How do I protect my floors and furniture during a renovation?

Protecting your floors and furniture during renovation is essential and should be planned before work begins. Professional contractors typically include basic protection in their quotes, but as a homeowner, you'll want to ensure comprehensive coverage to avoid costly damage.

Floor Protection Strategies

The type of protection depends on your flooring material and the renovation scope. For hardwood floors, use rosin paper or heavy-duty cardboard as a base layer, then cover with 6-mil plastic sheeting taped at the seams. This prevents moisture damage while allowing the wood to breathe. For tile or laminate, corrugated plastic floor protection or heavy-duty construction paper works well. Avoid using plastic directly on hardwood as it can trap moisture and cause warping.

For high-traffic areas or heavy demolition work, consider temporary plywood subflooring over your protection layers. This distributes weight and prevents punctures from dropped tools or materials. In Vancouver's wet climate, pay special attention to entryways where workers track in moisture - use absorbent mats that can be changed regularly.

Furniture and Belongings Protection

Remove all furniture from the work area if possible. For items that must stay, move them to the center of the room and cover with heavy-duty plastic sheeting or canvas drop cloths. Plastic is better for dust protection, while canvas breathes and won't trap condensation. For valuable pieces, consider professional storage during major renovations - many Vancouver storage facilities offer short-term rates for renovation projects.

HVAC and Dust Control

Seal off work areas with plastic sheeting and painter's tape to prevent dust migration. Cover air vents and returns in the work zone, and consider renting air scrubbers for dusty work like drywall sanding. Change your furnace filter frequently during renovation - the increased dust load can clog filters quickly and damage your HVAC system.

Professional vs. DIY Protection

Most licensed contractors in Metro Vancouver include basic floor protection in their pricing, but verify what's covered in your contract. Professional-grade protection typically costs $1-3 per square foot and includes proper materials and installation. DIY protection materials cost $0.25-0.75 per square foot but require your time and expertise to install properly.