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When it comes to home improvement projects, installing new flooring can make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of any room. However, high quality floor installation requires skills and experience that not every contractor possesses. That’s why it’s important to choose an established flooring company with a track record of beautiful and long-lasting floor installation work.
The key is finding a seasoned flooring contractor who specializes in the type of flooring you want to install. Whether you’re interested in carpet, hardwood, tile, vinyl or something else, they should have extensive experience in that specific area. Ask to see photos of previous jobs to get a feel for their work. A reliable flooring company will be happy to provide references from satisfied customers as well.
Evaluate Experience and Specialization
An experienced flooring company like a flooring contractor will be up to date on the latest products, styles and techniques. They should guide you in selecting materials that are attractive, durable and suitable for your home and lifestyle. Specialized knowledge is especially crucial for more complex jobs like refinishing hardwood or laying intricate tile patterns. Well-trained installers know all the tricks of working with challenging layouts and angles.
In addition to field experience, many of the best flooring installation technicians continue developing their skills over years or decades. Ongoing training enables them to provide exceptional service using the most advanced methods. Find out about the continuing education and credentials held by the installers who will work in your home.
Attention to Detail and Planning
Meticulous measurement, careful material planning and methodical installation procedures separate the pros from the amateurs. Rushing through a flooring job often leads to mistakes, uneven tiles or gaps along edges. Professional flooring companies measure everything twice, calculate material needs accurately and follow step-by-step best practices.
Ask how the company approaches challenges like working around door jambs and transitions between rooms. Their process should minimize potential problems through careful planning. They should also explain how they ensure straight tile layouts or seamless stretches of wood flooring throughout the work area.
Cleanliness and Protection
Replacing the flooring is messy work, but a conscientious company will protect your home from damage during the process. They should keep the work area contained with plastic sheeting and remove all debris on a daily basis. Professional installers also wear shoe covers to avoid tracking dust into other areas.
An established flooring company will warranty their labor in addition to any product warranties. Be sure to get all guarantees in writing prior to the job. Reputable contractors stand behind their work and will quickly address any post-installation issues that arise.
Types of Flooring Specialties
There are flooring contractors that specialize in specific types of flooring including carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, vinyl and more. Make sure to choose a company with extensive experience installing the type of flooring you want. For example, proper hardwood installation requires expertise in sanding, staining and finishing achieving durable, smooth results. Tile setting is also skilled work, especially for detailed patterns or large format tiles.
References and Reviews
The best indicator of quality is checking references and reviews of the contractor’s previous flooring jobs. Established companies should be able to provide multiple references from satisfied customers. Look for reviews on Google, Facebook or third party sites emphasizing attention to detail, cleanliness and overall beautiful results. If a company hesitates to provide references or has concerning reviews, keep looking.
Manufacturer Relationships
Many leading flooring manufacturers only partner with and warranty projects completed by their specially vetted installation contractors. Working with one of these premium installers ensures you’ll get extended warranty coverage in addition to expert service. Ask if the company has certifications, partnerships or preferred contractor status from brands like Shaw Floors or Mohawk.
Project Management Process
There’s a lot more to professional installations than just cutting and placing flooring materials. Ask about their full process from initial quote, to materials procurement, pre-installation checks, project staging, debris removal, warranty paperwork and more. They should have a system for managing every step of the job including contingencies if unexpected issues arise.
Crew Training and Certification
Don’t assume all members of the installation crew have the same level of experience or expertise. Make sure to ask about the specific training and certification requirements for installers. Some require years of experience before technicians can lead projects. Continuing education may also be necessary for installers to keep up with new flooring products.
Safety Standards
In addition to delivering flawless results, a responsible contractor maintains strict safety protocols for themselves and your home. They should be happy to provide documentation of workers compensation, liability insurance and license/bonded status. It’s also reasonable to ask about background checks performed. You want a crew you can trust working inside your home.
Service After the Sale
The mark of an excellent flooring company is continuing to provide support long after the job is done. They should be available to address any post-installation questions or issues that come up. Some even provide free maintenance and repairs of their flooring projects for certain periods of time. Check their guarantees ensure you’ll receive ongoing service.
