How to protect your floors during a home renovation in New Hampshire: A comprehensive guide for homeowners
When you’re getting ready for a home renovation, one of the biggest concerns is keeping your floors safe. You’ve likely invested time and money into choosing the perfect flooring for your home. The last thing you want is for those floors to get scratched, dented, or damaged during your remodel. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or tackling a full-home renovation, it’s crucial to make sure your floors are properly protected.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about floor protection during a renovation. We’ll answer all the common questions, help you choose the right materials, and make sure your floors come out of the project just as beautiful as before! If you’re planning a home renovation in New Hampshire, this article is a must-read!
What types of floor protection materials should be used for hardwood, vinyl, laminate, tile, and carpet?
Each type of flooring has unique characteristics, which means they need different approaches to protection. Let’s take a look at each of these floor types:
Hardwood, vinyl, and laminate floors
Hardwood, vinyl, and laminate share similar vulnerabilities. While they are both beautiful and durable, they are more prone to scratching than other types of flooring (like tile).
The best option for these floors, in our experience, is a two-layer floor protection system. Start with canvas drop cloths laid directly on the floor. They’re gentle on the surface and will protect the floor from dust or debris, which can scratch the finish. Then, add a layer of hardboard panels (Masonite) on top. This combination offers excellent impact resistance (thanks to the hardboard) while being gentle on the floors underneath (a feature of the drop cloths).
Avoid using rosin paper, as it’s not durable enough for the heavy work a renovation entails. Although Ram Board, or other fiberboard floor protection products, are a commonly suggested option, we’ve found that dirt and dust can sometimes slip underneath, and the movement of the board against this dirt can damage the finish on your floors. So, we don’t recommend using these types of products on hardwood, laminate, or vinyl floors.
Tile floors
Tile floors are more scratch-resistant than hardwood, so you have a little more flexibility. Ram Board is a great option for tile because it’s durable and protective without the same risk of scratching. If you want to add extra protection (and why not?), you can lay Masonite boards over the Ram Board to increase the impact resistance of the system and protect against heavy impacts or dropped tools.
Carpet floors
Carpets are tricky because they can absorb dirt and debris, and they’re harder to clean. The best option for protecting carpet is adhesive-backed plastic film. This film sticks to the carpet and prevents dirt, dust, or spills from settling in. For high-traffic areas, you will also want to place cardboard runners or hardboard panels on top of the plastic film to offer more durable protection.
How do I ensure my floors are fully protected during the demolition phase of a remodel?
Demolition can be a messy, chaotic process with lots of heavy-duty activity. To ensure your floors stay safe, start by covering all floors in and around the demo zone. For hardwood, vinyl, or laminate floors, the two-layer system we mentioned earlier (canvas drop cloths with Masonite boards) is ideal. For tile, Ram Board with Masonite on top works great.
Make sure to tape down the edges of your protection to prevent shifting and to avoid any gaps where dust or debris could slip in. It’s also smart to create dust barriers—plastic sheets that separate the demolition zone from the rest of your home, keeping dust contained.
Will the contractor handle floor protection, or should I arrange it myself?
Most professional contractors, especially those with experience in high-end home renovations in the New Hampshire seacoast, will include floor protection as part of their service. However, you’ll want to discuss this upfront to avoid any misunderstandings.
Ask your contractor how they plan to protect your floors and what materials they’ll be using. You can even request specific materials, like the two-layer system, if you’re concerned about your floors.
If the contractor doesn’t include floor protection in their services, you may need to arrange it yourself or hire a specialist.
Are there specific areas of my home where floor protection is more critical?
Absolutely! Certain areas are more prone to damage during a remodel, and focusing on these will give you peace of mind:
Entryways: These spots see the most foot traffic as workers go in and out.
Hallways: Workers will often carry tools or materials through these connecting spaces.
Rooms adjacent to the worksite: Even if you’re only remodeling part of your home, dust and debris can travel to nearby rooms, so you’ll want to protect floors in these areas, too.
By prioritizing these vulnerable spaces, you can avoid the headache of costly floor repairs after the renovation.
What’s the best way to protect the flooring in high-traffic areas during a remodel?
For high-traffic areas, you’ll need heavy-duty materials that can stand up to constant foot traffic, tool movement, and the general chaos of construction. Ram Board or Masonite boards (over canvas drop cloths) are excellent choices for these areas. They can handle the pressure from workers walking in and out all day and protect against the impact of tools or heavy equipment.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to create designated paths that workers should stick to, keeping the rest of the home off-limits. This minimizes the areas you need to protect and reduces the risk of accidental damage.
Can dust and debris from a renovation damage my floors even with protection?
Unfortunately, yes, dust and debris can still pose a risk even with floor protection in place. Dust can sometimes slip under loose or shifting floor coverings and cause scratches, especially on hardwood, vinyl, or laminate floors. To avoid this, use secure, taped-down coverings, and make sure your contractor cleans the work area regularly.
Consider using zippered plastic barriers (Zip walls) around the work zone to contain dust and debris. This added layer of protection will keep your floors cleaner and reduce the amount of dust that can sneak under the floor coverings.
How often should floor protection be inspected or adjusted during the remodeling process?
Floor protection should be inspected daily. Home renovations can get messy quickly, and protective materials can shift, tear, or wear down over time. Make sure to regularly check that all coverings are secure, especially in high-traffic areas or spots where heavy equipment is being used. If any damage occurs to the floor protection, ask your contractor to replace or repair it immediately.
Are there temporary flooring options that might be better for protecting my floors during a renovation?
