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How to Protect Flooring During Construction

There is a high possibility of damaging flooring when undergoing renovations or new construction. Here are some actions contractors can take to protect flooring during construction.
By Chris Jackson
June 8, 2021
Topics
Markets

Flooring is a significant part of the building as it affects the infrastructure's functionality and design. Any damages that it may have could reflect the management of the company to clients and employees. However, there is a high possibility of damaging the flooring when undergoing renovation or new construction. It is why ensuring its protection is essential, especially when doing activities that could harm the floor.

Here are some actions contractors can take to protect flooring during construction.

Assign a demolition pathway to track the mess

Before beginning the remodeling or demolition, assign a single pathway that the workers will use through the whole phase. It will help them avoid more clutters all over and track their mess underfoot, making protecting the floors with coverings easier. It is also essential to keep a garbage bin as close to the door as possible to be more convenient to use. If the team needs to place it on the street or parking lot, use wood chips to minimize the workers' dirt to the site.

Use absorbent protection against staining

Cleaning the stains off the floor, especially on carpets and vinyl, is a tough job. Most contractors tend to use red rosing paper to avoid scratches and spills on the floor, but it has some disadvantages. When exposing it to sunlight or slight moisture, it can leak out and stain hardwood floorings. Unless the workers are working on a covered dry area, make sure to use other coverings.

It can also help to add a floor covering that is absorbent, preventing chemicals and other liquids from leaking and staining the floor.

Protect the floor against scratching

It is relatively easy to scratch the floors, especially when doing renovations or construction. There could be slight scratches everywhere due to various sources, including the protection cover material the contractors will use. Avoid using regular rough cardboards that contain staples and could damage the floor finish. It is ideal to use stable materials, unlike rags, newspapers and carpets, that could move while using them.

For a flawless finish on the flooring, clean the site frequently to avoid dust particles coming from renovations. It is also best to provide proper ventilation around the area, such as fans in the window, to prevent air contaminants.

Avoid impacts that could damage the flooring

Because it is easy to drop equipment while working on renovations, there is also a high chance of damaging the flooring along the way. Ensure that the floor will still be fine despite heavy impacts from contractors dropping tools such as hammers, nail guns, screwdrivers and power tools. Use protection such as proper shock matting that could cushion any blow. Make sure they have excellent resistance and durability.

Use floor hatches to avoid damaging the entire flooring

There are times that the contractors will need to work on significant building components under or between the floors. Instead of breaking the entire bed every time they do this, make sure to install floor hatches that they can use for convenient access. However, choose those offering flush installation and will match the flooring type that they are using. Deciding for the right material and sizing of the hatch will also impact its design and functionality.

Implement a 'clean up as you go' policy

Reassure the team by removing the things that could cause unforeseen accidents. Clean up any specks of dust, debris, or clutters around the site after every phase of remodeling or demolition. Ask each staff to clean up after themselves after their labor division tasks. It can help make things easier for the cleaner and prevent possible incidents that can cause floor damages.

Make the construction flawless

Every part of the building is essential due to its functions and designs. It is why ensuring the team will not compromise the aesthetics of flooring while renovating is crucial. Avoid any incidents and damages by following the tips above.

by Chris Jackson
Chris Jackson is an experienced Business Development Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. He is currently employed by Best Access Doors, an access door supplier in the US and Canada, and has been working for the company for more than 12 years now. His area of expertise is on Negotiation, Roofers, Sales, Project Estimation, and Facility Management (FM).

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