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 maple, walnut, oak, cherry, and more, it can fit any design without sacrificing durability. However, it's among the priciest of flooring materials and requires consistent maintenance. 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 laundry rooms, bathrooms, or basements.
Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood gives you the charm of hardwood without the strict maintenance. They use a plywood substrate with a layer of real hardwood on top – ultimately saving you money. Despite the lower retail cost, it might sound more hollow to walk on, and the slender hardwood layer can only be refinished one time. That said, its lower propensity to warp could still make it an intelligent 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 defense against scratches and simplifies cleaning. However, it chips easily and is susceptible to moisture damage.
Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring has superior moisture and fading resistance and requires minimal upkeep. Popular options include luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT), with both having equal durability and long-lasting nature depending on the model you buy. Their price point sits comfortably between wood and laminate.
Tile Flooring
Tile flooring is another classy design that can endure for years. Like vinyl, it requires minimal maintenance and is simple to clean. As such, it's an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. However, it requires intensive prep work before installation and can be cool and sleek to walk on. Pricing relies on the material you choose, with porcelain being more expensive than ceramic.
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. Despite its unique flair, it's not easy to clean, and long-term maintenance could be a bit more expensive.
Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum is made from cork and linseed oil and can endure 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 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 homey and is great for absorbing sound. You don’t have to be concerned with scratches or dents, and the cushioning makes it a safer choice for kids. However, the fibrous material easily holds onto odors, moisture, and stains, which isn't ideal for pet owners or people with allergies.
How to Choose a Renton Flooring Company
Choosing the proper installer significantly affects your new floor's quality. 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, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), 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 business responds to complaints and interacts with others. If it works toward a satisfactory resolution and acts in good faith, that's a good 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 past projects. We recommend requesting a copy so you can study the crew's handiwork. It's also customary to ask for references from former customers. Once you have their contact information, get in touch and 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 dispose of your old flooring materials. However, companies can also offer hardwood refinishing or design assistance.
Cost
While price shouldn't be the most important factor when choosing a flooring provider, it's still important to find one that matches your budget. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to compare labor costs. You can do this fully online or by requesting complimentary on-site 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. Depending on the installer and flooring brand you pick, 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 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, request an estimated timeline and inquire about what hurdles could impact the project. If a company assures you it'll finish the job by a certain deadline, get that guarantee in writing and convey your expectations clearly as the work progresses.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flooring in Renton
How much will it cost to install a new floor in Renton?
See our guides to how much each flooring type typically costs:
What's the most popular flooring material in Renton?
What are the licensing laws for Renton flooring companies?
Who is the largest flooring manufacturer?
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 pair well with the walls, furniture, and trim?
A Renton 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.