It sounds simple enough: You just rip out the old carpet and give everything a fresh coat of paint. But hold on there! Before you get all panicking about your inner designer, there is one crucial question: Do you paint before or after installing new flooring?
Even experienced DIYers need clarification on this deceptively simple question. Never fear about it! We will help address this age-old debate today and give you enough knowledge to make an informed choice on your next renovation rodeo.
Why Flooring First Makes Perfect Sense
Installing new flooring can be messy, and even the most adept professionals may accidentally scratch a wall or baseboard. Painting after the floor is in means that any minor battle scars that might show up can easily be touched up. This saves you from having to cover painstakingly brand-new floors with drop cloths every time you hear a splatter of paint.
Consider New Flooring
Here’s another plot twist: New flooring can actually change the height of your baseboards. From deep carpet to smooth hardwood floors, as seen in some homes, the bottom part of the walls may leave an unpainted strip. If you paint first, then lay down your floor finishes, there is a possibility that parts of it will need repainting again. Now, isn’t that a DIY nightmare?
That’s not all! Matching paint colors can be like dancing with wolves. How about trying to find that perfect blue shade that goes perfectly well with that weird patterned rug left behind by the previous owner? It seems easier to choose a color of paint that complements your stunning new hardwood floors instead. Painting only after putting your flooring system in place will enable your room-wide color schemes where no section stands out.
Painting Before Flooring – A Few Exceptions
So before you completely dismiss painting before flooring, let’s discuss a few exceptions. If you are keeping your baseboards in good condition, it may be alright to do the painting first. However, this method carries the danger of unexpected damage when the floor is being laid.
The Takeaway – Plan Your Attack!
Ultimately, whether to paint before or after installing new flooring depends on your project. Consider the advantages and disadvantages, consider your flooring and baseboards, and try to minimize any rework.
A Well-Planned Renovation Is A Happy Renovation!
Hoosier Boys Painting & Drywall can help if you seek professional assistance in Northwestern Indiana. Our team has experts who deliver various interior and exterior painting services. Hence, we can guide you on the best path for your specific requirements. So, pick up those tools, choose your color wisely, and let’s change things around!
