Getting new floors installed in your Vancouver, WA or Portland, OR home? Here’s how to prepare your space for a smooth, stress-free flooring installation. Ready for New Floors? Here’s How to Get Your Home Installation-Ready New flooring can completely transform your home — but preparation is key to making sure your installation goes quickly and smoothly. At Limitless Tile & Floors , we’ve completed hundreds of flooring installations in Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR, and we know how a little prep work can save you time, stress, and money. Here’s a complete homeowner’s checklist for preparing your home for a new luxury vinyl plank (LVP), laminate, hardwood, or tile installation. ✅ 1. Clear the Rooms Remove all furniture, décor, and personal items from the rooms getting new flooring. That includes: Sofas, beds, tables Wall art, lamps, plants Area rugs and floor mats 🛠️ Will the installer move furniture for you? Some companies do, others don’t— or they charge extra. At Limitless, that's definitely something we will take care of for you. But we do ask to remove all smaller/delicate items. We will take care of the bigger items. ✅ 2. Disconnect and Move Appliances If flooring is being installed in your kitchen or laundry room , you’ll need to: Unplug and move your refrigerator, oven, washer, or dryer Disconnect gas lines (for gas stoves) — use a pro if needed 👷 Pro Tip: Our team will take care of all appliances. ✅ 4. Prep the Subfloor Your subfloor might need: Cleaning Leveling Removal of old glue, staples, or nails This is something the installer will most likely have to take care of. Here at limitless we will make sure to get your subflooring up to manufacturer standards so that you will be able to enjoy a durable and long lasting floor. ✅ 5. Create a Clear Path for Installation Make sure walkways, hallways, and entryways, porch areas are clear so our team can: Carry in materials Set up tools and cutting stations Access electrical outlets if needed 🏡 Pets & kids: Keep them in a safe room during the install to avoid accidents. ✅ 6. Control the Temperature & Humidity Some materials (like hardwood) need to acclimate before installation. That means keeping the home at a stable temperature (60–80°F) and normal humidity for 48–72 hours beforehand. We’ll let you know if this is required based on your flooring type. ✅ 7. Ask About Cleanup & Leftover Materials Before install day, clarify: Will the team remove old flooring? Do they clean up and haul away scraps? Will you keep extra material for future repairs? At Limitless, we leave your home clean and leave you a few extra planks or tiles — just in case. Need Help Getting Ready? We’ve Got You Covered. Prepping your home doesn’t have to be a headache. At Limitless Tile & Floors , we walk you through the entire process — from selection to installation — and make sure everything runs smoothly from day one. 📞 Call us at (360) 787-1230 📅 Or book your free consultation today. We’ll take care of the floors — you just get ready to love your new space
If you're upgrading your floors in the Portland, OR or Vancouver, WA area, you've likely narrowed your options down to two popular choices: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Laminate. Both offer stylish looks, affordability, and easy maintenance — but which is the better fit for your home? AtLimitless Tile & Floors, we’ve installed both across the region and know firsthand how each performs in the unique climate of the Pacific Northwest. Let’s break it down. 1. Water Resistance Winner: LVP In the rainy Portland-Vancouver area, moisture is a big factor. LVP is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and even entryways where wet shoes are common. Laminate has improved in recent years and many options are now water-resistant, but most are not fully waterproof — if water seeps through seams or sits too long, it can cause swelling or warping. 2. Durability & Scratch Resistance Winner: Tie (Depends on Brand & Wear Layer) Both flooring types are durable, but: Laminate has a harder surface, which resists scratches better — ideal for homes with large dogs or heavy furniture. LVP tends to be more forgiving under pressure or impact. Its softer core absorbs more, so it's less likely to chip. For most families in the Portland/Vancouver area, either will hold up well — just make sure to choose a high-quality brand with a thick wear layer. 3. Look & Feel Winner: Tie Both offer realistic wood-look styles, but they differ in feel: Laminate often has a harder, wood-like feel underfoot and sometimes better embossing (texture). LVP tends to be softer and warmer, especially if it comes with an attached pad. Tip: Visit our showroom or request samples — you need to feel both to know which one’s right for you. 4. Installation & Cost Winner: LVP (for versatility), Laminate (for budget) LVP can be installed on nearly any surface, even over existing floors, and works well with radiant heating (common in Portland homes). Laminate is often slightly cheaper per square foot, but may require more subfloor prep. Professional installation evens the playing field, and we offer free consultations to help you compare true installed costs. 5. Resale Value & Appearance Longevity Winner: LVP More homebuyers in the Portland and Vancouver markets are looking for waterproof features and low-maintenance living. LVP edges out laminate here, especially if it’s installed in high-moisture rooms. Also the longevity of the Lvp flooring will be longer in the long run due to it being full plastic composite instead of a wood fiber composite core which is a laminate. However, modern laminate still adds plenty of value if you’re planning to sell in the near future. Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose? ✅ Choose LVP if: You want waterproof protection You have kids, pets, or high-moisture areas You’re looking for something that will age well over time Slightly longer life span ✅ Choose Laminate if: You’re on a tighter budget You want a scratch-resistant surface You love the feel of traditional hardwood underfoot Need Help Deciding? We Make It Easy. At Limitless Tile & Floors, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in the Portland–Vancouver area find the perfect flooring solution for their lifestyle and budget. We bring samples to your home, give honest advice, and make the installation process stress-free. Call us today at (360) 787-1230 Or Book your free consultation to get started!
