Published: July 01, 2023

How to Protect Floors and Carpets When Moving

Moving is an exciting yet challenging endeavor. Amidst the chaos of packing and organizing, it’s crucial to prioritize the protection of your floors and carpets. Moving heavy furniture and boxes can easily cause scratches, stains, or other damage if proper precautions aren’t taken. By following some simple steps and investing a little extra time and effort, you can safeguard your floors and carpets during the moving process. In this blog post, we’ll discuss effective strategies and useful tips to protect your flooring investment and ensure a smooth transition.

Plan and Prepare in Advance

• Start by examining the layout of your new home. Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure your furniture will fit through without causing damage.
• Create a floor plan to help movers or yourself navigate the new space efficiently, avoiding any unnecessary bumps or collisions.
• Identify high-traffic areas in both your old and new homes, and plan protective measures accordingly.

Gather Necessary Supplies

• Invest in high-quality furniture sliders or gliders, which can be placed under heavy items to reduce friction and prevent scratches.
• Purchase durable, thick plastic or heavy-duty moving blankets to wrap and protect furniture and appliances.
• Obtain a supply of furniture pads or cardboard sheets to place under furniture legs and corners.

Clear and Clean the Path

• Before moving day, clear any obstacles, such as loose rugs, small furniture, or clutter, that could lead to tripping or damage.
• Sweep and vacuum the floors to remove debris that could scratch or mark the surface during the moving process.

Protecting Hardwood or Laminate Floors

• Use cardboard or carpet scraps to create a path over hardwood or laminate flooring. Secure them with painter’s tape to prevent slipping.
• Place furniture sliders under heavy pieces, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed. Slide the items gently instead of dragging them.
• Cover exposed flooring with heavy-duty moving blankets to protect against dropped items or accidental spills.

Shielding Carpets and Rugs

• Roll up and secure any carpets or rugs before moving heavy furniture across them. This prevents tears, stretching, or staining.
• Use plastic sheeting or carpet protector film to cover high-traffic areas and hallways. Secure the edges with tape to avoid shifting.
• Lay down furniture pads or cardboard sheets under the legs of heavy furniture, preventing them from crushing the carpet fibers.

Take Extra Precautions

• For extremely fragile or valuable floors, such as marble or polished concrete, consult professionals for expert advice on protection techniques.
• Consider hiring professional movers experienced in handling delicate items and protecting floors.
• If moving in unfavorable weather conditions, use plastic sheeting or large drop cloths at entryways to prevent mud, snow, or water from being tracked inside.

Protecting your floors and carpets during a move requires planning, preparation, and attention to detail. By implementing the strategies mentioned above, you can minimize the risk of damage and preserve the integrity of your flooring investment. Remember to prioritize safety by keeping walkways clear and using proper lifting techniques. While moving can be hectic, taking these extra precautions will help ensure a smooth and damage-free transition to your new home. For more information, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Cincinnati.