Floor Preparation: Why It Matters Before New Flooring Installation

In some cases, yes, you can, but it depends on your current flooring and the condition of your subfloor. Ideally, existing flooring should be removed before your new flooring is installed to ensure a smooth, even and durable base.

Certain hard flooring options, such as hybrid or laminate flooring, can sometimes be installed directly over existing ceramic tiles. However, even in these cases, preparation work is usually required to level and smooth the surface. At Flooring Xtra we can inspect your floors and advise on the best approach for your home.

While DIY projects can be rewarding, floor preparation and floor installation process is best left to professionals. Preparing a subfloor correctly requires the right tools, materials and expertise,  and small mistakes can lead to big problems later.

At Flooring Xtra, our trained installers handle the preparation process from start to finish, ensuring your new flooring is laid on a perfect foundation. Best of all, this service is covered under our Lifetime Installation Warranty, giving you complete confidence in the finished result. Why not sit back, relax and let your local team create your dream home!

You can remove your existing flooring yourself to save a small amount on installation costs, but most homeowners prefer to leave this step to the professionals. Flooring Xtra’s expert installers can remove and dispose of your old flooring efficiently, saving you time, effort and the hassle of clean-up.

In most cases, the convenience and peace of mind provided by our team far outweigh the small additional cost. Remember, the professional team will have all the tools, equipment and knowledge to ensure this runs as smoothly as possible.

An uneven subfloor can be the cause of all sorts of issues, from visible imperfections to movement underfoot and highlights the importance of floor preparation. Before your new flooring is installed, Flooring Xtra will assess your existing floor and discuss any preparation needed to bring it up to standard. Depending on the situation, this may include levelling compounds, patching or sanding.

Each home and subfloor is unique and presents different considerations. It may also impact the style of flooring you choose. It’s best to consult the experts here, as they have seen it all and will know exactly how to respond. Remember, your new floor will only ever look as good as the surface it’s installed over, so expert preparation and installation is key.

If dampness or mould is found under your existing flooring, Flooring Xtra will assess the issue and explain your repair options. Sometimes moisture can indicate a deeper structural or plumbing concern that may need a specialist’s attention before installation continues.

Because mould can be harmful to your health, it’s important to address it properly and floor preparation requirements might be different. We’ll ensure the area is completely dry and treated before your new flooring is installed, so your home stays healthy and your floors last for years to come.

A quality carpet underlay does much more than add softness underfoot; it enhances comfort, performance and durability. The extra cushioning makes every step feel luxurious, while also helping protect the carpet pile to keep it looking fresh and upright for longer. Underlay improves insulation by retaining warmth, creating a cosy and energy-efficient home environment. It also provides excellent acoustic benefits, reducing noise transfer between rooms and levels, perfect for busy households or high-density living. Investing in a good underlay ensures your carpet not only feels better but lasts longer, too.

Dunlop EnviroTred is an excellent underlay option. Dunlop is serious about its impact on the environment and reducing landfill. The product itself is created from 90% recycled content and is 100% recyclable. They also strongly encourage the careful removal and disposal of the product, not wanting to add to the growing concern of landfill. Flooring Xtra and Dunlop support Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week, with $1 from every roll donated to the organisation.

From removing old flooring to levelling your subfloor and managing moisture issues, Flooring Xtra takes care of every stage of floor preparation. With our professional installation service and Lifetime Installation Warranty, you can relax knowing your new flooring will look beautiful, perform perfectly and stand the test of time.

Flooring Xtra provides professional floor preparation and installation services across Australia. Get expert help from your local Flooring Xtra store. We’ll assess your subfloor, handle the preparation, and ensure your new flooring is installed perfectly.

What flooring is good for coastal homes?

There are many great solutions for homes by the beach. It’s important to consider how much maintenance you would like to upkeep and the resilience of the flooring that will withstand the extra elements that coastal living incurs (we’re looking at you, sand!). Easy-to-maintain flooring also includes laminates and vinyls as well as easy-to clean-carpets. You can read more about this on our blog.

How often should you vacuum carpet?

Vacuuming frequently will help reduce wear and tear on your carpet by removing dirt and grit from fibres. Vacuum frequently, weekly if possible and book in a yearly professional clean too.

What is Triexta carpet?

A Triexta carpet is stain resistant and durable, is great for those on a budget, and is fantastic in family homes and high traffic areas. Triexta is has a similar composition to polyester and is also environmentally friendly, partly derived from corn sugar.