Temporary flooring solutions like interlocking foam tiles or rubber mats can be a good option if you’re looking for a simple, reusable solution. These materials can absorb the impact of dropped tools or furniture and provide a cushioned surface for workers. However, for most renovations, we would still recommend the two-layer system (canvas drop cloths and hardboard panels) for more comprehensive protection, especially if your existing floors are hardwood, vinyl, or laminate.
How can I prevent damage to my floors when moving heavy furniture or appliances for the remodel?
Moving heavy furniture or appliances can be stressful on your floors. The best way to prevent damage is by using furniture sliders or moving blankets. These products allow you to slide furniture across the floor without scratching it. You can also lay down temporary protective boards, like Ram Board or Masonite, in high-risk areas to create a buffer between your floors and the heavy items being moved.
Should floor protection be used during every phase of the renovation, or only during specific tasks?
Floor protection should be used throughout the entire renovation, not just during demolition or heavy construction. Even during finishing tasks like painting or installing fixtures, there’s a risk of spills, drops, or tools being moved around. Keeping your floors covered from start to finish ensures they’re protected during all phases of the project.
What precautions can I take to protect my floors if there’s a lot of foot traffic from workers?
If there’s a lot of foot traffic, designate specific pathways that workers should use, and cover those paths with durable protective materials like canvas drop cloths, Ram Board, or Masonite. Make sure these pathways are taped down securely to prevent movement.
Another tip is to ask workers to wear protective booties or to wipe their feet before entering the home to reduce dirt and dust tracking.
Are there eco-friendly floor protection products I can use?
Yes, there are several eco-friendly options available. For example, recycled paper boards or biodegradable plastic films are sustainable choices that still offer great protection. You can also look for reusable options like canvas drop cloths, which can be cleaned and used again for future projects.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath, we love the two-part canvas drop cloth and hardboard panel system, not just for the durability it offers, but also for the reusability of this system. We use the same drop cloths and hardboard panels over and over again, saving the landfill from all that pesky plastic and/or fiberboard!
Will floor protection leave any residue or cause damage when removed after the remodel?
If you use the right materials and remove them properly, floor protection shouldn’t leave any residue or cause damage. Be cautious with adhesive-backed films, especially on hardwood, vinyl, or laminate. These can sometimes leave a sticky residue if left in place too long. To avoid this, make sure your contractor removes the protection promptly and uses materials that are compatible with your flooring.
How can I protect the edges of my flooring, especially near thresholds and doorways?
Edges near thresholds and doorways are particularly vulnerable during a remodel. To protect these areas, use edge guards or secure the floor protection firmly with tape to prevent any movement. For an extra layer of defense, consider adding foam strips along the edges to cushion them.
How much should I budget for floor protection for a home renovation?
Floor protection is a crucial part of any renovation, and it’s important to factor it into your budget. The cost can vary based on the materials you choose and the size of the area being protected. On average, you can expect to pay between $0.50 and $2.00 per square foot. Discuss this cost with your contractor to ensure it’s included in your overall project budget. If it’s not part of the contractor’s proposal, you may need to add it as a separate expense, but it’s well worth the investment to protect your floors and avoid costly repairs later on.
How long can floor protection be left in place without affecting the floor beneath it?
Floor protection can typically stay in place for the duration of your renovation project. However, it’s important to keep an eye on it, especially if the project takes several weeks or longer. Materials like canvas drop cloths and Masonite boards won’t cause harm if left in place for extended periods. But if you’re using adhesive-backed films or plastic coverings, you’ll want to remove and replace them periodically (every few weeks) to prevent any potential residue or trapping of moisture, which could damage your floors.
Can moisture build up under protective coverings and damage my floors?
Yes, moisture buildup is a potential concern, especially for hardwood or laminate floors. If moisture gets trapped under protective materials like plastic films, it can cause warping, swelling, or mold growth. That’s why we recommend using breathable materials like canvas drop cloths for hardwood and laminate. These allow air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup. If you’re worried about moisture on tile floors, Ram Board is another breathable option you might consider.
Will my contractor clean the floors after the remodel is complete, or is that my responsibility?
Most contractors include a basic cleanup as part of their post-construction services, but it’s always best to clarify this upfront. Some contractors will perform a deep cleaning that includes floors, while others may only do a surface-level cleanup, leaving you to handle any deep floor cleaning after the renovation. Ask your contractor if floor cleaning is included, or if you’ll need to arrange for a cleaning service.
What happens if my floors get damaged during the remodeling process—who is responsible?
Accidents can happen during a remodel, and if your floors are damaged, it’s important to know who’s responsible. In most cases, your contractor’s insurance should cover damage caused during the project. Make sure you discuss this in advance with your contractor and confirm that they have appropriate insurance to cover any accidental damage. Taking photos of your floors before the project begins can also help in case you need to make a claim.
How can I ensure my floors are protected if I’m remodeling multiple rooms at once?
When remodeling multiple rooms, floor protection becomes even more critical. You’ll want to treat each room as its own zone and apply the appropriate protective coverings in each area. Use canvas drop cloths and Masonite boards in rooms with hardwood, vinyl, or laminate, and Ram Board for tile floors. For carpeted areas, plastic film and cardboard runners should suffice.
Designate specific pathways for workers to move between rooms, and cover these with durable protection materials as well. This keeps foot traffic contained and reduces the risk of damage in other parts of your home.
Final thoughts
Protecting your floors during a home renovation in New Hampshire is just as important as the remodel itself. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, giving your bathroom a makeover, or renovating multiple rooms, taking the time to properly safeguard your floors will save you money and stress in the long run. From using the right protective materials for each floor type to staying vigilant during the renovation process, these steps ensure that your floors remain in perfect condition.
If you’re ready to start your renovation but want to make sure every detail is handled with care, Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling can help. We prioritize transparency, protection, and high-quality results in every project. Contact us today to learn how we can transform your home while keeping your floors safe!
