How do I protect my floors during the move?

Protecting Floors During a Move: Essential Guidance

Moving day involves considerable activity, with furniture and boxes traversing pathways that are typically used for lighter foot traffic. Protecting floors is a fundamental step in preventing scuffs, scratches, dents, and dirt transfer, preserving the property's condition for both outgoing and incoming occupants. This diligence also aids in securing a full security deposit return for renters or maintaining property value for sellers.

Preparation Before Protection

• Clear the Path: Ensure all pathways and rooms where items will be moved are clear of clutter, small rugs, and any trip hazards.
• Initial Clean: A thorough sweep or vacuum of all floor surfaces before laying protection prevents trapped grit from scratching finishes.
• Assess Floor Types: Different floor materials require specific protection. Hardwood, laminate, carpet, and tiled floors each have optimal covering solutions.
• Gather Materials: Ensure all necessary protection materials, tape, and cutting tools are on hand before the move begins. This should be part of the wider moving checklist.

Recommended Floor Protection Materials

Choosing the right material ensures effective defence against damage.

• For Hardwood, Laminate, and Tiled Floors:
  • Hardboard Sheets: These provide excellent impact protection against drops and heavy furniture. They are robust and can be taped together to create a continuous, rigid surface.
  • Corrugated Plastic Sheeting: Lighter than hardboard but still offering good protection, particularly against scuffs and minor impacts. It is waterproof and reusable.
  • Self-Adhesive Film: A clear, sticky film that adheres directly to hard surfaces. It protects against dirt, scratches, and minor liquid spills. It is important to ensure the film is suitable for the specific floor type and does not leave residue.
  • Heavy-Duty Cardboard Rolls: While not as robust as hardboard, thick cardboard offers a cost-effective layer of protection against dirt and light scratches. Use multiple layers for better cushioning.
  • Moving Blankets/Furniture Pads: These thick, padded blankets can be laid down for quick, temporary protection, especially in high-traffic areas or for pivoting heavy items.
• For Carpets:
  • Self-Adhesive Carpet Protection Film: This film is specifically designed to stick to carpet, protecting it from dirt, spills, and snags. It is breathable to prevent moisture build-up and leaves no residue. Ensure it is applied smoothly to avoid trip hazards.
  • Breathable Woven Protection: Some specialised products offer a breathable, non-slip fabric layer that protects carpets without sealing in moisture.

Application Techniques

Proper application is as critical as the choice of material.

• Overlap and Tape: When using sheets or rolls, overlap edges by at least 10-15cm to prevent gaps. Secure all seams and edges with a strong, low-residue adhesive tape (e.g., masking tape or painter's tape) to prevent movement and tripping hazards. Do not use duct tape directly on floors as it can leave stubborn residue or damage finishes.
• Full Coverage: Protect entire pathways from the entrance to all rooms involved in the move. This includes hallways, staircases, and any rooms where furniture will be placed or disassembled.
• Stair Protection: Stairs are particularly vulnerable. Use hardboard on treads or dedicated stair protection sheets. Secure firmly to prevent slippage. Carpet protection film works well for carpeted stairs.
• Doorway Thresholds: These areas experience high traffic and are prone to damage. Extra layers of protection, such as a folded moving blanket or a small piece of hardboard, are advisable.

Special Considerations

• Entrance Points: The area nearest the front door or main entrance will see the most traffic. Use the most robust protection here, often a combination of hardboard or plastic sheeting, especially if the weather is wet.
• Heavy Items: When moving large or particularly heavy items, such as a piano, an American-style fridge freezer, or an oven, consider additional layers of protection or even using appliance dollies designed for sensitive floors. For instance, when transporting heavy appliances like a fridge freezer, using sliders under the feet can reduce friction and prevent gouges.
• Wet Weather: If moving in rain, ensure exterior pathways are cleared of standing water and apply extra, waterproof protection just inside the entrance. Footwear should be wiped clean or covered with shoe protectors to avoid tracking in mud or water.
• Furniture Glides/Sliders: Place furniture glides or sliders under the feet of heavy items that need to be moved across the floor rather than lifted. This reduces friction and prevents scratches.

Post-Move Inspection

Once all items are moved and protection is removed, inspect floors thoroughly for any overlooked damage. Addressing minor issues quickly can prevent them from becoming larger problems.