Installing New Hardwood Flooring

You’re Installing new hardwood flooring – so you need to rip out all of your existing first floor flooring… Now What?

What to expect when you’re expecting new floors.

Whether you’re saying goodbye to scratched-up hardwood, mystery-stained carpet, or tile that’s seen better decades, replacing all the flooring on your first floor is a big move—and a bold one. It’s a chance to totally change the way your home looks and feels underfoot. But let’s be honest: it’s also a bit of an adventure.

Here’s what you need to know to survive (and even enjoy) the process.

1. You’re About to Lose a Floor—and Gain a Construction Zone

Before the new floors can go in, the old ones have to come out. That means demo day(s)—complete with noise, dust, and the occasional crowbar cameo. It’s a messy but necessary part of the transformation. If you’ve ever wanted to see what your house looks like mid-renovation documentary… this is your moment.

How to prepare:
Clear the furniture, artwork, and anything remotely fragile or sentimental. Bonus points if you take “before” photos to remind yourself that yes, it was worth it in the end.

2. Where Will You Put… Everything?

With your entire first floor out of commission, you’ll need a plan for where your stuff—and your family—will go. Some people opt for temporary storage or rearrange rooms upstairs. Others embrace chaos and eat dinner on folding chairs in the hallway.

Pro tip:
Talk to your contractor early about moving furniture (some crews offer help) and set aside a “no-flooring zone” where your family can still function.

3. Pets, Kids, and Partners: Keep Calm and Carpet On

Let’s face it—your pets and small children may not understand why their world suddenly smells like sawdust and why they’re not allowed in the living room. And if you or your partner work from home, be ready for surprise background noise during Zoom calls.

Suggestions:
Have a backup plan for pet care or daycare if needed, and lean into noise-canceling headphones and your best sense of humor.

4. Don’t Skip the Little Details

Replacing flooring might sound simple, but there are a lot of little decisions to make:

• Will the baseboards stay or go?
• Do your doors still swing freely with the new floor height?
• Where do transitions happen between rooms?
• Are you changing the floorplan slightly while you’re at it?

This is where a good remodeling partner makes all the difference. We help you think through the details before they become problems.

5. Plan for the Awkward Phase

You know the one: the subfloor is exposed, the crew is installing planks at lightning speed, and you’re wondering if you remembered to unplug the toaster. This phase is short-lived, but it’s good to know that during install days, access to the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry might be limited.

If you’re remodeling the kitchen too, you’ll want a microwave, cooler, or takeout strategy on hand.

6. Breathe In… Maybe Through Your Shirt

Depending on the materials used, there might be adhesives or finishes that give off some scent. Good ventilation helps, and modern products are typically low-VOC, but if you’re sensitive to smells (or just don’t want your house to smell like a glue stick), talk to your team ahead of time.

7. Welcome the Fresh Start

Once the last board is down and the tools are packed away, you get to enjoy the best part: a clean slate under your feet. Everything looks new, bright, and full of potential. It’s the perfect time to do a little furniture rearranging, toss that old area rug, or finally paint the baseboards you’ve been side-eyeing for years.

A Final Word
Flooring projects can feel disruptive—but the results are worth every shoe-scuffed hallway and relocated coffee maker. With the right plan and the right team, you’ll be walking on your beautiful new floors before you know it.

Thinking about a first-floor refresh? We’re always happy to talk materials, timelines, and what to expect (and how to make it all a little easier).