5 Best Flooring Companies in Bethlehem, NY

Installing new flooring is a major job, and it's easy to get lost in all the many design and material options. A local contractor in Bethlehem can help you choose the right floor and install it to last. See which flooring companies in the Bethlehem, NY area offer the best pricing, selection, and service.

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

The appeal of hardwood floors stands the test of time. With shades including maple, cherry, walnut, oak, 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 gives you the aesthetic of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood substrate with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. 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 is another budget-friendly flooring option, consisting of a particleboard base, wood or tile finish, and protective plastic coating. It's easy to clean, scratch-resistant, and available in countless different styles and colors. 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 long-lasting. They also come at an affordable price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.

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 an ideal choice for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and slippery to walk on. Pricing depends 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 travertine, sandstone, marble, and granite. However, like hardwood, it can be expensive and difficult to clean.

Linoleum Flooring

With attentive maintenance, linoleum floors can last for decades. It is an affordable choice with many possibilities for customization. However, it can easily become damaged and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to direct sunlight. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to fade over time, and it may not be suitable for damp locations.

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 eliminates 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 grips stains, dampness, smells, and allergens.

How to Choose a Bethlehem Flooring Company

Choosing the proper installer makes all the difference for your new floor's longevity. We recommend screening 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. You can learn more about previous clients' experiences from review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. Every flooring provider will have a mix of praise and criticism online. If a company addresses issues 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 avoid working with it.

Portfolio and References

Most flooring contractors keep portfolios of their proudest projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can examine 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 interactions 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. A contractor's service offerings can also make a difference. At the very least, you should choose a provider that offers to dispose of your old flooring materials. However, businesses can also offer refinishing services or design advisory.

Cost

Cost is vital to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your decision-making process. We recommend getting multiple 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

Flooring services typically come with a pair of warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the product itself. The other covers the installers' workmanship. While a few 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 project to last longer than necessary. Get an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Communicate your expectations clearly and secure any guarantees in writing.

Other Flooring Resources

• Best Flooring for Kitchens
• Best Laminate Flooring
• What Is the Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors?

Sources

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics