Popular Types of Flooring
Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.
Hardwood Flooring
The appeal of hardwood floors stands the test of time. With shades including maple, oak, cherry, walnut, 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 cleaners. The more time you invest in maintenance, the longer your floors will last.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood provides you the look and durability of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it uses a layer of real hardwood attached to a plywood substrate. While it's less likely to warp than true hardwood, it can sound hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate floors come in wood and tile finishes, but they all have a particle board base. A strong plastic coating gives them resilience against scratches and simplifies cleaning. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.
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. Their price point sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another classy design that can last for years. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean. As such, it's perfect 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. Pricing varies between styles, with ceramic less expensive than porcelain.
Stone Flooring
Granite, marble, travertine, 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
With proper maintenance, linoleum floors can persist for years. It is a cost-effective choice with various methods for personalization. However, it can readily get dented or scratched and has been known to fade when exposed to the sun's rays. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to fade over time, and it might not work well for damp locations.
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 be concerned with scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for kids. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto moisture, odors, and stains, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Titusville's perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Titusville Flooring Company
Choosing the appropriate installer significantly affects your new floor's longevity. We recommend evaluating different companies using 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 Google, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp to see what previous clients have to say. Even the best flooring installers will have both positive and negative reviews. Look for how an installer responds to complaints and interacts with others. If it strives for a satisfactory resolution and acts in good faith, that's a good sign. However, if it's combative or has a high negative-to-positive review ratio, it's advisable to avoid working with it.
Portfolio and References
Most flooring contractors keep portfolios of their past projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can look over the crew's craftsmanship. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Don't hesitate to request 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 provider'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 companies with design teams.
Cost
While cost shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring installer, it's still important to find one that matches your budget. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to compare labor costs. You can do this fully online or by requesting complimentary on-site estimates.
Warranties and Guarantees
Flooring services typically come with two warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the product itself. The other backs the installers' workmanship. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you select, 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
Time management is essential for a successful flooring job. Before you sign a contract, ask for an estimated timeline and inquire about what delays could impact the project. If a company commits to finishing 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 Titusville
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Titusville?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Titusville?
Do Titusville flooring companies need to be licensed?
Who is the largest flooring manufacturer?
What is the best type of flooring for a kitchen?
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