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 Stamford seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from maple and oak to cherry and walnut. However, it's one of the most expensive flooring materials and requires consistent maintenance. 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 laundry rooms, basements, or bathrooms.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the resilience and timeless design of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it uses a layer of real hardwood fused with a plywood substrate. 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 sound investment.
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'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 durable. They also come at a budget-friendly price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another timeless-looking, robust option. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is simple to clean. As such, it's an ideal choice for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and slippery to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you select, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.
Stone Flooring
Stone floors are among the most waterproof available. You can choose from a variety of bold design options, including marble, sandstone, granite, and travertine. Despite its unique flair, it's not easy to clean, and long-term maintenance could be a bit more expensive.
Linoleum Flooring
With attentive maintenance, linoleum floors can last for years. It is a cost-effective choice with various possibilities for customization. However, it can easily become damaged and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to lose color over time, and it may not be suitable for moisture-prone spaces.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a homey feel to a room and reduces noise effectively. Unlike hard floors, carpet gets rid of 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 Stamford Flooring Company
Choosing a flooring company 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 first thing to note is whether a company is known for good service and high-quality work. Check review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, 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 handles negative feedback 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 trusted flooring company will be eager to show you portfolios of its previous work. Examine each listed project and ask questions as you have them. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Ask for 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. Equally important is an installer's service offerings. At the very least, it should offer cleanup and haul-away for your old flooring materials. However, if you're feeling lost in all the material, style, and color choices, you can also look for installers with design teams.
Cost
Cost is vital to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your decision-making 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 simplify 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. While a few manufacturers and contractors have lifetime warranties, most are still restricted 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 agree to work with a company, ask for an estimated timeline and inquire about what hurdles could impact the project. If a company promises to finish the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and state your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Stamford
What are the best flooring installation prices?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Stamford?
Do Stamford flooring companies need to be licensed?
If I'm replacing a kitchen floor, what material should I buy?
How long does it usually take to install a floor in Stamford?
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