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 cherry, oak, walnut, maple, 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 refinish the floor 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 charm of hardwood without the demand for regular maintenance. They use a plywood foundation with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately saving you money. While it's more resistant to warping versus true hardwood, it can sound hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
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 superior moisture and fading resistance and is easy to maintain. Popular options include luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP), with both having equal strength and long-lasting nature depending on the model you buy. Their price point 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 simple to clean. As such, it's perfect for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and smooth to walk on. Pricing depends on the material you choose, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.
Stone Flooring
Granite, travertine, sandstone, and marble 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
With attentive maintenance, linoleum floors can endure for years. It is an affordable choice with many alternatives for personalization. However, it can easily get dented or scratched and has been known to fade when exposed to the sun's rays. The sun's rays also lead linoleum to lose color over time, and it might not work well for damp locations.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a comfortable feel to a room and absorbs 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 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 Greece Flooring Company
Choosing the appropriate installer significantly affects your new floor's longevity. We recommend evaluating different companies using the following criteria.
Reputation and Reviews
The most crucial thing to research about any flooring company is its reputation. You can learn more about previous clients' experiences from review sites like Yelp, Google, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Every flooring provider will have a mix of positive and negative feedback 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 floor installers keep portfolios of their previous work. We recommend requesting a copy so you can look over the crew's craftsmanship. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Ask for their contact information so you can discuss their experiences and thoughts about the company.
Specialization and Services
Look for a provider that specializes in the type of flooring you're interested in. For example, a crew might be experienced with carpet but not hardwood. A company'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, providers can also offer hardwood refinishing or design consultations.
Cost
While cost shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring company, it's still important to find one that honors your budget. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. You can do this fully online or by requesting free in-home estimates.
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 a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you a few more years of coverage.
Estimated Timeline
You don't want your flooring project to last longer than expected. Get an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Express your expectations clearly and get any guarantees in writing.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Greece
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Greece?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Greece?
Do Greece flooring companies need to be licensed?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
How do I decide which flooring material is right?
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.