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, cherry, maple, 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 wood cleaners. The more time you invest in maintenance, the longer your floors will last.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the beauty of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood foundation with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. Despite the lower retail cost, it might feel more hollow to walk on, and the slender hardwood layer can only be refinished once. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it a sound investment.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate floors come in tile and wood finishes, but they all have a particle board base. A strong plastic coating gives them scratch resistance and simplifies cleaning. However, it chips easily and is susceptible to moisture damage.
Vinyl Flooring
Maintenance with vinyl floors is as simple as it gets. You can purchase them in luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) styles, with each option equally resilient. They also come at an affordable 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 an ideal choice for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it might not work well for living rooms and bedrooms since it's colder and less grippy to walk on. Pricing varies between styles, with ceramic less expensive than porcelain.
Stone Flooring
Granite, marble, sandstone, and travertine 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 last for many years if cared for properly. It’s an economical option with many design possibilities. However, the softer material is easier to dent or scratch, and it's known to discolor with sunlight 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 homey 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 young children. 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 Provo Flooring Company
Choosing the right installer significantly affects your new floor's longevity. We recommend assessing different companies using 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 Google, Yelp, Trustpilot, 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 handles negative feedback in a constructive 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
A good flooring company will be excited to show you portfolios of its previous work. Take a good look at each listed project and ask questions as you have them. It's also good practice to ask for references from former customers. Once you have their contact information, reach out to ask about their experiences.
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 tile. 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, businesses can also offer hardwood refinishing or design advisory.
Cost
Cost is key to consider, but it should be less important than quality in your decision-making process. We recommend getting three to five 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 protection could be limited to a fixed term. Other times, it lasts for the life of the floor. Ask a company about its warranty terms, including extensions that could give you longer coverage.
Estimated Timeline
Time management is critical for a successful flooring job. Before you sign a contract, request an estimated timeline and inquire about what issues could impact the project. If a company promises to finish 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 Provo
What are the best flooring installation prices?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Provo?
Do Provo flooring companies need to be licensed?
What is the average timeline for flooring installation in Provo?
What are the telltale signs I need to replace my floor?
- Uncontrollable mildew or mold growth
- Holes, scratches, or dents
- Increasing space between tiles or planks
- Spots that feel loose or unstable
- Water damage
- Heightened squeakiness
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.