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Questions to Ask When Hiring Flooring Services

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:15:01 GMT

Choosing the right provider is a critical decision that can significantly impact your home's appearance, functionality, comfort, and long-term value. Whether you are replacing worn flooring, remodeling a single room, or upgrading an entire home, selecting professional flooring services is one of the most important parts of the process. The quality of the materials and workmanship can affect durability, maintenance requirements, and overall satisfaction for years to come. Taking time to research providers and ask the right questions helps homeowners avoid costly mistakes while ensuring the finished project meets both aesthetic and practical goals.

Many homeowners focus primarily on pricing when selecting a contractor, but there are numerous other factors that deserve attention. Experience, certifications, warranties, communication practices, installation procedures, and customer support all play a role in determining project success. Understanding these factors allows you to compare providers more effectively and make informed decisions. By asking detailed questions before signing a contract, you can select flooring services that align with your expectations and deliver lasting value.

1. Experience and Industry Knowledge

One of the first questions to ask involves the company's experience. Understanding how long a contractor has been in business provides insight into reliability, stability, and expertise. Companies with extensive experience have often encountered a wide range of installation scenarios and developed solutions for common challenges. Their history demonstrates an ability to adapt to changing products, technologies, and customer expectations.

Ask whether the contractor has completed projects similar to yours. A provider experienced with hardwood may not necessarily specialize in luxury vinyl plank or ceramic tile installations. Choosing flooring services with direct experience in your preferred material can contribute to better workmanship and more efficient project completion.

2. Certifications and Professional Training

Professional certifications demonstrate a commitment to industry standards and continuing education. Contractors who participate in manufacturer training programs are often more familiar with proper installation methods, product specifications, and warranty requirements. These certifications can provide reassurance that installers understand current best practices.

Training is especially important as flooring products continue to evolve. Waterproof flooring technologies, advanced installation systems, and environmentally friendly materials require specialized knowledge. Contractors who invest in ongoing education are often better equipped to recommend products that suit your home's specific needs.

3. Project Portfolio and References

Reviewing previous work is one of the most effective ways to evaluate a contractor's capabilities. Ask to see photographs of completed projects that showcase different flooring materials, room types, and design styles. A diverse portfolio demonstrates versatility and attention to detail.

References provide valuable insight into customer satisfaction. Former clients can share information about communication, cleanliness, timeliness, and overall project quality. In an era where 5% of realtors claim that refinishing hardwood helped close a sale, and 27% recommend it before listing, selecting a contractor with strong customer feedback becomes even more important for homeowners seeking to protect property value.

4. Material Selection and Product Quality

Different flooring materials offer unique advantages and limitations. Hardwood provides timeless appeal, while luxury vinyl offers moisture resistance and easy maintenance. Tile excels in bathrooms and kitchens, while carpet adds warmth and comfort to living spaces. Understanding these differences helps narrow your choices.

Quality should always be a primary consideration. Ask about wear layers, scratch resistance, moisture protection, maintenance requirements, and expected lifespan. Reputable flooring services should explain the strengths and weaknesses of each product and recommend options that align with your lifestyle and budget. For example, according to Forbes, carpet flooring can last an average of 10 years when well cared for, making proper product selection and maintenance guidance important factors when evaluating long-term value.

5. Eco-Friendly Flooring Options

Sustainability is becoming a priority for many homeowners. Ask whether the company offers environmentally responsible products such as bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, or recycled-content flooring. These materials often reduce environmental impact while maintaining excellent performance.

Eco-friendly flooring can also contribute to healthier indoor air quality. Many sustainable products are manufactured with low volatile organic compound emissions, helping create a safer living environment for families and pets. Understanding available options allows you to balance environmental responsibility with design preferences.

6. Warranties and Service Guarantees

Warranties provide protection against manufacturing defects and installation issues. Ask whether warranties are provided by the manufacturer, the installer, or both. Understanding coverage limitations and exclusions helps prevent misunderstandings if issues arise in the future.

Service guarantees can also indicate confidence in workmanship. Companies willing to stand behind their installations often demonstrate a stronger commitment to customer satisfaction. Before hiring flooring services, request written documentation outlining warranty terms and guarantee conditions.

