The flooring buyer’s map: what to do (and avoid) when renovating this fall
Fall is one of the smartest times to update your flooring. The weather is mild, installers are more available, and the holidays are right around the corner. But with so many options, and so many potential pitfalls, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
That’s why we created this flooring buying guide: a strategic, easy-to-follow map that walks you through what to do and what to avoid when renovating your floors this season.
Whether you’re upgrading a single room or the entire home, this article will help you avoid common mistakes, choose the right material, and ensure your renovation is completed on time, on budget, and stress-free.
Your fall flooring buyer’s map: the 7 key steps
Step 1: define the why, not just the what
Before choosing material or color, ask:
Why are you replacing your floors now?
- Is it for improved durability (kids, pets, high traffic)?
- For resale or home value?
- To prepare for holiday guests?
- To modernize the style?
This clarity will shape your choices, budget, and priorities, especially when it’s time to choose between similar materials like tile vs. LVP.
Pro tip: at MAR Flooring, our consultations always start with these questions, so we help you get what you truly need, not just what looks good.
Step 2: understand the room’s demands
Every room has different needs. Use this as your baseline:
| Room | Must-Have Traits |
| Entryway | Waterproof, scratch-resistant, low-slip |
| Living Room | Comfortable, stylish, pet/kid-friendly |
| Kitchen | Spill-resistant, easy to clean |
| Bathroom | Fully waterproof, tile or sealed surfaces |
| Bedroom | Warm, quiet, comfortable |
| Basement | Moisture-resistant, insulated |
This step narrows your options quickly and eliminates poor-fit materials early on.
Step 3: know your material options and their true costs
Many homeowners focus only on price per square foot, but that’s only part of the equation. Include:
- Underlayment or padding.
- Removal and disposal of old flooring.
- Subfloor prep (leveling, moisture barriers).
- Transition strips, moldings, thresholds.
- Labor and delivery.
- Furniture moving and cleanup.
Here’s how common materials compare:
| Material | Installed Cost Range (avg.) | Strengths | Best For |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank | $3–$7 / sq. ft. | Waterproof, easy to clean, versatile | Whole home, pets, busy families |
| Engineered Hardwood | $6–$12 / sq. ft. | Real wood, better stability | Living areas, upscale remodels |
| Laminate | $2–$5 / sq. ft. | Affordable, scratch-resistant | Bedrooms, light traffic areas |
| Tile (Porcelain) | $5–$10 / sq. ft. | Durable, waterproof, low maintenance | Bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms |
Step 4: avoid these common fall flooring mistakes
Many renovations derail due to avoidable oversights. Here are the most common errors we see:
Waiting too long to schedule
Fall is high season for flooring updates. Delays in booking can push your install into the holidays or winter.
Underestimating lead times
Some materials take 2–4 weeks to arrive, especially engineered wood or custom tile.
Overlooking subfloor issues
Skipping subfloor prep leads to creaks, gaps, or product damage. Always confirm the condition during the estimate.
Choosing based on looks alone
Visuals matter, but lifestyle match is more important. A soft pine floor looks great, until your dog runs across it.
Not asking for a written quote
Verbal estimates can lead to surprises. Ask for a full itemized quote including labor, materials, and prep work.
Step 5: schedule smart, not last minute
If you want new floors installed before Thanksgiving or Christmas, the time to act is now.
Why schedule in early fall?
- Cooler temps = better acclimation for flooring.
- Humidity is stable = fewer installation risks.
- You beat the holiday rush.
- You have time to move furniture and decorate stress-free.
MAR Flooring offers fast scheduling with in-stock LVP, laminate, tile, and engineered hardwood, so your timeline stays on track.
Step 6: prep your home for installation
Once your install is booked, here’s how to prepare:
- Move breakables and smaller items from rooms.
- Unplug electronics and remove cords.
- Make space near doorways for material delivery.
- Confirm if furniture moving is included (MAR Flooring offers this service!).
- Plan alternative routes or entrances during install days.
A smooth prep means fewer delays and protects your belongings.
Step 7: final walkthrough and warranty details
After installation, walk the space with your installer. Check for:
- Seam alignment and spacing.
- Baseboard and transition quality.
- Flooring finish consistency.
- Debris or adhesive residue.
Ask for your warranty in writing and keep all documentation. MAR Flooring includes a 1-year service warranty with every project, for total peace of mind.
Bonus tip: ask these 5 questions before hiring a flooring contractor
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you offer written quotes and warranties?
- What brands and products do you recommend for my lifestyle?
- How soon can you start, and how long will the project take?
- Can you show samples in my home with my lighting and layout?
At MAR Flooring, the answer to all five is YES.
Why fall renovation starts with MAR Flooring
We’ve helped families across Missouri and Illinois make flooring decisions that work long after the season changes. Whether you’re installing LVP throughout your home or choosing tile for just the entry, we deliver:
- In-home consultations and product matching.
- Honest, transparent pricing (no last-minute surprises).
- In-stock materials for fast turnaround.
- Clean, respectful installers.
- Best price guarantee and 1-year service warranty.
We don’t just install floors. We help you make smart decisions.
Ready to navigate your flooring renovation with confidence?
Let MAR Flooring be your trusted partner from product selection to final walk-through.