DIY Flooring vs. Hiring a Professional – What You Need to Know Before You Start

So, you’re thinking about tackling a DIY flooring project—watching a few YouTube tutorials, heading to the nearest big-box store, and getting to work. Sounds simple enough, right?

Not so fast.

While DIY flooring can be rewarding and cost-effective, it’s not always the right approach—especially if you want high-quality, long-lasting results. Before you rip up that old carpet or start installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP), let’s break down what you need to consider before going DIY, and why hiring a local professional like The Floor Network might be the better (and smarter) choice.

1. Understanding Your Flooring Options

One of the biggest mistakes DIYers make? Not choosing the right flooring for their space.

Different flooring materials have different strengths, weaknesses, and installation requirements. Here’s a quick breakdown:

✔ Hardwood Flooring – Looks stunning but requires precise installation, proper acclimation, and specialized tools for cutting and finishing.

✔ Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) & Tile (LVT) – Easier to install with a floating or glue-down method, but choosing the wrong underlayment or failing to prep the subfloor can lead to warping, lifting, or a bouncy feel.

✔ Tile Flooring – Durable and water-resistant but requires exact measurements, proper mortar application, and patience—especially if you’re working with intricate patterns or small spaces.

✔ Carpet – Requires more than just rolling it out. Proper installation means measuring, cutting, stretching, and securing—and if you make a mistake, the whole thing needs to be redone.

✔ Laminate Flooring – Easier for DIYers due to click-lock installation, but if you skip essential steps like leveling the subfloor or acclimating the planks, you’ll see gaps, warping, or noisy boards over time.

What Big Box Stores Won’t Tell You

Big-box retailers want you to think flooring is a one-size-fits-all product. It’s not. They’ll sell you materials without considering your home’s moisture levels, subfloor conditions, or traffic levels—all of which can impact performance.

At The Floor Network, we don’t just sell flooring—we help you choose the right material for your space, ensuring long-term durability and value.

2. The Hidden Costs of DIY Flooring

DIY flooring may seem cheaper upfront, but hidden costs add up fast:

🛠 Tools & Equipment – You may need flooring cutters, spacers, trowels, adhesives, or underlayment—costing hundreds if you don’t already own them.

⏳ Time & Labor – Even “simple” installations like LVP can take two to three times longer for DIYers compared to a professional team.

🚨 Mistakes & Repairs – A single miscut plank or misaligned tile can ruin the entire look, leading to costly redo work or wasted materials.

💰 Warranty Issues – Many manufacturers require professional installation for warranty coverage. DIY mistakes can void your flooring warranty, leaving you with no recourse if problems arise.

3. Subfloor Preparation – The Make-or-Break Step

A common DIY flooring pitfall? Ignoring the subfloor.

Your new flooring is only as good as the surface beneath it. Issues like uneven concrete, old adhesive residue, moisture damage, or creaky floorboards can lead to buckling, cracking, or shifting over time.

At The Floor Network, we:
✔ Inspect and level subfloors for a flawless finish
✔ Identify and fix moisture issues to prevent warping
✔ Ensure proper underlayment for soundproofing and durability

Skipping this step can cost you thousands in repairs down the line—so make sure you get it right!

4. The Importance of Professional-Grade Materials

Let’s talk quality.

Big-box retailers sell mass-produced, lower-grade flooring materials to hit a price point, not a quality standard. That means:

❌ Thinner wear layers on vinyl & laminate (leading to faster wear and tear)
❌ Lower-quality adhesives that fail over time
❌ Inconsistent wood grain or tile patterns due to bulk production

At The Floor Network, we work with premium brands that offer better durability, scratch resistance, and warranty coverage—ensuring you get a floor that lasts.

5. Professional Installation vs. DIY – The Results Speak for Themselves

So, should you go DIY or hire a pro?

Here’s what you get with The Floor Network vs. DIY or Big Box Stores:

Factor	DIY & Big Box Stores	The Floor Network
Material Selection	Limited, lower-quality bulk options	Premium brands with expert guidance
Subfloor Prep	Often skipped or overlooked	Fully inspected & prepared for longevity
Installation Time	Can take days or weeks	Completed fast & efficiently
Cost & Waste	Mistakes = extra materials & $$$	Done right the first time
Warranty	Often voided due to improper install	Fully covered under manufacturer warranties
Final Look & Longevity	Risk of gaps, uneven floors, poor fit	Professional, flawless finish

The Bottom Line: Why Choose The Floor Network?

If you’re looking for a stress-free, high-quality flooring installation, The Floor Network is the way to go. Unlike big-box stores, we:

✔ Offer personalized service & expert advice
✔ Provide top-tier materials at competitive prices
✔ Ensure flawless installation backed by warranties
✔ Take care of subfloor prep, furniture moving, and disposal

Ready to upgrade your floors without the hassle and risk of DIY mistakes?

📍 Visit Our Showroom: 3091 Broadmoor SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
📞 Call Us: 616-975-6870
🕘 Showroom Hours:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 11 AM – 3 PM

Let’s get your flooring project done right—the first time! 🚀