7. Pre-Installation Assessment

Every successful flooring project begins with proper preparation. Ask what evaluations will occur before installation starts. This may include moisture testing, subfloor inspections, room measurements, and structural assessments. These steps help identify concerns before they become costly problems.

Proper preparation can improve flooring performance and longevity. Uneven surfaces, excessive moisture, or damaged subfloors may affect installation quality if not addressed beforehand. Thorough assessments allow contractors to develop accurate project plans and realistic timelines.

8. Installation Timeline and Scheduling

Understanding the installation schedule allows homeowners to plan accordingly. Ask for a realistic timeline that includes preparation, installation, cleanup, and final inspection. Knowing what to expect can minimize disruptions to your daily routine.

Professional flooring services should explain how they handle unforeseen delays, material shortages, or weather-related complications. Clear scheduling expectations reduce frustration and help maintain effective communication throughout the project.

9. Installation Team Qualifications

The quality of installation directly affects flooring performance and appearance. Ask whether installers are employees or subcontractors and what qualifications they possess. Experienced installers are more likely to identify potential issues and implement proper solutions.

Training, certifications, and years of experience contribute significantly to installation quality. Skilled professionals understand manufacturer guidelines and can properly address transitions, patterns, seams, and finishing details. Their expertise helps reduce the likelihood of future repairs.

10. Project Management and Communication

Effective communication is essential during any renovation project. Ask who will serve as your primary point of contact and how updates will be provided. Consistent communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures concerns are addressed promptly.

A dedicated project manager can coordinate schedules, manage crews, oversee material deliveries, and resolve issues efficiently. Strong project management often leads to smoother operations and a more positive overall experience for homeowners.

11. Pricing Transparency and Payment Terms

Request a detailed written estimate that separates material costs, labor charges, disposal fees, preparation work, and any additional services. Transparent pricing helps you compare contractors accurately and avoid surprises after work begins.

Discuss payment schedules before signing a contract. Some companies require deposits, while others use milestone-based payments. Understanding payment expectations allows you to budget effectively and avoid financial misunderstandings during the project.

12. Hidden Costs and Financing Options

Unexpected costs can arise during flooring projects, especially if hidden damage or structural issues are discovered. Ask what circumstances could increase costs and how change orders are handled. Reputable contractors should communicate these possibilities clearly.

If financing is available, review all terms carefully. Flexible payment plans can make larger projects more manageable, but homeowners should understand interest rates, fees, and repayment obligations before committing.

13. Safety and Insurance Coverage

Safety should never be overlooked during a flooring project. Ask whether the company follows local building codes and industry safety standards. Proper safety practices protect workers, homeowners, and property throughout installation.

Insurance coverage is equally important. Verify that the company carries liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. These protections can help shield homeowners from financial responsibility if accidents occur during the project.

Taking time to ask detailed questions helps ensure a successful project that enhances your home's beauty, functionality, and value. A well-informed decision can provide lasting satisfaction and flooring that performs beautifully for many years. Contact Excellent Floors today to get connected with our flooring services .

Your Guide to Hardwood Refinishing

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 16:45:14 GMT

Hardwood floors are a timeless and elegant choice for any home. However, over time, they can become scratched, dull, or discolored. Refinishing your hardwood can breathe new life into your floors, making them look as good as new. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of hardwood refinishing and provide tips to help you successfully revitalize your floors.

Enhancing Your Home’s Aesthetics

One of the primary benefits of hardwood refinishing is the enhancement of your home's aesthetics. A well-refinished floor can transform a room, adding warmth and character. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or simply looking to update your living space, refinishing can significantly improve the appearance of your floors. This process not only removes surface damage but also allows you to change the stain color, aligning it with your updated decor style.

Understanding Financial Benefits of Refinishing

Refinishing your floors isn’t just about aesthetics; it's also a smart financial decision. According to industry data, 27% of Realtors have suggested that sellers refinish their hardwood before listing their homes, and 5% say that doing so has helped close a sale. This indicates that a simple refinishing job can not only boost your home’s market appeal but might also enhance its resale value. It’s worth considering this affordable upgrade if you intend to put your property on the market.

