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, walnut, cherry, 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 offers you the durability and look of hardwood without the extra maintenance. Typically, it uses a layer of real hardwood attached to a plywood substrate. Despite the lower retail cost, it might feel more hollow to walk on, and the thin hardwood layer can only be refinished one time. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it a sound investment.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is another more affordable flooring option, consisting of a particleboard base, wood or tile finish, and protective plastic coating. It's scratch-resistant, easy to clean, 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 is easy to maintain. Popular options include luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP), with both having equal durability 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 cooler and less grippy to walk on. Pricing fluctuates between styles, with ceramic less expensive than porcelain.
Stone Flooring
Granite, sandstone, travertine, 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
Linoleum is made from linseed oil and cork and can endure for decades if cared for properly. It’s a cost-effective option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to dent or scratch, and it's known to discolor with sun exposure. It’s also not suitable for areas with excess moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Carpet is the most affordable flooring option. It can make a space feel more comfortable and is great for muffling 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 moisture, stains, and odors, which isn't ideal for pet owners or allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a Grove City 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 most crucial thing to research about any flooring company is its reputation. Check review sites like Yelp, Google, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Trustpilot to see what previous clients have to say. Even the most reliable flooring installers will have both positive and negative reviews. Look for how a business handles complaints and interacts with others. If it strives for a satisfactory resolution and acts in good faith, that's an encouraging sign. However, if it's dismissive or has a high negative-to-positive review ratio, it's wise to avoid working with it.
Portfolio and References
Most flooring companies keep portfolios of their proudest projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can study the crew's workmanship. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Ask for their contact information so you can discuss their interactions and thoughts about the company.
Specialization and Services
Look for an installer that specializes in the type of flooring you're interested in. For example, a crew might be experienced with carpet but not hardwood. A contractor'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, companies can also offer refinishing services or design advisory.
Cost
Cost is important to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your selection 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
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. 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 needed. Request an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Express 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 Grove City
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Grove City?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Grove City?
Do Grove City flooring companies need to be licensed?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
What is the average timeline for flooring installation in Grove City?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.