FLOOR REMOVAL & SUBSTRATE PREPARATION IN SAN FRANCISCO

The substrate — the surface beneath your flooring — determines the long-term success of any flooring installation. No matter how premium your flooring product, it will fail if installed over an improperly prepared substrate. Floor removal and substrate preparation is where our 45 years of experience truly matters.

"Concrete moisture is one of the biggest challenges in flooring — we've learned what the right thing to do is through decades of experience."

San Francisco's older buildings present unique challenges. Many concrete slabs have moisture issues that can destroy new flooring within months. Existing adhesive residues from previous installations can prevent proper bonding. Uneven substrates create bumps and ridges that telegraph through to the finished floor.

Proper floor removal is the first step. Old carpet, tile, VCT, or vinyl must be completely removed along with adhesive residues. In some cases, abatement of hazardous materials like asbestos-containing flooring or adhesives may be required. We coordinate with certified abatement contractors when necessary.

Moisture testing is essential before any new flooring installation. We use both calcium chloride tests and relative humidity probes to assess concrete moisture levels. If moisture exceeds acceptable levels, we can apply moisture mitigation systems that create a barrier between the concrete and your new flooring.

Leveling compounds address uneven substrates. We can fill low spots, smooth rough concrete, and create a perfectly flat surface for your new flooring. This is especially important for thin materials like luxury vinyl plank, which show every imperfection below.

At Peacock Floors, we never cut corners on substrate preparation. It's not visible when the job is done, but it determines whether your flooring lasts 5 years or 25 years. We do it right because your long-term success is our reputation.