Popular Types of Flooring
Whether you're looking for something elegant and subtle or bold and lively, 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, walnut, oak, cherry, and more, it can fit any design without sacrificing durability. Despite its charm, 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 provides you the durability and look of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it consists of a layer of real hardwood attached to a plywood substrate. 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 floors come in tile and wood finishes, but they all have a particle board base. A strong plastic coating gives them defense against scratches and simplifies cleaning. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.
Vinyl Flooring
Maintenance with vinyl floors is a breeze. You can purchase them in luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) styles, with each option equally resilient. They also come at a cost-effective price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is a great choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. It offers years of life with minimal maintenance needs, and is available in many patterns, colors, and materials. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and smooth 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 sandstone, granite, marble, and travertine. However, like hardwood, it can be expensive and difficult to clean.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum is made from linseed oil and cork and can endure 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 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 cozy 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 kids. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto moisture, stains, and odors, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Sunrise's perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Sunrise 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. Check review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring provider 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
A reputable 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 a company'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 color, material, and style choices, you can also look for installers with design teams.
Cost
Cost is key 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 streamline the process.
Warranties and Guarantees
Flooring services typically come with two warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the materials. The other backs the installers' workmanship. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you pick, warranty coverage could be limited to a fixed term. In other instances, it lasts for the life of the floor. Ask a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you longer coverage.
Estimated Timeline
You don't want your flooring project to last longer than necessary. 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 Sunrise
What are the best flooring installation prices?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Sunrise?
What are the licensing laws for Sunrise flooring companies?
How do I decide which flooring material is right?
Just as well, consider the nature of the space itself. Is it exposed to high foot traffic or moisture? What look would pair well with the walls, trim, and furniture?
A Sunrise flooring installer can discuss all these considerations and more to help you make an informed decision.
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.