How to Protect Floors During a Remodel: Mistakes Contractors Still Make in 2025

When it comes to remodeling, protecting the floors is often treated as an afterthought—and that’s exactly when expensive problems start. From stained carpet to scratched hardwood, floor damage during renovations leads to avoidable costs, callbacks, and lost trust with clients.

Even experienced pros still overlook basic floor protection principles. Here are the most common mistakes contractors make in 2025—and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Type of Protection Film

Not all surface films are created equal. For example, using carpet protection film on hardwood can actually cause damage rather than prevent it. You’ll be peeling film and trying to remove residue for hours. 

✅ Solution: Use carpet film only on synthetic carpets. For hard surfaces, Plasticover’s Floor and Multi-Use Film is ideal for tile, laminate, and sealed wood. It grips securely and removes cleanly.  AND, it's colored in blue so you know which to use.  Clear = Carpet, Blue = Hard Surfaces.

Mistake #2: Leaving Film Down Too Long

Many assume protection film can stay down until the job’s done, but most films have a time limit—most are 30 day or 45 days at the most. After that, adhesives may cure and damage the surface.

✅ Solution: Use extended-wear films rated for up to 60 days like Plasticover’s. Always set calendar reminders to inspect and replace as needed.  Writing a "remove by" date on the film with a sharpie is a great way to let the crew know this critical information.

Mistake #3: Skipping Prep Before Application

Applying film to dirty or wet surfaces reduces adhesion and can trap debris and moisture underneath, causing damage over time.

✅ Solution: Sweep or vacuum first. Make sure floors are completely dry. Use a roller or your foot to firmly press the film into place.

Mistake #4: Underestimating Heavy Traffic Areas

Entryways and hallways get beat up fast. Film alone often isn’t enough in high-traffic zones.

✅ Solution: Double-layer or combine with sticky mats at the entrances to remove debris form shoes or boots before it enters the building. Inspect daily and replace torn areas quickly.

Mistake #5: Not Training the Crew

Even great products fail when installed poorly. If your crew isn’t trained, floor protection won’t hold up—and you’ll get blamed.

✅ Solution: Show your team how to apply film properly and even more importantly, when and why it needs to be removed. Carpet Film Applicators can make application easier for large runs and removal is simple.

Why Contractors Trust Plasticover

• Products designed for real jobsite wear and tear
• Extended use ratings up to 60 days (longest in the market)
• Safe for a wide range of surfaces
• Clean removal that doesn’t leave sticky residue

Whether you're managing a quick paint job or a multi-phase remodel, Plasticover gives you professional-grade protection you can trust.

Ready to Remodel Without Regret?

Explore Plasticover’s surface protection solutions and keep your jobsite clean, professional, and callback-free.