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Now that you know the true pleasure of a squeaky-clean floor, you’re probably wondering how to keep floors clean between mop days. Here are the best tips to keep your floor looking spotless:

• Give floors a quick daily swipe with a microfiber mop.

• Keep a spray bottle of your cleaning solution on hand to use as needed.

• Sweep daily and vacuum once or twice a week.

• Clean up spills and messes as soon as they happen.

• Place a doormat at each entrance to your home to reduce mud tracking.

• Consider enforcing a “no shoes inside” policy.

• Wash your pet’s paws before letting them back inside.

You can use underfloor heating with most kinds of flooring. However, particularly thick carpet will create problems, since it will absorb a lot of the heat and make it difficult to feel. Also, there are some concerns that underfloor heating can dry out natural wood over time, so if you have wood flooring, get an expert opinion on whether radiant heating is appropriate.

While it is possible to install carpet yourself, it is a challenging DIY project that requires precise measurement, proper cutting skills, and knowledge of correct installation techniques. The process involves multiple steps, including removing old flooring, installing underlayment and tack strips, and stretching the carpet to prevent wrinkles, which can take several days to complete.

Before starting, consider these factors:

• Warranty: Many manufacturers' warranties are voided if the carpet is not installed by a professional.

• Tools: You will need to buy or rent specialized equipment like a knee kicker, carpet stretcher, and seam roller.

• Complexity: DIY installation is most suitable for simple, straightforward rooms. Projects involving stairs or floor vents are significantly more difficult.

• Cost: While you can save on labor, the cost of tools plus the risk of expensive mistakes—which may require re-installation—can make hiring a professional more cost-effective in the long run.

Given the potential for errors, voided warranties, and the need for special tools, hiring a local carpet installer is often recommended to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

No, when done correctly, removing the tile shouldn’t damage the subfloor. However, if there was pre-existing damage to the subfloor from standard use or lack of maintenance, the subfloor may need repairs. For example, if the contractors notice mold growth on the subfloor or an uneven surface, you may need more extensive services before installing new tile.

If you DIY tile removal, remove the tiles one step at a time, individually removing the tile, grout, and mortar to prevent unnecessarily damaging the subfloor. Depending on the age of your home, consider having a professional inspect the subfloor to ensure it’s in good enough condition to lay new tile.