Key Takeaways:
- Choose an experienced flooring company that specializes in your type of flooring material.
- Look for evidence of ongoing training and credentials for their installation technicians.
- Confirm they have a systematic process for measurements, planning and meticulous installation.
- Make sure they protect your home from mess and damage throughout the job.
- Get all labor and product warranties in writing prior to the work beginning?
- Ask to see previous work and contact customer references.
- Reputable flooring contractors stand behind their work quality for years after the job.
Installing new flooring can instantly upgrade the look and comfort of any room when done properly. But subpar installation can lead to expensive repairs, safety hazards or the need to completely replace floors sooner than expected. That’s why investing in a qualified flooring contractor is so important for long-lasting, beautiful results. Taking the time to evaluate experience, training, attention to detail and professionalism pays off through their meticulous, skilled work. Take steps like checking references, manufacturer relationships and service guarantees to ensure you find the perfect installation crew for the job. By partnering with a premium flooring company from start to finish, you’ll protect your investment and be able to enjoy your gorgeous new floors for decades to come. And you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve enhanced your home with the highest quality craftsmanship.
How soon can I install flooring after a new construction or remodeling project?
New construction or remodeling projects should sit for at least 60 days before the final step of flooring installation to allow materials and adhesives to fully cure. New concrete, drywall compound, and paint need adequate drying times before flooring can be laid down properly. Any residual moisture or off-gassing chemicals can undermine floor finishes or cause issues like bubbles, discoloration or premature wear. Hardwood, for example, moves in response to moisture so excessive humidity affects stability and appearance. Reputable flooring companies will always check conditions and moisture levels before installation to prevent expensive problems down the line. Be patient to ensure the previous construction work has sufficiently stabilized before installing your flooring.
When is it best timing to replace existing floors?
During moderate periods in the annual home improvement season are ideal for flooring replacement projects. Early spring or fall offer comfortable weather for the work plus high demand from homeowners spurs quicker contractor availability. Avoid coldest winter months when below-freezing temperatures create safety and jobsite challenges. Very hot summer weather also limits productivity for flooring crews installing finishes like carpet or wood. The most popular times often book up earliest as everyone plans their renovations, so you may wait for service without advance planning. Start inquiring about floor replacement in February for ideal spring or early fall completion to lock in top crews.
How disruptive is it to install new floors in an occupied home?
Professional installers take steps to contain mess from flooring replacement projects but some localized dust and debris is nearly impossible to prevent. You should empty work areas since tools, materials, old flooring and foot traffic can damage furnishings. Also be prepared for noise, temporary loss of access to rooms, and utility interruptions while demolition is ongoing. The process usually takes several days to upwards of 1-2 weeks for whole house flooring revamps. Pets may need relocation and you should avoid keeping small children on site due to safety concerns. Your routine will be disrupted but the beautiful new floors make the hassle worthwhile! Temporary side effects are unavoidable but experienced crews minimize imposition.
What questions should I ask upfront when comparing bids from flooring companies?
The lowest upfront bid often masks much higher long term expense from subpar materials, rushed procedures or hidden fees. Important points of comparison include the brands/ grades of flooring included, removal / site prep specifics, standard versus premium backing layers, moisture testing process, trim reinstallation plans, flat rate pricing, and service warranties. Red flags include very sparse bids lacking those details plus exceptionally brief timelines given most reputable firms have waiting lists. Always verify what factors do or don’t influence final payments – some sly contractors quote rock bottom hourly wages but then take three times longer than typical. Doing your due diligence pays off to get true apples-to-apples value comparison from competing bids.
How can I maintain my new floors properly after installation?
All flooring types require some degree of regular care and maintenance by homeowners to sustain their beauty and durability over decades. Carpets need frequent vacuuming plus periodic professional steam cleaning every year or two. Hardwoods and laminates should be swept and mopped often using specially formulated cleaners compatible with the finish. Spills must be wiped up immediately on most surfaces. Putting down area rugs, using furniture glides and maintaining strict humidity levels protects floors too. Read all guidelines provided by your flooring company to understand product-specific maintenance do’s and don’ts. With proper perpetual homeowner care following the initial investment, your new floors can stay looking pristine and new for incredibly long lifespans.