A common conundrum for homeowners undertaking a renovation project is whether to paint first or install the flooring. At “Weiler Painting,” we often encounter this question, and our advice is always the same: Install the flooring first. While some homeowners may fear potential paint spills on their pristine new floors, this should not be a problem when working with a professional painting company.

 

The Concerns of Homeowners

Homeowners often assume that painting should be done before installing new floors to prevent paint spills from ruining the new surface. This concern, though valid, can be easily mitigated by hiring a professional painting company well-versed in using protective masking techniques to safeguard surfaces, including newly finished floors.

 

Why Install the Flooring First?

Opting to install the flooring first comes with several advantages. Below we have outlined the key reasons:

• Dust and Debris: Removing and replacing flooring is messy. Dust, dirt, sawdust, or tile/stone dust will inevitably be generated during the process. If the walls are painted first, these particles will likely cling to the fresh paint, ruining the pristine finish.
• Potential Damage to Walls and Trim: The walls and trims may accidentally get scuffed, dinged, or nicked during flooring installation. This would necessitate touch-ups or a fresh coat of paint, which might incur additional costs if the painting contractor needs to make a return trip.
• Baseboard Considerations: If your renovation involves replacing the baseboards with the new flooring, they must be removed, replaced, and painted. If you paint the walls before installing the flooring and baseboards, a return trip for the painting crew would be necessary to paint the newly installed baseboards, leading to additional costs and inefficiencies.

 

The Efficiency of Professional Painters

A professional painting company like Weiler Painting protects surfaces during painting jobs. We implement an efficient “floating” masking system that protects without needing to tap the floor surface, which can potentially damage different sealers on stone or wood floors.

 

Conclusion: The Optimal Order

The painting is a “finish trade” and should ideally be one of the last tasks in your remodeling project. Installing the flooring first can avoid potential complications and save on costs associated with repeat visits from the painting crew. As long as you hire a professional painting company like Weiler Painting that can protect surfaces adequately, you can proceed with your remodeling project most efficiently.