Five Flooring Mistakes You Can’t Make in Arizona (And Why You Need Floor Coverings International Mesa)
When it comes to flooring, many homeowners in Arizona may not realize that the conditions here can be very different from what you might encounter in other regions. The dry desert climate, fluctuating humidity levels, and intense heat all have an impact on how flooring materials react and how they should be installed. At Floor Coverings International Mesa, we understand the unique challenges that come with installing flooring in the Arizona climate, and we’re here to ensure that you don’t fall victim to common mistakes that can ruin your floors. Let’s dive into the five key things you can’t do when it comes to flooring in Arizona and how we can help you avoid these pitfalls.
1. Installing Solid Hardwood Directly Over Concrete Slabs
Solid hardwood floors are a beautiful, timeless addition to any home. However, installing solid hardwood directly onto a concrete slab in Arizona is a big no-no. While it may be tempting to go for a sleek and elegant hardwood floor, the harsh Arizona climate makes this installation choice a disaster waiting to happen.
Why You Can’t Do It:
Concrete slabs in Arizona are often highly affected by the extreme temperatures and dry air. Without the proper humidity control, solid hardwood floors will shrink, crack, and warp. In fact, Arizona’s lack of humidity is one of the major contributors to solid hardwood failure. When you turn on the air conditioner in the summer, it acts as a dehumidifier and dries out the wood. Without adequate moisture, the wood becomes brittle, and over time, the finish will crack. The problem only worsens when temperatures fluctuate throughout the year.
What You Should Do:
To install hardwood floors in Arizona, ensure that you have the right environmental conditions. This means maintaining humidity levels between 40-60% in your home, which is a challenge in the dry desert air. Alternatively, engineered hardwood floors, which are more adaptable to fluctuating moisture levels, may be a better choice. Working with an expert like Floor Coverings International Mesa ensures your floors are installed correctly, preventing costly repairs down the road.
2. Failure to Install a 6-Mil Plastic Barrier for LVP and Laminate Floors
When it comes to installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or laminate flooring over concrete slabs in Arizona, one of the most crucial steps is often overlooked by inexperienced installers. Failing to install a moisture barrier is a mistake that can result in premature floor failure.
Why You Can’t Do It:
The dry conditions of Arizona can lead to moisture build-up in concrete slabs, which can cause LVP and laminate floors to buckle and peel if the proper moisture barrier is not installed. Without a 6-mil plastic moisture barrier, the hydrostatic pressure from the slab can seep up and cause your floors to warp or delaminate. This issue can arise quickly, within just a couple of years of installation, making it essential to get it right the first time.
What You Should Do:
When installing LVP or laminate floors, ensure that a 6-mil plastic moisture barrier is laid down between the slab and the flooring. This simple step can prevent moisture from damaging your new floors, ensuring long-lasting durability. At Floor Coverings International Mesa, we take the necessary precautions to protect your floors and ensure they are installed to last, no matter what Arizona throws at them.
3. Skipping the Acclimation Process for Flooring Materials
One of the most critical steps in installing flooring is acclimation—allowing the flooring material to adjust to the temperature and humidity of your home before installation. Many national retailers and big-box stores overlook this important step, opting to leave flooring materials outside or in garages. This is a mistake that can lead to major issues with your floors.
Why You Can’t Do It:
In Arizona, temperature fluctuations can be extreme, especially during the summer. If your flooring materials haven’t acclimated to the conditions in your home, they can expand or contract after installation, causing gaps, buckling, or warping. Even if the manufacturer states that no acclimation is needed, Floor Coverings International Mesa highly recommends giving your flooring two extra days to adjust to your home’s temperature and humidity before installation.
What You Should Do:
Ensure that your flooring materials, whether hardwood, laminate, or LVP, are allowed to acclimate properly. This means keeping them inside your home (preferably in the room where they will be installed) and allowing them to adjust to the environment for at least 48 hours before installation. Doing so will help prevent future problems and ensure that your floors remain stable and beautiful.
4. Ignoring the Importance of Proper Floor Preparation
Floor preparation is a step that many installers overlook, especially in older homes or those with subfloor issues. This can lead to serious problems with the installation and performance of your new flooring. Whether it’s an issue with uneven subfloors, moisture concerns, or an inadequate underlayment, skipping the proper prep work can result in costly repairs and replacements.
Why You Can’t Do It:
In Arizona, many homes—especially older homes—have subflooring issues that need to be addressed before installing new floors. For instance, modular homes or homes with older wooden subfloors often require reinforcement to ensure that the new flooring adheres properly. Failing to prep the floor correctly can lead to gaps, creaks, or even failure of the flooring material.
What You Should Do:
Proper floor preparation is essential for a long-lasting installation. At Floor Coverings International Mesa, we inspect your home’s subfloor to ensure it’s level, dry, and stable. We also check for moisture or structural issues and make the necessary adjustments before installing any new floors. This ensures a smooth, flawless finish and prevents issues like buckling, creaking, or premature wear.
5. Incorrect Flooring Installation: It’s Not Just About Laying Down Tiles
Not all flooring installers are created equal. A mistake made during the installation process can lead to serious consequences, including uneven floors, gaps, and damaged materials. While many companies or DIY enthusiasts may try to install floors themselves or with minimal expertise, this often results in costly repairs and even total floor replacements.
Why You Can’t Do It:
Incorrect installation is one of the main reasons for flooring failures in Arizona. Whether it’s improperly placed tiles, incorrect cuts, or lack of attention to expansion gaps, bad installation can compromise the integrity of your floors. At Floor Coverings International Mesa, we take a meticulous approach to installation, ensuring that every piece is placed correctly and that your floors are set to last.
What You Should Do:
Choose an experienced, professional flooring company like Floor Coverings International Mesa. We have years of experience and a deep understanding of the challenges Arizona’s climate poses to flooring materials. We’ll ensure that your floors are installed correctly, giving you peace of mind and beautiful results that last.
Why Choose Floor Coverings International Mesa?
At Floor Coverings International Mesa, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. With over 30 years of experience in the flooring industry, we understand the unique challenges that Arizona homeowners face when it comes to installing flooring. From ensuring proper humidity levels to using the right materials and preparing your floors correctly, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s why you should choose us for your next flooring project:
- Expert Installation: Our team of skilled installers ensures that your floors are installed to perfection, every time.
- High-Quality Materials: We work with the best brands and products in the industry to ensure durability and style.
- Local Expertise: We understand Arizona’s unique climate and tailor our services to meet local needs.
- Customer Satisfaction: We’re committed to providing exceptional service and making sure every client is thrilled with their new floors.
If you’re ready to upgrade your floors with the right materials and expert installation, give us a call today at 480-590-6818. Let Floor Coverings International Mesa help you create the home of your dreams with beautiful, long-lasting floors.
