Installing new flooring is one of the fastest ways to refresh your home's look, feel, and value. But if you want your project to go smoothly — and avoid costly delays — proper preparation is key.
Whether you're upgrading to hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or tile, taking time to prepare your home before installation day ensures your contractor can get right to work and deliver the results you expect.
At Quoin, we've worked with Nashville's top flooring professionals and homeowners through our AI photo-to-estimate tool to make sure projects start on the right foot — literally.
Here's your step-by-step guide to preparing your Nashville home for a flawless flooring installation.
1. Clear the Space Completely
Before installation day, clear the room of:
- Furniture, décor, rugs, and personal items
- Electronics and fragile items (especially near walls)
- Curtains or wall hangings close to the floor
Tip: If your contractor is moving large furniture, confirm this service in advance — many charge extra or require it to be done before arrival.
2. Handle Old Flooring and Disposal
Decide whether you'll remove the old flooring yourself or have your installer do it.
- DIY Removal: Saves money but can expose uneven subfloors or hidden damage.
- Professional Removal: Usually adds $1–$2 per sq. ft., but ensures clean preparation and proper disposal.
If you have carpet, be ready for tack strips and staples that will need to be pulled out before new flooring goes in.
3. Check for Subfloor Issues
Your new floor is only as good as what's beneath it.
Ask your installer (or check yourself) for:
- Uneven subfloors
- Squeaks or soft spots
- Moisture or mold, especially in basements
A quick check before installation day prevents major problems later — particularly for hardwood, which is sensitive to moisture.
4. Manage Temperature and Humidity
Nashville's humid climate can affect certain flooring types, especially wood.
Hardwood and engineered wood should be acclimated for 48–72 hours inside your home before installation. Keep rooms at normal living temperature (around 65–75°F) with humidity levels between 35–55%.
This allows the boards to expand or contract naturally before being nailed or glued down — reducing the risk of future warping.
5. Plan for Access and Parking
Make it easy for installers to bring in materials and equipment.
- Clear a pathway from your driveway to the work area.
- Reserve parking close to the entry point.
- Keep pets and children away from work zones for safety.
- If you live in an apartment or gated community, check building policies for delivery or elevator access.
6. Protect Adjacent Areas
Flooring installation can create dust, adhesive fumes, and debris.
- Seal off nearby rooms with plastic sheeting or painter's tape.
- Remove or cover air vents temporarily.
- Use doormats or drop cloths to protect floors outside the workspace.
This saves time during cleanup and keeps the rest of your home spotless.
7. Communicate with Your Contractor
A good flooring installation depends on clear communication.
Confirm these details before the crew arrives:
- Start and finish times
- Material type and layout pattern
- Who's handling cleanup and disposal
- Payment schedule and final walk-through plan
If you're working with a contractor from the Quoin Founders Circle, you'll get status updates and pricing transparency from the very beginning — no surprises, no guesswork.
8. Use Quoin's Photo-to-Estimate Tool Before You Begin
Not sure what your flooring project will cost?
Quoin's AI-powered tool lets you:
- Upload photos of your rooms
- Instantly compare flooring options
- Receive a quick, accurate price range
- Connect directly with vetted Nashville contractors
Save time, avoid inflated quotes, and start your project with confidence.
👉 Try it here: withquoin.com/coming-soon
9. After Installation: Let It Settle
Once your new floors are installed:
- Avoid heavy foot traffic for 24 hours (or as recommended).
- Wait 48–72 hours before placing furniture or rugs.
- Keep humidity stable to allow adhesives and finishes to cure properly.
A little patience ensures your new floors look and perform their best for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for flooring installation might seem like extra work, but it's the difference between a stressful project and a smooth one.
By clearing the space, checking your subfloors, managing humidity, and communicating with your contractor, you'll save time, money, and headaches.
With tools like Quoin's photo-to-estimate platform, Nashville homeowners can now plan every detail — from cost to contractor — before installation even begins.
Ready to start your flooring upgrade the smart way?
Visit withquoin.com/coming-soon to see your flooring estimate instantly.