ARMSTRONG FLOOR INSTALLATION

Some floor installation systems are more labor or material intensive than others, and will cost a bit more. Your retailer should explain the method of floor installation and whether or not you will be incurring additional cost.

The condition of the existing flooring may also mean additional expense. If the subfloor needs to be prepared with patch or leveling products, or removal of an existing floor covering is required, or your floor installation professional recommends putting down new wood underlayment, you will incur added expense. However, you will also dramatically increase the life and performance of your new flooring. As with painting and other projects, preparation of the surface is key to a successful outcome.

Be sure to discuss appliance and fixture removal and replacement arrangements with your floor installation professional. If you can remove the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, toilet and/or pedestal sink yourself, you will save some money. The installer may be able to do it, or he'll subcontract someone who can. If that's the case, you will spend a little more money, but you'll also have the peace of mind that comes with having professionals handling the labor. If you do remove and replace your own appliances and fixtures, be sure to slide them over plywood panels, so as not to damage your new flooring.

There are some incidentals involved with new flooring installation. As long as you keep these things in mind, you won't be caught off guard:

• Moldings, wall base and toe kick guards will need to be removed and then replaced after installation. You can do this yourself, or your floor installation professional can do it. It will add a bit of expense to the labor bill if your installer does it. This may be a good time to replace your molding or wall base and update it by coordinating with your new flooring. Armstrong sells self-stick vinyl wall base for residential use, and offers a complete line of moldings and transition strips for use with our laminate and hardwood flooring.

• New flooring may add some height to your existing floor. Be prepared to shave the bottoms of doors, so they'll swing freely over your new flooring. Take into consideration pocket and French doors as well. You may do these adjustments yourself or ask your floor installation professional to handle it or subcontract it out.