monday through Thursday, 9 am—5 pm and Friday through Saturday, 9 am—6 pm. ReStore has new and gently used items needed to secure and improve your home, including power tools, lumber, windows, flooring, and appliances.
To assist with quicker storm damage repair, the City of Houston Permitting Center & the Planning and Development Department has implemented an expedited review process of specific permits, including weatherheads for restoring power, re-roofing and roof overlay, and Minor Structural, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) repairs. Also, the following work can be done without permits:
When making DIY repairs, maintain a list and save receipts (including for temporary living expenses) for your insurance agent. Don’t make permanent repairs before an adjuster sees all the damage. Further, save proof of paid deductibles. Contractors and roofers cannot offer to waive a deductible or promise a rebate for your deductible.
Be sure to take breaks, especially when the tasks or environment seem overwhelming. Walk around, get some fresh air, and focus on the improvements that are already complete. Above all else, ask for help when you need it!
Not every fix can be done in without professional help. This is when licensed and insured professionals are best. Houston Habitat provides storm damage restoration through our Disaster Home Repair program. Low-income homeowners can receive help with what is needed to make homes safe, sanitary and secure, including mold testing and remediation. Click here to find out more: Disaster Home Repair program.
Contractor Tips:
“There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure,” said Colin Powell. True words, especially when applied to advanced preparation for storm damage. Before the next weather event, do these actions:
