Flooring Contractors

How to Hire a Flooring Contractor

Flooring contractors install and refinish hardwood, engineered wood, luxury vinyl plank, laminate, tile, carpet and other surfaces. The finish you see depends on the subfloor you do not: flatness, moisture levels and proper underlayment decide whether floors stay quiet and tight. Hire one when floors are worn, damaged, squeaking or when you are remodeling.

What to check before you hire

• Ask how they will check the subfloor for flatness and moisture before installing, especially over concrete slabs.
• Confirm the installation will follow the manufacturer requirements so the product warranty remains valid.
• Ask whether removal and disposal of the old flooring is included, and how they handle baseboards and door casings.
• For older homes, ask how they test and handle old flooring or adhesive that could contain asbestos before tearing it out.
• Look at finished jobs with the same material you are choosing, since tile, hardwood and vinyl require different skills.

Questions to ask every contractor

• Does this material need to acclimate in the house before installation, and for how long?
• What underlayment or moisture barrier will you use?
• How will transitions between rooms and different floor heights be handled?
• How long before we can walk on it and move furniture back?

Frequently asked questions

Can new flooring go over my old floor?

Sometimes. Floating floors can go over some existing surfaces if they are flat and solid, but adding height affects doors, transitions and appliances. Your installer should inspect before recommending it.

Refinish or replace hardwood?

Solid hardwood can usually be sanded and refinished several times. If boards are cupped, water-damaged or the wear layer on engineered wood is too thin, replacement may be the better option.

What flooring is best for kitchens and bathrooms?

Water-resistant materials such as tile and many vinyl products handle moisture well. Solid hardwood is less forgiving of standing water, so many homeowners choose other options for wet areas.