Popular Types of Flooring
Whether you're looking for something bold and lively or subtle and elegant, 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 options including maple, oak, cherry, walnut, and more, it can fit any design without sacrificing durability. 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 restore its finish every few years. Since it's susceptible to water damage, it's also not suitable for basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
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 attached to 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 plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) styles, with each option equally durable. They also come at a cost-effective price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another classy design that can endure for years. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is simple to clean. As such, it's perfect for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and sleek to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you pick, 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 granite, travertine, sandstone, and marble. 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 a cost-effective option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to damage, and it's known to discolor with sun exposure. It’s also not suitable for areas with excess moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a cozy feel to a room and reduces noise effectively. Unlike hard floors, carpet removes concerns about scratches or dents, and the extra padding is much safer for young children. However, carpet requires a good amount of effort to keep clean, especially if you have pets. The fibrous material holds onto stains, dampness, smells, and pollen, making it less suitable for allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a Baton Rouge Flooring Company
Choosing the appropriate installer will impact your new floor's quality. We recommend screening different companies using the following criteria.
Reputation and Reviews
The most crucial thing to research about any flooring company is its reputation. Check review sites like Trustpilot, Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring contractor will have a mix of positive and negative feedback online. If a company addresses issues in an amicable 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 contractors keep portfolios of their proudest projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can study the crew's workmanship. 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
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 tile. A company'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 hardwood refinishing or design assistance.
Cost
While price shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring company, it's still important to find one that honors your budget. We recommend getting quotes from three to five companies to compare rates. 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 floor itself. The second backs the installers' workmanship. While some 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
You don't want your flooring work to last longer than needed. 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 Baton Rouge
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Baton Rouge?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Baton Rouge?
What are the licensing laws for Baton Rouge flooring companies?
How do I choose the right flooring material for my space?
Just as well, consider the nature of the space itself. Is it exposed to moisture or high foot traffic? What look would go best with the furniture, trim, and walls?
A Baton Rouge flooring installer can discuss all these considerations and more to help you make an informed decision.
How long does it usually take to install a floor in Baton Rouge?
- The model and material of floor
- The size of your space
- Your installer's experience
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.