Popular Types of Flooring
Whether you're looking for something lively and bold or subtle and elegant, there's a floor for you. Discover the most essential details about each type to guide your decision making.
Hardwood Flooring
Homebuyers across Pasadena seek out hardwood flooring for its beauty and durability. It's available in several varieties to accommodate different designs, from maple and oak to cherry and walnut. However, it's among the priciest of flooring materials and requires significant upkeep. 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 bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the aesthetic 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 sounds more hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate floors come in wood and tile finishes, but they all have a particle board base. A strong plastic coating gives them resilience against scratches and simplifies cleaning. However, it's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.
Vinyl Flooring
Maintenance with vinyl floors is a breeze. You can purchase them in luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) styles, with each option equally strong. They also come at a reasonable price point, somewhere between laminate and engineered wood.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another timeless-looking, robust option. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is simple to clean. As such, it's perfect for moisture-prone spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. However, it might not work well for bedrooms and living rooms since it's colder and more slippery to walk on. Pricing fluctuates between styles, with porcelain carrying a higher price tag than ceramic.
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
With proper maintenance, linoleum floors can last for decades. It is a budget-friendly choice with many possibilities for customization. However, it can readily become damaged and has been known to fade when exposed to direct sunlight. The sun's rays also lead linoleum to fade over time, and it may not be suitable for areas with excess moisture.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a cozy 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 considerable effort to keep clean, especially if you have pets. The fibrous material holds onto stains, dampness, smells, and pollen, making it less suitable for allergy sufferers.
How to Choose a Pasadena 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Trustpilot, and Google to see what previous clients have to say. Every flooring installer will have a mix of positive and negative feedback online. If a company resolves complaints in an amicable and satisfactory way, it's generally a good sign. However, if you find more negative reviews than positive ones, it's better to steer clear.
Portfolio and References
A reputable flooring company will be excited to show you portfolios of its previous work. Take a careful look at each listed project and ask questions as you have them. Portfolios might also include references from past customers. Don't hesitate to request their contact information so you can discuss their interactions 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 a provider'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, style, and material choices, you can also look for companies with design teams.
Cost
While cost shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring installer, it's still important to find one that honors your budget. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies to compare labor costs. 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. While some 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 work to last longer than necessary. Request an estimated timeline up-front and ask about potential delays. Communicate your expectations clearly and secure any guarantees in writing.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Pasadena
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Pasadena?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in Pasadena?
What are the licensing laws for Pasadena flooring companies?
How do I decide which flooring material is right?
Just as well, consider the nature of the space itself. Is it exposed to moisture or high foot traffic? What look would go best with the furniture, walls, and trim?
A Pasadena flooring installer can discuss all these considerations and more to help you make an informed decision.
What eco-friendly flooring options are available in Pasadena?
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