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The Great Flooring Conundrum: How Much Extra Should You Buy?
Ever stood in a room, admiring its potential, and wondered how much extra flooring you should buy? It's a dilemma that haunts every DIYer and homeowner at some point. Should you play it safe and end up with a surplus, or risk falling short and living with the lingering fear of a bare patch?
Think of it this way: you wouldn't buy a pizza and only take a bite out of it, right? Flooring is no different. It's an investment in your home's comfort and aesthetics, so ensuring you have enough is key.
But here's the million-dollar question: how much extra flooring should you actually buy?
A commonly cited rule of thumb is to add 10% to the total area you need to cover. But is that enough? After all, accidents happen, pets happen, and sometimes, you just need a little extra leeway for peace of mind.
Here's where things get interesting. Research suggests that in reality, most flooring installations end up using 15-20% more than originally estimated. Shocking, right? But consider it an insurance policy against potential mishaps.
And remember, buying a little extra isn't the end of the world. It's better to have too much than not enough. Trust me, your future self will thank you. As the great architect Frank Lloyd Wright once said, "Too much reality is simply unforgiving."
So, the next time you're faced with the flooring dilemma, remember: a little extra can go a long way. It's better to be over-prepared than under-equipped. Check out our next article where we delve deeper into the world of flooring math and provide some helpful tips and tricks to ensure you get the perfect amount for your project.
How Much Extra Flooring to Buy? A Comprehensive Guide
Ever embarked on a home improvement project only to discover you're falling short of the desired coverage? It's a common dilemma when dealing with flooring installations - how much extra do you really need?
Understanding Finishing Square Footage
Knowing how much extra flooring to buy involves understanding the concept of "finishing square footage." This refers to the total square footage of the area you're covering, including any potential for expansion or cutting around obstacles.
Calculating Your Needs
Here's a rough guide to extra flooring you might need:
1. Standard Rooms:
- Add 5% for expansion and cutting losses.
2. Large or Complex Rooms:
- Add 10-15% for expansion, cutting, and awkward shapes.
3. Tile or Stone Flooring:
- Add 10-15% for potential breakage and larger cuts.
Factors to Consider
Before finalizing your order, consider:
- Room configuration: Awkward corners, doorways, and transitions require more material.
- Material type: Different materials have different waste percentages.
- Cutting techniques: Skillful cutting can minimize excess material.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating coverage: Always overestimate to avoid potential shortfalls.
- Forgetting transitions: Budget for transition strips between different flooring types.
- Neglecting wastage: Consider natural variations in material, like tile patterns or wood grain.
FAQs
1. How much extra flooring do I need for transitions?
A general rule is to add 2-3 feet per linear foot of baseboards or transitions.
2. Is it better to over-order or under-order?
It's always better to over-order and have extra than risk running out.
3. What is a typical waste percentage for luxury vinyl flooring?
Luxury vinyl flooring typically experiences a waste of 5-10%.
Conclusion
Planning for enough extra flooring ensures a seamless and successful installation. By considering the factors mentioned above and asking your flooring supplier for guidance, you can ensure you have the perfect amount of material for your project.