5 Best Flooring Companies in Akron, OH

Popular Types of Flooring

Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.

Hardwood Flooring

Homebuyers across Akron seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from cherry and walnut to maple and oak. Despite its allure, 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 cleaners. The more time you invest in maintenance, the longer your floors will last.

Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered wood provides you the durability and look of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it consists of a layer of real hardwood bonded over 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 is another more affordable 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 a variety of different styles and colors. However, it chips easily and is susceptible to moisture damage.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has superior moisture and fading resistance and requires minimal upkeep. Popular options include luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP), 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 suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and other moisture-prone areas. It offers years of life with little need for maintenance, and is available in many patterns, colors, and materials. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and smooth 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 marble, sandstone, travertine, and granite. However, like hardwood, it can be expensive and difficult to clean.

Linoleum Flooring

With proper maintenance, linoleum floors can persist for decades. It is an affordable choice with various methods for adaptation. However, it can easily get dented or scratched and has been known to lose its original coloring when exposed to the sun's rays. The sun's rays also lead linoleum to fade over time, and it might not work well for damp locations.

Carpet

Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more cozy 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 kids. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto odors, stains, and moisture, which isn't ideal for pet owners or allergy sufferers.

How to Choose a Akron Flooring Company

Choosing the right installer makes all the difference for your new floor's quality. We recommend assessing different companies using the following criteria.

Reputation and Reviews

The most crucial thing to research about any flooring company is its reputation. Check review sites like Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring installer will have a mix of positive and negative feedback 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

Most floor installers keep portfolios of their past projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can study the crew's workmanship. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Don't hesitate to request their contact information so you can discuss their experiences 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. Equally important is an installer's service offerings. At the very least, it should offer cleanup and haul-away for your old flooring materials. However, if you're feeling lost in all the color, material, and style choices, you can also look for companies with design teams.

Cost

While price shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring installer, it's still important to find one that respects your budget. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. You can do this fully online or by requesting complimentary on-site estimates.

Warranties and Guarantees

Flooring services typically come with a pair of warranties. The first one, issued by the manufacturer, covers the floor itself. The second backs the installation crew's 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 work 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.