Popular Types of Flooring
There's a flooring material for every design preference and price point. In this section, we'll break down the most common types.
Hardwood Flooring
Homebuyers across Pasadena seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from cherry and walnut to oak and maple. However, it's one of the most expensive flooring materials and requires significant upkeep. At a minimum, you'll need to use specialty cleaning products regularly and refinish the floor every few years. Since it's susceptible to water damage, it's also not suitable for bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the beauty of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood base with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately saving you money. While it's more resistant to warping versus true hardwood, it sounds more hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is another more affordable 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 budget-friendly price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another classy design that can endure for years. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is simple to clean. As such, it's an excellent choice for moisture-prone spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and smooth to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you choose, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.
Stone Flooring
Granite, travertine, marble, and sandstone 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
With attentive maintenance, linoleum floors can persist for years. It is a cost-effective choice with various alternatives for personalization. However, it can easily become damaged and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to the sun's rays. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to fade over time, and it may not be suitable for areas with excess moisture.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a comfortable feel to a room and muffles noise effectively. Unlike hard floors, carpet removes concerns about scratches or dents, and the extra padding is much safer for young children. However, carpet requires a good amount of effort to keep clean, especially if you have pets. The fibrous material holds onto stains, dampness, smells, and pollen, making it less suitable for allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a Pasadena Flooring Company
Choosing the proper installer makes all the difference for your new floor's quality. We recommend assessing different companies using 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot. Every flooring installer will have a mix of positive and negative feedback online. If a company handles negative feedback 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
Most flooring contractors keep portfolios of their previous work. We recommend requesting a copy so you can look over the crew's handiwork. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Ask for their contact information so you can discuss their interactions 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 haul away your old flooring materials. However, businesses can also offer refinishing services or design consultations.
Cost
While cost shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring company, it's still important to find one that respects your budget. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. You can do this fully online or by requesting free in-home estimates.
Warranties and Guarantees
You should look for two different warranties in your company search. A manufacturer's warranty protects you in case of a product defect, while an installer's warranty covers workmanship. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you select, warranty coverage could be limited to a fixed term. Other times, it continues for the life of the floor. Ask an installer about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you additional coverage.
Estimated Timeline
You don't want your flooring project to last longer than expected. Request an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Communicate your expectations clearly and secure any guarantees in writing.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Pasadena
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Pasadena?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Pasadena?
What are the licensing laws for Pasadena flooring companies?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
What eco-friendly flooring options are available in Pasadena?
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