Moving Furniture: Saving Your Walls and Floors from Damage - Lessons Learned from My Previous House Move
Moving furniture can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and tools, it doesn't have to be a stressful experience. Here, we share some expert advice from professionals in the moving industry to help you move your furniture cautiously and successfully, minimising potential damage and injury.
Ben Soreff, a partner at House to Home Organizing, suggests using a towel or piece of cardboard as an alternative to furniture sliders. This simple trick can help protect your floors from scratches and dirt.
Protecting Your Floors and Walls
One of the most effective ways to move furniture safely is by protecting your floors and walls. Using floor runners, moving blankets, cardboard, or mats along the paths where furniture will be moved can help avoid scratches and dirt. Lydia Zub, a co-founder of Local Motion Movers, LLC, recommends using thick moving blankets to protect more fragile pieces, while Ben Soreff suggests securing heavier furniture with bungee cords.
Preparing the Path
Clearing and measuring pathways ahead of time is crucial. This includes doorways, hallways, and staircases. By ensuring furniture will fit without forcing and removing any obstacles like rugs, boxes, or toys, you can prevent damage or accidents.
Disassembling Furniture
Disassembling furniture when possible can make pieces smaller and easier to handle, reducing the risk of bumps and scrapes during the move. A compact tool kit like the Amazon Basics 142-Piece Sturdy Household Tool Kit can make disassembling items easier and more efficient.
Using the Right Equipment
Using equipment like dollies, lifts, and sliders can help reduce friction and ease the moving process, helping protect floors and walls from scraping. The Furniture Mover Pro Furniture Dolly, with its 360° rotation and non-slip rubber wheels, is a great option.
Lifting Techniques
Proper lifting techniques are essential to prevent back injuries. Keep your back straight, bend your knees, and use your legs to lift. Avoid twisting or jerking motions. Wearing protective gear such as gloves and sturdy closed-toe shoes with good traction can also help avoid slips and protect feet.
Coordinating with Your Team
Coordinating with your moving team is crucial. Assign roles and communicate clearly with simple commands or signals to prevent mishaps while moving bulky items. Matt Graber, the owner and operator of Cool Hand Movers, a moving company based in NYC, emphasises the importance of clear communication.
Planning the Move
Planning the move carefully can help avoid unexpected problems. Assess risks, develop strategies for tight spots or stairs, and check equipment and pathways before starting. Taking breaks during the moving process can also help relieve tension and prevent mistakes.
By applying these strategies, you can create a safer environment for both movers and your property, minimising potential damage and injury during furniture moves. Whether you're moving house or simply rearranging furniture, these tips can help make the process smoother and less stressful.
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