With more and more people choosing to spend their money on renovations as opposed to vacations, the number of DIY projects has sky rocketed. The increase in renovations comes with some issues though. Over the last four to five years we have seen a steady decrease in the number of new tradespeople. This means that while there are lots of jobs, there are very few people to work these projects.

The trades are begging for workers and the companies that have workers, are scheduled out anywhere from three to twelve months in advance. So doing a project yourself may be the best option if you aren’t willing to wait. We love to assist homeowners with their projects because we know how intimidating they can seem, and we too are fans of DIY projects.

So here are some of the products that we carry, that are DIY friendly.

Beginner

The products listed below are simple to install, require very little prep, and no special tools.

Click vinyl plank or tile

Vinyl plank or tile is a great place to start off. The majority of our vinyl plank uses a locking or click system. Simply put, you place the tongue into the groove of the next piece and fold it down. sometimes a bit of tapping is required to make sure that the joints are tight.

Vinyl plank is a great product because it has underlay attached already, and can be installed over most hard surfaces, so there isn’t a need for taking up existing flooring.

We have over 13 different vinyl plank and tile lines here in our showroom, so you should be able to find something that fits your style, and budget.

Armstrong Fastak

Fastak is a vinyl product, and can be loose layed (no adhesive needed). It is very similar to a click plank except instead of a tongue and groove locking system, there is an adhesive strip on two sides of the tile or plank. the next tile secures itself to the adhesive strip and voila! waterproof and simple to install.

Sheet vinyl

Sheet vinyl is a great option for someone looking for a quick project. It is as easy as cleaning your subfloor, rolling it out, and trimming it around the edges. Having a bare subfloor, and a steady hand is required for this product, but other than that, installing is a cinch.

Intermediate

These products are a little bit more advanced than the last list for one reason or another, but are still very achievable.

Vinyl Tile

Vinyl tile is different from the click plank that sometimes comes in a tile style, because these tiles glue down to your subfloor. There is some prep wok that goes into installing vinyl tile, making sure that your subfloor is level and smooth. You’ll also need a trowel to spread glue, which not everyone has just kicking around the house, and a float for applying grout.

Vinyl tile is great because of how closely it mimics ceramic or porcelain tiles in both look and feel. It’s also extremely durable, and 100% waterproof.

Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are very similar to vinyl tiles with the subfloor prep required. Youll also need a trowel for spreading glue. most carpet tiles have a rubber backing and come in squares or rectangles. They are fairly simple to put down as long as your have your lines straight.

Laminate

Often times laminate flooring has a similar locking system to a click plank, but differs in flexibility. A board of laminate is not nearly as flexible as a vinyl plank, making them more difficult to lock into the next board, no to mention you’d have top have a more level subfloor. But laminate has been loved for years for its durability and warmth. We also carry 100% waterproof laminate, which has been virtually unheard of utill recently.

One deterrent to homeowners, is that in order to cut laminate you’ll need either a laminate chopper, or a saw. Not everyone has access to those so they lean towards a vinyl plank that you’ll only need a utility knife to cut.

Expert

This last one could be a challenge but once you’ve got the hang of it, you’re set to go.

Ceramic Tiles

Whether it’s a backsplash or a full shower, ceramic tiles are a sleek way to upgrade your space. That said, ceramic tile can be a bit of a pain. You have to keep an eye on your lines, your level and your spacing. If you can take your time and respect the process, ceramic should work out just fine.

Trowels, grout floats, spacers, and a saw that will cut tile are must haves for this type of project. plus grout and any trims for the edges of your tiles. It’s all of these extras, and the time requirement that make ceramic tile an expert level project.

Whether you are new to home improvements, or a veteran DIY’er, I hope that this guide will help you decide on your next project.

Written by: Mya Stolte