5 Best Flooring Companies in Hamden, CT

Popular Types of Flooring

Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.

Hardwood Flooring

Homebuyers across Hamden seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from cherry and walnut to maple and oak. However, it's among the priciest of flooring materials and requires significant upkeep. At a minimum, you'll need to use specialty cleaning products regularly and restore its finish every few years. Since it's susceptible to water damage, it's also not suitable for bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood provides you the resilience and timeless design of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it uses a layer of real hardwood bonded over a plywood substrate. While it's less likely to warp than true hardwood, it sounds more hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate floors come in tile and wood finishes, but they all have a particle board base. A strong plastic coating gives them scratch resistance and simplifies cleaning. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.

Vinyl Flooring

Maintenance with vinyl floors is uncomplicated. 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 cost-effective price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.

Tile Flooring

Tile flooring is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. It provides years of life with low upkeep requirements, and is available in many patterns, colors, and materials. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and sleek to walk on. Pricing depends on the material you pick, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.

Stone Flooring

Granite, sandstone, marble, and travertine aren't just for the outdoors. Inside, they can give you a bold look and unparalleled water resistance. Despite its unique flair, it's not easy to clean, and long-term maintenance could be a bit more expensive.

Linoleum Flooring

With proper maintenance, linoleum floors can endure for years. It is an affordable choice with numerous possibilities for customization. However, it can easily become damaged and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to sunlight. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to fade over time, and it might not work well 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 reduces noise effectively. Unlike hard floors, carpet eliminates concerns about scratches or dents, and the extra padding is much safer for young children. However, carpet requires time and effort to keep clean, especially if you have pets. The fibrous material retains stains, dampness, and smells

How to Choose a Hamden Flooring Company

Choosing a floor covering provider is just as significant 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. Check review sites like Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Trustpilot to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring contractor will have a mix of compliments and criticism online. If a company addresses issues in an amicable 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 happy to show you portfolios of its previous work. Closely inspect each listed project and ask questions as you have them. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Request 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. A contractor'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, providers can also offer refinishing services or design consultations.

Cost

Cost is vital to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your selection process. We recommend getting at least three different quotes for your flooring job to compare pricing and workmanship. Many companies offer on-site and online estimates to streamline the process.

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. In other instances, it continues for the life of the floor. Ask a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you a few more years of 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 get any guarantees in writing.