Considering Environmental Advantages of Refinishing

Refinishing hardwood is also an environmentally sustainable option compared to replacing your flooring. Instead of contributing to landfill waste and consuming new materials, refinishing uses your existing floors. This green alternative reduces the carbon footprint associated with flooring replacement. Additionally, by maintaining your floors with regular refinishing, you can significantly extend their lifecycle, ensuring they remain a beautiful fixture in your home for years to come.

Refinishing your hardwood floors offers numerous benefits, from enhancing the beauty of your home to providing a potential increase in property value. Whether you’re selling your house or updating its interior, refinishing is an economical and environmentally friendly choice. Remember to plan the refinishing project carefully and, if needed, consult with professionals to achieve the best results. With the right approach, your hardwood floors will look majestic and continue to bring elegance to your home for many more years. Looking for hardwood refinishing services? Give Excellent Floors a call today.

How a Flooring Company Can Help You Achieve Your Dream Home

Tue, 28 May 2024 11:46:10 GMT

There are so many different projects homeowners can invest in to improve their homes. Flooring is a crucial aspect of your home that can affect you and your family in many ways. Let’s look at how hiring a local flooring company can help you achieve your dream home!

Improved Appearance

The floors in your home are under a lot of stress and traffic each day, which can cause wear over time. If your flooring has started to look worn and shabby, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Unattractive flooring can change the way you feel about your home. New floors will give every room a clean and fresh look.

Choosing new flooring can be exciting, as there are so many different types, styles, and patterns to consider. Wood floors continue to be a popular choice. In fact, according to the National Wood Flooring Association, about 66% of homeowners say their dream home has wood floors. Enjoy the process of choosing your new flooring as you make your dream home a reality.

Increased Home Value

When you have new floors installed, your home value will increase. Choose high-quality flooring and have it professionally installed to see that value reflected when you sell your property down the road. Any prospective buyers will be impressed by the beautiful flooring.

Renewed Lifespan

Flooring has a lifespan that’s based on the amount of traffic in your home and the quality of the chosen material. When you have new flooring installed, the lifespan starts over. With refinishing services performed by a professional flooring company every so often, you won’t have to worry about brand-new flooring again for many years!

Enhanced Air Quality

This isn’t usually a benefit that comes to mind when talking about new flooring, but having old flooring removed and new flooring installed will have a positive effect on the air quality in your home. As flooring ages, it begins to deteriorate. This sends tiny particles into the air and ultimately into your lungs.

These are just a few reasons to consider hiring a flooring company as you plan the home of your dreams. Our team at Excellent Floors has decades of experience refinishing and installing brand-new floors in homes like yours. Contact us today to learn more!

4 Reasons to Choose Hardwood Flooring Over Carpeting

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 18:02:29 GMT

Every home should have attractive and useful flooring that gives the owners a good return on their investment. Yet, most people opt for carpeting, which wears out after a few years. According to the National Wood Flooring Association, 75% of homes have carpeting and 58% have tile. If you are considering flooring options, here are four reasons why you should choose hardwood flooring over carpeting.

1. Hardwood Is Durable

The single biggest reason to get hardwood flooring is its durability. A properly installed hardwood floor can last as long as your home is standing. You can choose from a variety of hardwoods, including from trees that are grown and harvested locally. Locally sourced wood should cost less than imported timber or other wood that was harvested several states away and shipped to your location.

2. Hardwood Is Easy to Maintain

Maintaining a hardwood floor is a lot easier than maintaining carpeting. You just need to use a dust mop or broom to sweep up any debris. You also can polish the wood once or twice a year or hire a flooring service to do it and make the floors look shiny and new. Even minor scratches would be polished out while restoring the wood's natural luster. Clean and shiny hardwood flooring is very attractive and gives your home a much more natural feel.

3. Hardwood Is Repairable

Accidents happen that can damage hardwood flooring and carpeting. You might drop something heavy onto the floor that damages some of its wood. You also might spill something that could stain it if you don't clean it up as soon as possible. Cleaning carpeting is a lot harder than cleaning up a spill on well-maintained wooden flooring. In our experience, wood is less permeable and less likely to stain than carpeting. You might have to rent special equipment or hire a flooring service to clean or replace stained carpeting.

4. Carpeting Holds Debris and Pests

Another big advantage of hardwood flooring is that it does not give dirt or pests a place to hide. The fibers in carpeting hold dirt and enable pests to hide near the bottom. Regular vacuuming can help clean up the dirt and get rid of pests like fleas and cockroaches, but many will stay hidden away deep inside the carpet fibers. Hardwood flooring doesn't give them any cover.

