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 Elizabeth seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from oak and maple to walnut and cherry. However, it's among the priciest of flooring materials and requires significant upkeep. 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 bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the charm of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood substrate with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately saving you money. Despite the lower retail cost, it might feel more hollow to walk on, and the thin hardwood layer can only be refinished once. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it a good investment.
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 uncomplicated. You can purchase them in luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) styles, with each option equally resilient. They also come at a budget-friendly price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas. It offers years of life with little need for maintenance, and is available in many materials, patterns, and colors. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and smooth to walk on. Pricing depends on the material you select, with porcelain being more expensive 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. 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 decades if maintained 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 areas with excess moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more cozy and is great for reducing sound. You don’t have to be concerned with scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for babies and toddlers. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto moisture, odors, and stains, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Elizabeth's perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Elizabeth Flooring Company
Choosing a flooring company is just as critical 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 Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, 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 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 reputable flooring company will be eager to show you portfolios of its previous work. Closely inspect each listed project and ask questions as you have them. It's also customary to ask for references from past customers. Once you have their contact information, get in touch and ask about their experiences.
Specialization and Services
Look for an installer that specializes in the type of flooring you're interested in. For example, a crew might be experienced with carpet but not tile. 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, color, and style choices, you can also look for companies with design teams.
Cost
Cost is vital to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your selection 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 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. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you choose, warranty protection could be limited to a fixed term. Other times, it continues for the life of the floor. Ask an installer about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you additional coverage.
Estimated Timeline
Time management is critical for 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 convey your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Elizabeth
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Elizabeth?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Elizabeth?
What are the licensing laws for Elizabeth 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 high foot traffic or moisture? What look would pair well with the furniture, walls, and trim?
A Elizabeth flooring installer can discuss all these considerations and more to help you make an informed decision.
What is the average timeline for flooring installation in Elizabeth?
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