Popular Types of Flooring
Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.
Hardwood Flooring
Homebuyers across Plainfield seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from walnut and cherry to maple and oak. However, it's one of the most expensive flooring materials and requires significant upkeep. 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 strict maintenance. They use a plywood base with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. Despite the lower retail cost, it might sound more hollow to walk on, and the slender hardwood layer can only be refinished a single time. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it an intelligent 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 resilience against scratches and simplifies cleaning. 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 long-lasting nature depending on the model you buy. Their price point sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas. It provides years of life with little need for maintenance, and is available in many materials, patterns, and colors. 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
Stone floors are among the most waterproof available. You can choose from a variety of bold design options, including travertine, granite, marble, and sandstone. However, like hardwood, it can be expensive and difficult to clean.
Linoleum Flooring
With attentive maintenance, linoleum floors can persist for years. It is a budget-friendly choice with many possibilities for customization. However, it can readily become damaged and has been known to fade when exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to lose color over time, and it may not be suitable for moisture-prone spaces.
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 fret about scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for young children. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto stains, moisture, and odors, which isn't ideal for allergy sufferers in Plainfield's perennially-high pollen levels.
How to Choose a Plainfield Flooring Company
Choosing a floor installer 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot 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 negative reviews than positive ones, it's better to avoid working with it.
Portfolio and References
Most flooring companies keep portfolios of their past projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can inspect the crew's workmanship. It's also customary to ask for references from past customers. Once you have their contact information, contact them to ask about their experiences.
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. A company's service offerings can also make a difference. At the very least, you should choose a provider that will dispose of your old flooring materials. However, providers can also offer refinishing services or design consultations.
Cost
Cost is key 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 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. While some manufacturers and contractors have lifetime warranties, most are still tied 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
Time management is critical 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 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 Plainfield
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Plainfield?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Plainfield?
What are the licensing laws for Plainfield flooring companies?
Could I save money by buying flooring online?
How do I choose the right flooring material for my space?
Other questions to consider are the following:
- Does the room see a lot of moisture or foot traffic?
- What style best compliments my walls, furniture, and millwork?
- What are the long-term benefits of choosing one material over another?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.