The simplest and most effective method is to cover high-traffic areas with protective sheets before work starts. You can use heavy-duty builder’s paper, cardboard, or specialised floor protection rolls that tape down lightly. They create a sacrificial layer that takes the scratches, dust and paint splatters instead of your actual floor.

For corners and under heavy furniture, felt pads work well. Stick them under table legs, sofas and cabinets so they slide instead of grinding grit into the floor. During moves, ask movers to use blankets and sliders instead of dragging items directly.

Even old bedsheets or blankets are better than nothing, as long as they’re taped down so they don’t slip. The time spent laying protection at the start is far less than the time and money it takes to fix dents, chips or paint spots after everything is “done”.