Popular Types of Flooring
Flooring varies greatly in price and design. Here's what to know about each type.
Hardwood Flooring
The appeal of hardwood floors stands the test of time. With options including oak, maple, cherry, walnut, and more, it can fit any design without sacrificing durability. Despite its charm, hardwood comes with a higher price tag. You also need to follow 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 gives you the aesthetic of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood foundation with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. While it's more resistant to warping versus true hardwood, it sounds more 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 scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and available in countless different styles and colors. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring has superior moisture 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 another timeless-looking, robust option. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean. As such, it's an excellent choice for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and slippery to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you select, 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
Linoleum is made from cork and linseed oil and can last for decades if maintained 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 sun exposure. It’s also not suitable for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a homey feel to a room and muffles 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 retains stains, dampness, smells, and pollen, making it less suitable for allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a League City Flooring Company
Choosing a floor installer is just as significant 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 Trustpilot, Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring contractor will have a mix of positive and negative feedback online. If a company addresses issues 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 avoid working with it.
Portfolio and References
Most floor installers keep portfolios of their past projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can look over the crew's craftsmanship. It's also good practice to ask for references from previous customers. Once you have their contact information, reach out 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 refinishing services or design consultations.
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 streamline 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. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you select, warranty coverage could be limited to a fixed term. In other instances, it lasts 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 hurdles could impact the project. If a company commits to finishing the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and communicate your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in League City
How much will it cost to install a new floor in League City?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in League City?
Do League City flooring companies need to be licensed?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
How long does it usually take to install a floor in League City?
- The model and material of floor
- The size of your space
- Your installer's experience
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