Should I Paint or Install Flooring First?

Installing new flooring and repainting a room are tasks which are often done in conjunction with one another. Most people say it makes more sense to paint first; however, painting should typically be done last.

If you paint first, there are a couple of probable scenarios to be aware of. One likely possibility is that the flooring installer could scratch or mark the new paint and baseboard trim. Another possible occurrence would be that the new flooring could be thinner than the old, and the paint then would not be deep enough for the new flooring.

If you paint after the new flooring is put in, the most likely problem would be paint being spilled or dripped on the new floor. However, this point should not be an issue if proper set-up techniques are taken, and if the paint is applied by a professional contractor.

If you are doing the projects yourself, it may be wise to paint first if you don’t have the proper materials for floor coverage. If you are hiring professional contractors for these projects, I would suggest starting with the flooring or carpet first. 

Just be sure to consider thoroughly which contractor you choose to work with; make sure they are well-spoken of, and have a reliable, well-trained team.