Preparation is the key to shopping for new flooring. It can be a confusing and sometimes frustrating task if you are unprepared. Take time to go over some essential points in order to make this an effective and enjoyable process. Your Abbey team wants to make shopping for your floor the most pleasant part of decorating your home.

Getting Started

Now that you’ve decided it’s time to replace the floors in your home, there are a few things you want to consider.

• Draw a rough outline of the rooms you want to install flooring in and how these rooms flow together. Be sure to include closets, fixed cabinet features, fireplaces, and doorways.
• Have an idea of approximately how much flooring you’ll require for each room, hallway, staircase, etc. Take a measuring tape and get a rough idea. Flooring is typically sold by the square foot or by the square yard.
• Have you considered the flooring in your halls? Stairways? How does your home flow?
• Have a checklist of the approximate dimensions.
• Consider the light that enters the room. Is it natural light (sunlight) or does it require artificial light throughout the day. This can make a difference in the floor you’ll want to select.
• What is under your existing flooring? This is important information to know when you select your new floor. Try to find this out before you begin shopping for your new floor covering.

Evaluate Your Flooring Needs

Now it’s time to decide what type of flooring fits your lifestyle. Your requirements are unique and solely based on your personal situation. Some things to consider are:

• What is the room(s) used for?
• Do you have children or pets?
• Is there excessive traffic or very little?
• Is there an abundance of sunlight entering the room?
• Do you need to change out the existing baseboard and moldings?
• What is the timeline for choosing your floor and getting it installed?
• Is your climate especially moist or humid? Flooring can be greatly affected by these variables.
• Will the room where your new flooring is installed require painting? If so, try and paint before the flooring is installed.

It’s Time to go to an Abbey Showroom

You have figured out some of the essential aspects of choosing the right floor for your home. Now the fun begins. Here are some ideas you’ll want to consider when you’re ready to select your new floor from an Abbey showroom.

• Bring samples of drapery fabrics, wallpaper, and paint swatches.
• What furniture will be in the room?
• Bring fabric swatches of your furniture.
• What style of room are you trying to achieve?
• What are your favorite colors?
• For children’s rooms, are themes involved? Many floors are designed with children in mind. Kid’s rooms can have their own flair. Get them involved.
• Sound and acoustics of a room are important when choosing the right floor.

You’ve Made Your Selection, Now What?

Your Abbey expert has helped you select the perfect flooring based on your needs. Make sure you cover these areas so that you’ll be 100% satisfied.

• Will you be financing through Abbey Credit?
• What warranties or guarantees are offered with your floor?
• How should you care for your new floor?

A Few Thoughts About Installation

• What is the sub floor preparation?
• Who removes the existing flooring? What are the costs associated with its removal?
• Understand all the preparation for installing new flooring especially if it involves moving furniture and appliances.
• Be sure to understand who is responsible for removing and re-installing toilets, portable dishwashers, and sinks.
• Does the price cover all installation costs?

Your Abbey expert is prepared to assist you with all installation questions and issues.

Enjoying Your New Floor

We have described all the important steps in selecting new flooring. However, the most important step is to find an Abbey store near you and you’ll be on your way to enjoying all the comfort, style, and fashion new flooring adds to your home. For all your flooring needs, Come Home To Abbey. A leader in floor fashions since 1958.