Buying or building a home on the Costa Blanca is an exciting step. Whether it is a renovation or a new-build home, questions always arise.
Where do you start? Do you need to level the floor? Which flooring works best in Spain? And what should you consider when choosing window coverings?
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions so that you can get started well prepared.
When do you start with the flooring during a renovation or new-build project?
The floor is one of the first important choices in the process. In practice, flooring is often installed after the rough work is complete, but before the finishing work.
During a renovation, it is important to check the existing subfloor first. In Spain, there is often a tiled floor that is not immediately suitable for installation over.
In new-build properties, the base may often appear smooth, but appearances can be deceptive. Inspection and often levelling are needed there too.
Do you always need to level the floor in Spain?
In most cases: yes.
Spanish subfloors are rarely flat enough for PVC or other sleek flooring. Tiles have grout lines and height differences, which can show through in the flooring.
A good self-levelling layer provides:
- a level base
- better adhesion
- a sleek final result
Skipping this step is one of the biggest causes of problems later on.
Which flooring is most suitable in Spain?
That depends on the property and how it is used.
Popular choices:
- PVC (dryback) → stable, sleek and durable
- Vinyl (broadly) → practical and comfortable
- Parquet → warm and atmospheric, when applied correctly
- Carpet → especially for bedrooms
In the Spanish climate, stability is important. That is why we often recommend glued-down solutions.
Click PVC or glue-down PVC: which is better in Spain?
This is a frequently asked question.
Click PVC may seem easy, but it is more sensitive to:
- expansion and contraction due to temperature
- uneven subfloors
Glue-down PVC (dryback) is bonded down, making it more stable and providing a tighter finish.
In Spain, glue-down PVC is the best choice in most situations.
Can you lay PVC over tiles?
In theory: yes.
In practice: usually not without preparation.
Tiles have grout lines and height differences that may become visible through the PVC flooring.
Solutions:
- levelling
- or using a suitable underlay (in specific cases)
A proper assessment of the subfloor is essential.
What should you consider when choosing window coverings for a new build?
New-build homes in Spain often have large windows and plenty of light. That is beautiful, but it calls for the right window coverings.
Important points to consider:
- sun protection and heat
- privacy
- appearance
- ease of use
Curtains, blinds, or pleated solutions can greatly improve comfort in the home.
When should you choose window coverings during the process?
As early as possible.
Why:
- you can take fixings and rails into account
- you avoid makeshift solutions later on
- the overall result fits the property better
What are the most common mistakes when renovating in Spain?
Common mistakes:
- not properly preparing the subfloor
- wanting to work too quickly (floor not dry)
- choosing the wrong materials for the climate
- not making an overall plan
These mistakes often lead to additional costs and problems later on.
Do you only work in Altea?
No, we work across a large area of the Costa Blanca, including:
Altea, Albir, Benidorm, Calpe, Benissa, Moraira, Jávea, Denia, and the surrounding area.
A renovation or new-build project on the Costa Blanca requires the right preparation and choices.
We are happy to help with advice, material selection, and professional installation. This ensures a result that is not only beautiful but also stays in place.
Related articles:
- Having PVC flooring installed in Spain
- Why PVC flooring can come loose
- PVC over tiles in Spain
- Flooring costs in Spain
How do you translate this to your own home?
For renovations and new builds on the Costa Blanca - frequently asked questions (FAQ), the situation in the property is always decisive. Take photos in daylight, note the measurements, and record what is currently on the floor or in front of the window. Also describe who uses the space, how often the property is occupied, and which problems you specifically want to solve. This turns general advice into a practical plan.
Do not compare materials solely on appearance. Ask about their technical construction, maintenance, expected lifespan, and the preparation required. A lower-priced product may ultimately be more expensive if the groundwork has not been included or the chosen option is not suited to everyday use.
Practical checklist before ordering
- Check the subfloor, window structure, or installation location instead of relying only on approximate measurements.
- View actual samples in the room's light and at different times of the day.
- Record the colour, execution, direction, operation, and finishing in writing.
- Ask exactly which work and materials are included in the price.
- Schedule other trades in the right order so that new work is not immediately damaged.
Common mistake: committing to one solution too early
An online example can provide inspiration, but says nothing about your subfloor, dimensions, sun exposure, or use. Therefore, start with the function and technical requirements. Only then choose the final colour and appearance. This prevents compromises during installation and makes quotations easier to compare.
At Port of Altea, we combine product advice with measuring and professional installation. This ensures that choices are not made separately from the execution and that details such as skirting boards, profiles, seams, package height, or door clearance can be checked in advance.
More information and advice on the Costa Blanca
Read more about flooring on the Costa Blanca, PVC flooring, carpet, and vinyl. For personal advice, you are welcome to visit our showroom in La Nucía. Bring photos, a floor plan, and approximate measurements, or contact us to schedule an appointment.