Flooring Basics

Does the cost of professionally installed carpet, vinyl or hardwood have you floored? Whether you're eyeing new ceramic tile for the bathroom, a sturdy laminate for the family room, or a repair to the parquet in the foyer, do it yourself, and do it right, with this all-in-color guide to the basics. Even total beginners will effortlessly navigate these detailed and reassuringly simple instructions, while loads of illustrations and photographs make the entire process easy-to-follow. With all the tips, tools, and tricks-of-the-trade right on hand, you'll know which special tools to buy and which to rent; how to remove the old stuff and make way for the new; how to select from the dizzying array of new materials on the market; and what to do to get lasting results. (For example, without a vapor barrier, that beautiful new hardwood will buckle in no time.) Plus : dozens of money-saving ways to fix up existing flooring.