5 Best Flooring Companies in Central Islip, NY

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 Central Islip 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 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 durability and look of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it uses a layer of real hardwood fused with 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 defense against scratches and simplifies cleaning. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has superior moisture and fading resistance and requires minimal upkeep. 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. Vinyl flooring installation cost 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 an ideal choice for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and smooth to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you select, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.

Stone Flooring

Granite, sandstone, marble, and travertine 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

Linoleum is made from cork and linseed oil and can last for decades if cared for properly. It’s an economical option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to damage, and it's known to discolor with sunlight 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 comfortable 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 time and effort to keep clean, especially if you have pets. The fibrous material holds onto stains, dampness, smells, and allergens.

How to Choose a Central Islip 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 Yelp, Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Trustpilot to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring installer will have a mix of praise and criticism online. If a company handles negative feedback in a constructive 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

A good flooring company will be happy to show you portfolios of its previous work. Take a good look at each listed project and ask questions as you have them. It's also good practice to ask for references from former 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. An installer's service offerings can also make a difference. At the very least, you should choose a provider that offers to haul away your old flooring materials. However, installers can also offer hardwood refinishing or design assistance.

Cost

While cost shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring company, it's still important to find one that matches your budget. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies to compare labor costs. You can do this fully online or by requesting free in-home estimates.

Warranties and Guarantees

Flooring services typically come with a pair of warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the materials. The second backs the installers' workmanship. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you pick, warranty protection could be limited to a fixed term. Other times, it continues for the life of the floor. Ask a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you a few more years of 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 issues could impact the project. If a company commits to finishing the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and convey your expectations clearly as the work progresses.