We spent over $12,000 replacing our carpets with vinyl-plank flooring. It looks nice, but I regret it every day.
Business Insider
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Replacing carpets with vinyl-plank flooring seemed like a simple and affordable home improvement project, but for Lauren Salles Gumpert, it quickly turned into a costly nightmare. What began as a $6,000 renovation to replace outdated carpets in her main living space escalated to over $12,000 due to unforeseen issues like wet subflooring, damaged French doors, and contractor errors. Despite the final result—a stylish vinyl-plank floor—the experience left her regretting the decision. The project revealed hidden problems, including a raised outlet that remains a tripping hazard for her children, as well as unexpected challenges like temperature differences between upstairs and downstairs.
The journey started with good intentions: updating the home’s appearance with a fresh coat of paint and modern appliances. However, when demolition began, contractors uncovered wet subflooring near French doors, necessitating the rental of a dehumidifier and repairs to both the doors and subfloor. Adding insult to injury, a subcontractor later damaged drywall while removing kitchen flooring, further delaying the project. These setbacks cost an additional $4,000 in rushed repairs, which ultimately failed to resolve the issues properly.
The financial and logistical struggles didn’t end with the installation of the vinyl-plank flooring. The thinner material caused toilets and drop-through outlets to no longer sit flush, requiring a plumber to install a new flange. Additionally, the cooler downstairs temperature in summer turned into an uncomfortable winter reality, forcing the family to keep their thermostat low to manage heat distribution between floors.
For readers interested in business and finance, this story highlights the risks of home-renovation projects that are often more complex—and costly—than anticipated. While the final result may look nice, the hidden problems and long-term consequences can make such updates feel far from worthwhile unless they address critical functional needs. As Gumpert reflects, many home-improvement projects are rarely as easy or rewarding as promised, serving as a cautionary tale for those considering similar endeavors.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/26/2026