Have questions? Call Excellent Floors to learn more about the benefits of hardwood flooring versus carpeting. You can schedule flooring services from our experienced technicians.

5 Benefits of Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

Fri, 19 May 2023 14:23:55 GMT

Hardwood floors are extremely popular with homeowners. According to a National Wood Flooring Association survey, approximately 52% of respondents have hardwood floors. Keep reading to discover more about the benefits of wood floors and why you should choose this type of flooring for your home.

1. They're Visually Appealing

Many homeowners are drawn to wood floors because of their appearance. Hardwood floors are timeless and work well with all decor styles, including modern furnishings and more eclectic pieces. Since people love wood floors, installing new floors could even boost the value of your house.

2. They're Easy to Care For

Some materials are difficult to clean, but it's easy to keep hardwood floors in excellent shape. As long as you sweep your floors regularly, they'll look fantastic. If your floors look dull, you can also use a wood cleaner to make them shine. It's a low-maintenance flooring material that will look fantastic for decades!

3. They're Resilient

Hardwood floors can last a lifetime with the proper care. You can even remove scratches and other signs of damage by having your floors refinished. Hardwood is an excellent choice if you're looking for a durable, long-lasting flooring material that you won't have to replace. Applying a protective coating to your floors is also a way to keep them in like-new condition.

4. There Are Lots of Options

Several types of wood are used for flooring, including maple, oak, and cherry. Since several varieties are available, you can choose a material that will look stunning in your home. You can even alter the look of your floors by applying a stain. It's a customizable solution that you can adapt to suit your needs.

5. They Offer Advantages Over Other Flooring Materials

Carpeting feels soft beneath your feet, but it collects allergens, like dust and dander, which can negatively affect your home's air quality. Vinyl floors are an inexpensive option, but they're challenging to repair. These issues are frustrating, but you won't have to deal with them if you opt for wood floors. If you install hardwood floors in your house, you can avoid common problems and enjoy your stunning new floors!

Hardwood floors offer notable advantages over other varieties of flooring . If you're preparing to install new floors in your home, give hardwood a closer look. You'll surely be impressed by all the benefits hardwood can provide! Contact us at Excellent Floors to learn more about wood floors!

Why You Need to Hire a Hardwood Refinishing Service

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 14:43:34 GMT

Hardwood floors offer beauty and functionality to your home, and refinishing them can transform your entire space. Working with a hardwood refinishing service is important if you want to get professional results. There are a lot of risks when it comes to refinishing hardwood floors that most homeowners are not willing to take. Read on to learn why a hardwood refinishing service could be the right answer for you.

They Have the Right Equipment

To get a professional-looking finish, you must have the right equipment. You also need to know how to properly operate the equipment. Misuse of these tools can leave your floors permanently damaged. Flooring experts not only have industry-grade equipment, but they also have the proper training to operate these tools and achieve amazing results. The right service comes fully prepared to restore your floors.

They Save You Time and Money

According to the National Association of Realtors, refinishing your hardwood floors offers a 147% return on investment, compared to 118% for new hardwood floors. A hardwood refinishing service can easily restore hardwood floors to their former glory and help you increase the value of your home. You can save a bundle by keeping the floors you have instead of replacing them.

In this day of DIY everything, a lot of homeowners take on projects they are not equipped to manage. Refinishing hardwood floors can be time-consuming unless you choose a professional service. A DIY hardwood floor refinishing project can easily waste quite a few weekends, not to mention the cost of renting the equipment you'll need. Going with a professional service will save you time and money.

They Achieve the Best Results

When you hire a professional to manage your hardwood floor restoration, you can rest assured that the project will be done right. A professional won't take shortcuts that could compromise the quality of the finished project. Professionals have the expertise to manage obstacles as they come up and the experience to know what it takes to create a high-quality product.

Revitalize your hardwood floors and enjoy all the benefits that this project can bring to your home by hiring a hardwood refinishing service. Call our team at Excellent Floors to get started today. We would love to assist you!

