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 Cheektowaga seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from oak and maple to cherry and walnut. Despite its charm, hardwood comes with a higher price tag. You also need to stick to a consistent refinishing schedule every few years, filling in the gaps with specialty wood cleaners. The more time you invest in maintenance, the longer your floors will last.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the charm of hardwood without the extra maintenance. They use a plywood base with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately saving you money. 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 scratch resistance 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 strength and longevity depending on the model you buy. Their price point sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. It offers years of life with minimal maintenance needs, and is available in many colors, patterns, and materials. However, it might not work well for living rooms and bedrooms since it's colder and less grippy to walk on. Pricing fluctuates between styles, with ceramic less expensive than porcelain.
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. Despite its unique flair, it's not easy to clean, and long-term maintenance could be a bit more expensive.
Linoleum Flooring
With proper maintenance, linoleum floors can endure for decades. It is a budget-friendly choice with various alternatives for customization. However, it can readily become damaged and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to sunlight. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to lose color over time, and it may not be suitable for damp locations.
Carpet
Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more homey and is great for absorbing sound. You don’t have to be concerned with scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for young children. However, the fibrous material easily retains odors, stains, and moisture, which isn't ideal for pet owners or allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a Cheektowaga Flooring Company
Choosing a floor covering provider 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. You can learn more about previous clients' experiences from review sites like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, and Yelp. Every flooring contractor will have a mix of praise 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 outright complaints than compliments, it's better to steer clear.
Portfolio and References
A trusted flooring company will be excited 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, get in touch and 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 will dispose of your old flooring materials. However, installers can also offer refinishing services or design assistance.
Cost
While price shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring provider, it's still important to find one that honors your budget. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to compare rates. You can do this fully online or by requesting free in-home 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 a few 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
You don't want your flooring work to last longer than necessary. Get an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Communicate your expectations clearly and get any guarantees in writing.
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Flooring Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Cheektowaga
What are the best flooring installation prices?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Cheektowaga?
What are the licensing laws for Cheektowaga flooring companies?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
Who is the largest flooring manufacturer?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.