Popular Types of Flooring
Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.
Hardwood Flooring
Homebuyers across Bonita Springs seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from oak and maple 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 basements, laundry rooms, or bathrooms.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the beauty of hardwood without the extra maintenance. They use a plywood foundation with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. While it's more resistant to warping versus true hardwood, it can sound hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is another 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 countless different styles and colors. However, it chips easily and is susceptible to moisture damage.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring has excellent water and fading resistance and is easy to maintain. Popular options include luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT), with both having equal durability and longevity depending on the model you buy. The cost of installing vinyl flooring sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another classy design that can endure for years. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean. As such, it's an excellent choice for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it might not work well for bedrooms and living rooms since it's colder and less grippy to walk on. The cost differs between styles, with porcelain carrying a higher price tag 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. Despite its unique flair, it's not easy to clean, and long-term maintenance could be a bit more expensive.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum is made from cork and linseed oil and can last for many years if cared for properly. It’s an economical option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to dent or scratch, and it's known to discolor with sunlight exposure. It’s also not suitable for areas with excess moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more comfortable and is great for absorbing sound. You don’t have to worry about scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for young children. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto moisture, odors, and stains, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Bonita Springs' perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Bonita Springs 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 Trustpilot, Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring installer will have a mix of compliments and criticism online. If a company handles negative feedback in a constructive and satisfactory way, it's generally a good sign. However, if you find more outright complaints than compliments, it's better to steer clear.
Portfolio and References
Most flooring companies keep portfolios of their proudest projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can examine the crew's workmanship. It's also customary to ask for references from former customers. Once you have their contact information, reach out to ask about their experiences.
Specialization and Services
Look for a business that specializes in the type of flooring you're interested in. For example, a crew might be experienced with carpet but not stone. A contractor's service offerings can also make a difference. At the very least, you should choose a provider that will haul away your old flooring materials. However, businesses can also offer refinishing services or design assistance.
Cost
Cost is vital to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your decision-making 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 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 choose, warranty coverage could be limited to a fixed term. Other times, it continues for the life of the floor. Ask a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you longer coverage.
Estimated Timeline
Time management is essential for a successful flooring job. Before you sign a contract, ask for an estimated timeline and inquire about what hurdles could impact the project. If a company guarantees it'll finish the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and communicate your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Bonita Springs
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Bonita Springs?
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Bonita Springs?
What are the licensing laws for Bonita Springs flooring companies?
How long does it usually take to install a floor in Bonita Springs?
- The model and material of floor
- The size of your space
- Your installer's experience
What are the signs it's time to replace my old flooring?
- 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.