The Hidden Dangers of DIY Flooring

The rise of home improvement television has made flooring look like a simple weekend project. While “clicking” planks together seems easy on camera, the reality of a professional-grade installation is far more complex. In fact, many “DIY” floors end up costing double in the long run due to early failure and voided warranties.

The Subfloor: The Foundation of Success

The most common mistake DIYers make is ignoring the subfloor. If your subfloor isn’t perfectly level (within 3/16″ over a 10-foot radius), your new floor will eventually fail. You’ll hear “clicks” and “pops” when you walk, and over time, the locking mechanisms will snap. Our A&S pros spend hours grinding down high spots and filling low spots—laborious work that DIYers often skip, leading to a floor that feels “bouncy” or hollow.

The Warranty Trap

Did you know that most major flooring manufacturers (including Shaw) have strict installation requirements to keep the warranty valid? If you install the floor yourself and a moisture issue arises, the manufacturer may deny your claim if they find the “expansion gaps” were too small or the moisture barrier was taped incorrectly. When A&S installs your floor, your warranty is backed by professional documentation and industry-standard practices.

Precision Matters

Cutting around stone fireplaces, transitioning between different floor heights, and managing the “stagger” of the planks requires a level of precision that comes with years of experience. A “hacked” cut around a door frame is an eyesore you’ll have to look at every day.

The A&S Edge: Quality Service Guaranteed

At A&S Carpet Collection, our installation experts are trusted members of our team. We take pride in our workmanship because we know that a professional install is the only way to ensure your floor lasts as long as the manufacturer promises. Why spend your entire weekend struggling with a miter saw and knee pads when you can have a “Quality Service Guaranteed” result from the pros?