What to Expect During Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 14:28:11 GMT

Flooring work is a worthwhile investment, especially floors that have lasted long. According to the Motley Fool, the average cost recovery for hardwood floor finish is about 100% which implies that you will get back whatever amount you spend on refinishing the floor whenever you resell the house.

Refinishing planks is one of the best methods of improving how older hardwood floors look. This procedure helps remove older finishes, thus making it compatible with any finish applied. Here are five things to consider when refinishing your floors.

Preparing the Floor for Refinishing

When you decide to refinish your house floors, you should begin preparing the floor for the finishing. While this task is handled by the experts, before they get to the site, you should move the furniture around and pull up the carpets so that they can start working. The refinishers begin by hammering down nails and checking if there are loose boards. After that, a comprehensive cleaning will be carried out to remove all dust traces.

Floor Sanding

Another critical aspect of hardwood floor refinishing is the sanding of the wood. This process helps remove scratches and stains. During this stage, great precautions such as wearing safety goggles, masks, and full sleeve suits are employed for total safety while working on the site.

Floor Screening

A buffer and a fine-grit screening pad help level up all unevenness in this stage. This helps the tabletop achieve total smoothness so that the polyurethane can blend well with the surface.

Dust Removal

For your hardwood floor refinishing to be perfect, you must engage in rigorous vacuuming and sweeping to ensure the floors are well cleaned. Different measures are usually taken in this step, such as shutting the windows and doors to prevent dust inflow.

Application of Finishes

Finally, you will need to apply a protective coat of wood finish to give your wooden floors the needed protection. There are several finishes available in the market that you can use to make your floors look as new as possible. As soon as the finishing dries up, you can put the furniture in place, but do not drag it on newly refurbished floors.

In summary, keeping your house in top shape will determine its overall value. Hardwood floor refinishing is one of the smartest ways to increase the overall value of your home while giving it the new and exciting touch it deserves.

5 Signs You Need to Refinish Your Hardwood Floors

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:13:29 GMT

It's official! Carpet is out and hardwood floors are in. However, homeowners should know that the quality of their hardwood floors matters, too. If you're looking at the wooden floors in your home and wondering if now is the time to embark on hardwood refinishing , you've come to the right place. Here are five signs you need to refinish those beautiful hardwood floors!

Scratches Everywhere

Is there a favorite desk chair that is constantly being moved out from under its accompanying desk? Chances are there are also scuff marks or scratches that outline the exact pattern of movement that the chair has made on your hardwood floors. If you notice many areas of scratches or grooves on your floors, it's probably time to consider hardwood refinishing.

Loss of Luster

Have you noticed that your floors don't seem to shine as brightly as they used to? Hardwood floors should have a glean, or luster, to them that tends to fade away with sunlight and time. In areas of your home that receive a lot of sun, it's common to find that the wood is a little duller there as well. If you're seeing this in your home, it's definitely time to start the hardwood refinishing process.

Water Damage

You've probably heard how bad it is to let spilled liquids soak into wood floors. This is a legitimate worry for those who have hardwood floors. If your floors have water damage, it is really important to refinish your floors before the problem becomes worse. If you don't take care of this problem, it can become a very expensive problem down the road.

Greying Boards

If you notice that some boards in your house appear to have turned grey, this means that the polyurethane, of the varnish used to protect the floors, is now wearing off. Without this protection, your hardwood floors run the risk of absorbing liquids that could permanently damage your floors, to the point where they have to be replaced. Save yourself from an expensive project by investing in hardwood refinishing as soon as possible.

Boards That Have Blackened

You may not have noticed that some of your flooring was turning grey and, consequently, now you're noticing that areas of your wooden floors are now black. This is a sign that you will either have to invest in staining the rest of your floors to match the blackened boards, or you will need to replace the blackened boards entirely. This is why it's super important to notice the signs you need to refinish your floors before it's too late, and they require replacement.

Hardwood Refinishing is Important

Deciding to begin the process of hardwood refinishing not only helps protect your floors from damage and aging, it can also be a sound investment in the equity of your home. In fact, according to Millionacres.com, 27% of realtors suggest to their clients that they refinish their hardwood floors before listing their homes, and 5% say that doing so actually helps close a sale. People are attracted to homes with flooring that has a beautiful sheen to them that really accentuates the beauty of the wood. Don't wait until it's too late to refinish your floors!