9 Questions to Ask Your Flooring Installer Before Hiring

When it comes to flooring installations, making an informed decision is crucial.

This involves choosing a professional contractor who can deliver quality work and ensure safety standards, such as checking the radon level in your home.

In this blog post, we will discuss 9 essential questions you should ask your flooring installer before hiring them.

These questions cover a wide range of topics, from the acclimation process to moisture content, and will help you make the best choice for your home.

1. Is Your Installer Licensed and Insured?

The first question to ask is whether the installer has a license to do this kind of work. This information will tell you if your installer is trustworthy and has taken the necessary steps to conduct their business legally.

It also means that you can rest assured, knowing they will manage if something goes wrong.

2. What Kind of Warranty Does the Installer Offer for Their Work?

Hardwood flooring is a big investment, so make sure you choose an installer who will back up their work. Ask about the warranty they offer for their work.

This will give you peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with the installation, the installer will be responsible for fixing it.

3. Does Your Installer Have References and Positive Online Reviews?

Ask for references and call them! Do some research and search for your installer online on sites such as Yelp, Angie’s List, and Google reviews.

Look at the reviews as a whole – if the installer has 20+ positive reviews and only a few negative ones, that is a normal record.

However, if the installer has 7 reviews 4 of which are negative, this is cause for concern and you might want to look at other installers.

4. How Will They Contain Dust and Handle Clean-Up?

Prepping a room for new flooring and the actual installation can create quite a mess. Ask your installer how they plan to contain dust and handle clean-up.

This will give you an idea of how considerate they are of your home and your comfort during the installation process.

5. WHAT IS THE ACCLIMATION PROCESS FOR THE FLOORING MATERIAL?

The acclimation process is a crucial step in flooring installation. It involves adjusting the flooring material to the environment in which it will be installed.

Ask your installer about their acclimation process and how they plan to ensure that the flooring material is properly adjusted to your home's conditions.

6. HOW DO THEY MEASURE AND RECORD THE MOISTURE CONTENT?

The moisture content of the flooring material and the environment is an important factor in flooring installation. Most manufacturers require this information if there are any problems with the flooring.

Lack of records in this area may void your warranty. Ask your installer how they measure and record the moisture content.

7. WHAT RANGE OF FLOORING INSTALLATIONS DO THEY SPECIALIZE IN?

Flooring installers may specialize in a wide range of installations, from hardwood to laminate to tile. Ask your installer about their specialties and make sure they have experience with the type of flooring you want to install.

8. DO THEY HAVE EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS OR PUBLIC HEALTH AUTHORITIES?

If you have specific health concerns, such as allergies or respiratory issues, it may be beneficial to work with an installer who has experience working with health care providers or public health authorities.

They can ensure that the installation process and materials used are safe for your health.

9. WHAT ARE THEIR INFECTION CONTROL PRACTICES?

In the era of COVID-19, it's important to ask about the installer's infection control practices. They should follow the guidelines set by health and human services and the public health department to ensure the safety of their clients.

By asking these questions, you can make an informed decision and choose a professional flooring installer who will meet your needs and expectations. 

Remember, the goal is not just to have a beautiful floor, but also to ensure that the installation process is smooth, safe, and satisfactory.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY FLOORING INSTALLER IS TRUSTWORTHY?

Determining if a flooring installer is trustworthy involves a few key steps:

1. Check their Credentials: Ensure they are licensed and insured to perform the work. This not only indicates professionalism but also protects you in case of any mishaps during the installation.

2. Ask for References: A reputable installer should be able to provide references from previous clients. You can contact these references to ask about their experiences.

3. Read Online Reviews: Look for reviews on platforms like Yelp, Angie’s List, and Google. While every business may have some negative reviews, a predominance of positive feedback is a good sign.

4. Inquire about their Experience: Find out how long they’ve been in the business and what types of flooring installations they specialize in.

5. Ask about Warranties: A trustworthy installer will stand by their work and offer a warranty.

6. Health and Safety Measures: Especially in the era of COVID-19, it’s important to ask about the installer’s infection control practices.

Remember, communication is key. A reliable professional will be open to answering your questions and addressing your concerns. If something feels off or you’re not getting the information you need, it might be best to consider other options.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO INSTALL NEW FLOORS?

The time it takes to install new floors can vary greatly depending on the type of flooring and the size of the area. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Tile Flooring: For tile flooring, professionals recommend allowing a minimum of 12 hours for the adhesive to dry. However, 24 hours of drying time is considered ideal.

2. Hardwood, Vinyl, Carpet, or Laminate Flooring: The installation time for these types of flooring can vary. Once installed, you may need to wait a certain period before you can walk on them.

3. Preparation Time: Before the actual installation, there’s also the time needed for preparation. This includes removing the old flooring, preparing the subfloor, and acclimating the new flooring material.

Remember, these are just estimates. The actual time can vary based on factors like the complexity of the installation, the condition of your subfloor, and the specific products being used. Always consult with your flooring professional to get the most accurate timeline.

CHOOSE EASY STEP FLOORING FOR YOUR CLEANING SERVICES

For top-notch flooring installations, consider Easy Step Flooring. With a wide range of options and a team of professional flooring installers, Easy Step Flooring can help you transform your home with beautiful, high-quality floors.