Popular Types of Flooring
Whether you're looking for something lively and bold or subtle and elegant, there's a floor for you. Discover the most essential details about each type to guide your decision making.
Hardwood Flooring
The appeal of hardwood floors stands the test of time. With shades including maple, cherry, oak, walnut, and more, it can fit any design without sacrificing durability. Despite its allure, hardwood comes with a higher price tag. You also need to stick to a consistent refinishing schedule every few years, filling in the gaps with specialty wood cleaners. The more time you invest in maintenance, the longer your floors will last.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the beauty of hardwood without the demand for regular maintenance. They use a plywood foundation with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. Despite the lower retail cost, it might sound more hollow to walk on, and the thin hardwood layer can only be refinished one time. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it a good investment.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is another cost-effective flooring option, consisting of a particleboard base, wood or tile finish, and protective plastic coating. It's easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and available in many different styles and colors. However, it chips easily and is susceptible to moisture damage.
Vinyl Flooring
Maintenance with vinyl floors is as simple as it gets. You can purchase them in luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) styles, with each option equally long-lasting. They also come at a reasonable price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is excellent for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas. It offers years of life with low upkeep requirements, and is available in many materials, colors, and patterns. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and sleek to walk on. Pricing depends on the material you choose, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.
Stone Flooring
Granite, travertine, sandstone, and marble aren't just for the outdoors. Inside, they can give you a bold look and unparalleled water resistance. However, like hardwood, it can be expensive and difficult to clean.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum is made from cork and linseed oil and can endure for many years if maintained properly. It’s an economical option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to damage, and it's known to fade with sun exposure. It’s also not suitable for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more homey and is great for absorbing sound. You don’t have to fret about scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for babies and toddlers. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto stains, odors, and moisture, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Brentwood's perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Brentwood Flooring Company
Choosing a floor installer is just as influential as choosing a design. To ensure you get the most value, consider each of the following criteria.
Reputation and Reviews
The most crucial thing to research about any flooring company is its reputation. You can learn more about previous clients' experiences from review sites like Trustpilot, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google. Every flooring installer will have a mix of praise and criticism online. If a company resolves complaints in a constructive and satisfactory way, it's generally a good sign. However, if you find more negative reviews than positive ones, it's better to steer clear.
Portfolio and References
A good flooring company will be excited to show you portfolios of its previous work. Take a good look at each listed project and ask questions as you have them. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Don't hesitate to request their contact information so you can discuss their experiences and thoughts about the company.
Specialization and Services
No two companies have the same experience or product offerings. You should find one that specializes in the material or type of floor you're interested in. An installer's service offerings can also make a difference. At the very least, you should choose a provider that offers to dispose of your old flooring materials. However, companies can also offer refinishing services or design advisory.
Cost
Cost is crucial to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your selection process. We recommend getting three to five different quotes for your flooring job to compare pricing and workmanship. Many companies offer on-site and online estimates to simplify the process.
Warranties and Guarantees
Flooring services typically come with two warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the materials. The second backs the installation crew's workmanship. While some manufacturers and contractors have lifetime warranties, most are still tied to a specific time period (often ten years.) If you'd like additional coverage, you might be able to pay extra for an extended warranty.
Estimated Timeline
Time management is key to a successful flooring job. Before you sign a contract, request an estimated timeline and inquire about what hurdles could impact the project. If a company commits to finishing the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and convey your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Brentwood
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Brentwood?
What's the most popular flooring material in Brentwood?
Do Brentwood flooring companies need to be licensed?
How long does it usually take to install a floor in Brentwood?
- The model and material of floor
- The size of your space
- Your installer's experience
What are the telltale signs I need to replace my floor?
- Uncontrollable mildew or mold growth
- Holes, scratches, or dents
- Increasing space between tiles or planks
- Spots that feel loose or unstable
- Water damage
- Heightened squeakiness
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.