DIY vs. Professional Flooring Installation: What’s Really Worth It for Your Bluffton Home?

Installing new floors can transform your space—but how you install them matters just as much as what you choose. If you’re debating between doing it yourself or hiring a professional, it’s worth weighing your options before diving in. At Old Town Flooring, we’ve worked with countless Bluffton homeowners who started with DIY ambitions but soon realized there’s a lot more to installation than meets the eye.

Here’s a breakdown of what to consider so you can make the best choice for your home, budget, and timeline.

The Appeal of DIY Installation

DIY flooring has its perks. If you’re handy, have the right tools, and love a weekend project, installing floors yourself can save on labor costs. Click-lock vinyl plank flooring, for example, is often marketed as DIY-friendly. It’s lightweight, easy to cut, and doesn’t require adhesives.

But here’s what DIYers often run into:

Subfloor prep surprises – An uneven or damaged subfloor can lead to creaks, gaps, or loose boards.
Incorrect measurements – A small miscalculation can throw off your entire layout and cause material shortages.
Time drain – Projects often take longer than expected—especially without prior experience.
Limited warranties – Some manufacturers only honor product warranties if the floor is professionally installed.

Unless you’re confident in your skills and have ample time, DIY can end up costing more in corrections than hiring a pro from the start.

Why Professional Installation Is Worth It

Flooring is a long-term investment, and the way it’s installed directly impacts how it performs over time. With professional installation, you benefit from:

Precision from start to finish – From moisture testing to exact cuts and tight seams, our pros ensure every detail is done right.
Efficiency – We know how to work quickly without cutting corners, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
Tools and experience – No need to rent tools or guess your way through challenges. We’ve done this hundreds of times.
Stronger product protection – Professional installs often come with both a workmanship warranty and a manufacturer-backed product warranty.
Custom solutions – Not every room is straightforward. We’re prepared to handle tricky layouts, transitions, or unique materials like hardwood and tile.

At Old Town Flooring, we work hard to make sure every floor is installed correctly the first time—so it lasts longer, looks better, and performs the way it should.

Hidden Costs to Keep in Mind

DIY may look cheaper upfront, but there are often overlooked costs:

Tool rentals or purchases
Waste from errors or miscuts
Repairs from poor subfloor prep
Lost time if the job takes longer than expected

When you add it all up, professional installation often delivers more value for your money—especially for higher-end products or larger spaces.

Why Bluffton Homeowners Trust Old Town Flooring

We’re not just here to drop off boxes and disappear. Our team brings decades of flooring expertise to every job, making sure your floors are laid with care and precision. Need help picking the right material? We’ll bring samples to your home so you can see what works best with your lighting and layout. From consultation to clean-up, we’re your partner through the entire process.

Let’s face it—floors are too important to risk cutting corners. Our reputation is built on getting it right the first time, and we take pride in helping Bluffton homeowners love the floors they live on.