The Most Common Flooring Mistakes Homeowners Make (and How to Avoid Them)
When it comes to transforming your home, flooring is one of the most impactful investments you can make. Yet, many homeowners in Auckland and Northland fall into the same traps when choosing, installing, and maintaining their floors. At ATS Design, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid costly missteps.
Here are the most common flooring mistakes we come across, and the smarter choices that will keep your home looking beautiful for years to come.
1. Choosing Style Over Function
A sleek herringbone floor or luxury vinyl design may catch your eye, but if it doesn’t fit the room’s conditions, problems can arise. For example, engineered timber works beautifully in living areas, but high-moisture spaces like bathrooms or laundries are better suited to SPC or vinyl flooring like Karndean.
How to avoid it: Always balance style with practicality. Think about foot traffic, moisture levels, and sunlight exposure when making your choice.
2. Skipping the Underlay
Many homeowners underestimate the importance of underlay. It’s not just a layer beneath your floor—it provides insulation, reduces noise, and adds comfort underfoot. Poor or missing underlay can shorten the lifespan of even the best floors.
How to avoid it: Invest in the right underlay for your flooring type. At ATS Design, we match each installation with underlay that ensures long-lasting performance.
3. Ignoring Professional Installation
DIY flooring projects may seem like a money-saver, but one wrong move with cutting, spacing, or laying planks can lead to warping, gaps, or expensive fixes later. This is especially true with premium designs like herringbone, which require precision.
How to avoid it: Always rely on experienced professionals. Our Auckland and Northland installation teams ensure every detail is finished to perfection.
4. Overlooking Maintenance Requirements
Not all floors are created equal when it comes to upkeep. Engineered timber, for example, needs proper cleaning techniques to protect its finish, while laminate and SPC are more forgiving. Neglecting regular care can make a new floor look tired far too soon.
How to avoid it: Learn what your specific flooring type needs. We provide care advice for every project, so you know exactly how to keep your floor looking its best.
5. Forgetting About Long-Term Value
Some homeowners focus only on the upfront cost, without considering durability and resale value. While vinyl and SPC offer affordability and water resistance, premium timber options like Timbertop or herringbone elevate a home’s value and aesthetic for decades.
How to avoid it: Think beyond the initial spend. Choose flooring that complements your lifestyle today while also adding long-term value to your home.
Flooring Done Right With ATS Design
Your flooring choice can set the tone for your entire home—so don’t let avoidable mistakes get in the way. At ATS Design, we supply and install premium flooring options across Auckland and Northland, from luxurious herringbone and Timbertop timber to versatile SPC and Karndean vinyl.
With the right guidance, expert installation, and ongoing support, you’ll enjoy a floor that looks stunning and lasts for years to come.
Written by Ollie Duncan