Choosing the best type of floor for your home is only the first step in floor installation; the next and most important step is getting the right installer. If you hire unqualified floor installers, they might end up messing up the entire project.
Regardless of the type of flooring that you want to install in your home, it is important that you only get qualified professionals to install the floor. This way, you can be sure that the job will be done correctly and that your floors look great.
If you are thinking about calling in expert floor installers, here are a few things you should look into so that you can only hire the best.
Experience
You need to consider the installer’s years of experience and their reputation before you can hire them. Do not forget to check if they are experienced with installing the type of floor that you want. You may also want to confirm if they are residential or commercial flooring installers.
Ask for references from the installer’s previous clients so that they can share their experiences with you. When checking for reviews online, do not only rely on the company’s website. Get reviews from sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and Angie’s List.
If you come across some negative reviews, check out the validity of the complaints and how the installer handled them. If the installer has more negative reviews than positive, it may be an indication that they are not experienced enough and therefore do not offer quality services.
Time Frame
If you need your floors to be installed within a specific timeframe, you may want to confirm if the installer you are hiring can work within that time frame. While floors like laminate flooring can be installed and used in the blink of an eye, hardwood flooring needs some time to acclimate.
Acclimation is a very important step when installing hardwood floors. Inadequate or wrong acclimation will lead to gapping, and this will cause buckling and lasting damage to the floor. The installer you hire should ensure that they do not skip this crucial step even if they have to work within your time frame.
Know Their Process
You need to get all the details about everything that you should expect or are expected to do during the installation process. For example, the installers might need you to move your furniture before they can work on your floors. Therefore, you will need to get movers and rent a storage facility if you do not have a place to store them in your home.
You also have to know who your point of contact will be so that you know who will update you and who you will talk to in case of any changes.
Do not forget to find out if they will seal off rooms with plastic. Knowing how the installers work will help you determine if they are fit to handle the job and get prepared for the project.
License and Insurance
You can tell if an installer is genuine and trustworthy if they have taken time to ensure that their business is legally registered and licensed. During the installation process, there are a few things that can go wrong; an employee can sustain an injury while in your property, they can accidentally burst a pipe and more.
In as much as accidents are rare, they can happen, and when they do, it would be good if the contractor has insurance that covers all that.
Check If They Are NWFA Certified
The installer you hire should be a member of the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). This body certifies qualified installers.
When you hire an installer that is recognized by this body, you can be sure that they will handle the project with expertise and cannot breach the contract.
NFWA installers also take part in regular training to advance their skills. This also equips them with the latest technology in floor installation.
Warranty
Before you hire an installer, you may want to check the type of warranties that they offer. Several flooring manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. However, you should also confirm if the installer offers a warranty for the installation process.
Working with an installer who offers a warranty means that they will take responsibility for any mistakes they make during the installation process. Your investment is safer with a warranty.
Will They Handle Clean-Up?
Floor installation does not have to be a messy process, especially if you hire professionals. When prepping a room for a new floor, the right installers will protect your large appliances, window furnishings, light fixtures, and all.
Know how the installers will handle your house, how they will contain dust, and if they will clean up after the process.
Cost
If you are working with a budget, you need to ensure that the installer is able to work within it. Know the costs involved, the payment schedule, the payment due date, and how much you should pay upfront.
The right installer will also let you know if you should be prepared for any unforeseen issues that might bring up some additional costs. Get quotes from different installers that you might consider working with and compare their prices versus what they are offering and your budget.
If the installer requests you to make full payment before they complete the work, you should consider that as a red flag. If they have to buy some materials like moldings or glue, you can make an exception. However, professional contractors always require a deposit before they start the works and the rest of the payment upon completion.
Use These Tips to Hire the Right Floor Installers for Your Project
If you want to have the best floors, you have to make sure that you hire the right floor installers. When you work with experts, you can be sure that they will take good care of your home and deliver high-quality work. You deserve the best floors, therefore, hire only the best.
Check out our website for more informative articles.