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 options including oak, walnut, cherry, maple, 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 charm of hardwood without the extra maintenance. They use a plywood base with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately cutting your costs. While it's less likely to warp than true hardwood, it sounds more hollow to walk on and can't be refinished more than once.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is another budget-friendly 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's more susceptible to water damage and chipping.
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 strength and longevity depending on the model you buy. The cost of installing vinyl flooring sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
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 areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cold and sleek to walk on. Pricing depends on the material you pick, 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, granite, travertine, and sandstone. 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 various alternatives for customization. However, it can easily get dented or scratched and has been known to fade when exposed to the sun's rays. Direct sunlight also leads linoleum to lose color over time, and it might not work well for areas with excess moisture.
Carpet
Of all flooring options, carpet is one of the most affordable. It lends a homey feel to a room and absorbs noise effectively. Unlike hard floors, carpet eliminates 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 allergens.
How to Choose a St. George Flooring Company
Choosing the proper installer will impact your new floor's longevity. We recommend screening 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 Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Google to see what previous clients have to say. Even the best flooring installers will have both positive and negative reviews. Look for how a provider deals with 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 advisable to avoid working with it.
Portfolio and References
Most flooring contractors keep portfolios of their proudest projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can study the crew's craftsmanship. 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. An installer'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, installers can also offer hardwood refinishing or design consultations.
Cost
While price shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring company, it's still important to find one that matches your budget. We recommend getting quotes from three to five 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 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
Time management is essential for a successful flooring job. Before you agree to work with a company, request an estimated timeline and inquire about what delays could impact the project. If a company assures you it'll finish the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and state your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in St. George
How much will it cost to install a new floor in St. George?
What are some of the most popular types of flooring in St. George?
Do St. George flooring companies need to be licensed?
Is it cheaper to buy flooring online?
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, trim, and walls?
A St. George flooring installer can discuss all these considerations and more to help you make an informed decision.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.