Picture this: you just survived a plumbing emergency! The pipes are fixed, the floors are patched and all is well in the world, or so it seems… Most homeowners don’t realize the concrete patch the plumber left behind isn’t ready for new flooring.
At Artistic Flooring, Our Virginia Beach-based flooring contractors run into this scenario every day. It’s especially true in Virginia Beach homes built on slab foundations. Homeowners assume after the plumbing work is complete, they can install new flooring over the repaired areas. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Without the proper prep work, it can lead to uneven floors, cracks and costly repairs down the road.
Why You Can’t Install Flooring Directly Over Plumbing Repairs
When plumbers access pipes in a slab foundation, they cut through your existing flooring and the concrete beneath it. When the plumbing work is complete, the trench is filled with fresh concrete to restore the structural integrity of your floor.
The problem? Patched concrete isn’t often level with the surrounding surface. Even a difference as small as a fraction of an inch can cause problems when installing hardwood, laminate or luxury vinyl plank (LVP).
Here’s what happens when you skip proper prep work:
- Flooring planks won’t lock together correctly
- Gaps and lippage appear when boards meet
- Increased wear and potential cracking over uneven areas
- Voiding of manufacturer warranties on your new flooring
Installing flooring without proper prep work can cause issues down the line. It will also cost you more time and money than you’d like.
The Self-Leveling Solution
A self-leveling compound will solve your problems. It’s a specialized material that creates a smooth, flat surface for flooring installation. It’s essential after any plumbing repair that involves cutting into your subfloor.
In one of our recent jobs, our team measured a job on a Friday where plumbers completed repairs the day before. The home was built on a slab and we had to remove the remaining laminate before applying self-leveling compound over the concrete-filled areas. Without this step, the new flooring would have been compromised from day one.
Planning a flooring installation after plumbing work in a Virginia Beach home? The team of certified flooring installers at Artistic Flooring can assess your subfloor and make sure it’s properly prepared. We handle moisture testing, self-leveling and everything in between so your new floors last for years to come. Schedule an in-home consultation to discuss your project.
Don’t Rush the Process
We understand that you want your home to go back to normal after plumbing repairs. However, installing new flooring without a properly prepared subfloor will cost you time and frustration down the line.
Professional flooring contractors understand that the foundation of a beautiful floor begins underneath it. That’s why at Artistic Flooring, subfloor preparation is one of our specialties backed by our 30 years of experience.
Ready to Get It Done Right?
Plumbing repairs are already stressful. Add in new floors and the fear of paying more than you should only adds to the pressure. Let Artistic Flooring help. We guide you through the process with honest advice, fair pricing you can trust, and expert craftsmanship every step of the way.
Need new flooring installed after a plumbing repair? Contact us to schedule an in-home consultation!
