Here are 10 things to consider when making your flooring decision.
Keep in mind that we will help you make the right choice!
Select Your Flooring Company with Extreme Care. Would you allow just anybody in your home? You should be able to depend on your flooring company’s counsel and advice when selecting your carpet. Make sure that you choose a company wisely and only allow people in your home who you know and trust.
Determine Flooring Usage. How and where will the flooring be used? What is the foot traffic like (e.g., pets, kids, weather)? Are you stopping the dirt from entering your house? Does the flooring need to be stain resistant? What about stain proof pad? Are moisture-proof flooring products important? Do you have other climate concerns (e.g., acclimation of hardwood)? Are pet-proof products appropriate? Make sure you work with a company that can help you forecast traffic patterns and flooring usage.
Research Materials. Each material and style offers different advantages and disadvantages. What are your aesthetic concerns? Are you leaning toward carpet, hardwood, or ceramic flooring? What fibers and textures? What color do you want, and what are the potential consequences of that color choice? Be sure to take home a carpet or flooring sample and evaluate it in relation to your room and light. If you are a property manager, make sure your flooring company has the knowledge and experience to provide recommendations that help you earn LEED credits.
Set Performance Expectations. How long does your flooring need to last? Do you own? Rent? Live in the property? Plan to sell it? Make sure the quality of construction matches your specific performance needs.
Plan Your Budget. Work with your flooring company to estimate your costs and your return on investment. (Be wary of companies and ads that offer fantastic bargains. If the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.)
Create a Furniture Moving Plan. Have you thought about how and where you will move your furniture (including big pieces like pool tables and pianos?)? What are your logistical considerations, and how can your flooring company help you manage those logistics?
Review Contracts Carefully Before Signing. Make sure brand name, manufacturer’s name, style, and color are specified on the contract, and ensure any agreements appear in writing (e.g., any charges for delivery or removal of old carpet).
Remember, Timing Is Everything! The more unique, less mass produced your product choice is will influence timing. Most manufacturers need 3-6 weeks to produce and ship materials. Make sure your flooring company communicates with you every step of the way.
Manage Multipart Projects. What schedule for completion works best for you? Are you also working with other trades (e.g., painting, electrical work, or ceiling work)? Work collaboratively with your flooring company to manage project sequencing.
Flooring Maintenance. How can you best protect your investment and best maintain your floors with proper care and cleaning throughout their life? Your flooring expert should have suggestions in this regard and ideally should be able to help you manage long-term care and cleaning efforts.
