
Adding hardwood floors is an investment that will improve the look of your home and increase its value. But the success of your project depends on the quality of the contractor you hire.
Avoid a flooring contractor that only accepts cash payments. It’s a red flag that they may be selling you second-hand or inferior materials.
1. Reputation
A contractor’s reputation can tell you a lot about their services and level of professionalism. A reputable flooring contractor will have testimonials on their website and in online reviews about the work they’ve done for other homeowners.
In addition to looking at online reviews and asking for references, it’s also a good idea to ask around. Check with neighbors, friends, and coworkers about their experiences with local flooring contractors to get a sense of who might be a good fit for your project.
Another aspect to consider is whether or not a flooring contractor has any certifications or relationships with manufacturers or trade organizations that can help them to better serve their customers. This adds another layer of assurance that they can provide you with quality flooring solutions for your home. They may also be bonded, which means they have contractor liability insurance that protects you if something goes wrong with your project.
2. Experience
One of the most important characteristics to look for in a flooring contractor is their level of experience. A seasoned flooring professional will have extensive knowledge of different flooring materials and installation techniques, which can ensure a smooth project from start to finish.
They will also be familiar with local building codes and regulations, ensuring that the job is completed according to industry standards. This can protect you from shoddy workmanship and potential safety hazards.
Lastly, an experienced flooring contractor will have a portfolio of past projects to showcase their work. Ask to see examples of these projects and compare them to the style you have in mind for your home or business. This will give you an idea of the quality of their work and help you determine if they are the right fit for your renovation. Additionally, a reputable flooring professional will offer a warranty for both their materials and installation services, giving you added peace of mind.
3. Warranty
When looking for a flooring contractor, it’s important to find one that offers a warranty on their work. Not only will this protect you in the event of a mistake during installation or restoration, but it will also give you peace of mind that your new floors will last for years to come.
You should always ask potential contractors for a copy of their insurance policy and verify with the insurance company that it is current. This is especially true if they are using any heavy equipment, which can cause damage to your property or injuries to workers.
Additionally, you should ask potential flooring contractors for references from past customers and call them to discuss their experience with the contractor. This will help you get a better idea of their quality of work and whether or not they would be a good fit for your project. In addition, ask about their manufacturer’s warranties and what might void them.
4. Reliability
A reliable flooring contractor should be able to meet your project deadlines and provide prompt service when necessary. A qualified professional will offer a warranty for both installation and materials, which can provide peace of mind throughout the duration of your project.
A focus on customer satisfaction and a dedication to ethical practices are important aspects of reliability. Companies that prioritize these characteristics can enhance their reliability rating and differentiate themselves in a competitive marketplace.
Transparency and third-party verification are also key components of a reliable business rating. These factors allow consumers to make informed decisions and mitigate risks by evaluating businesses through a rigorous evaluation process.
Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations and referrals to find a reliable epoxy flooring installer in your area. You can also use trusted resources like Modernize to connect with vetted flooring contractors near you. Be sure to request quotes from multiple contractors and compare pricing.
5. Communication
A good flooring contractor will be able to explain in detail their installation process and any potential issues that may arise. They should also be able to answer your questions clearly and thoughtfully. If they seem hesitant or don’t respond to your questions, it’s likely best to move on to another contractor.
You should also ask a flooring contractor how they plan to handle any setbacks that might occur during your project. For example, if you have furniture that needs to be moved during the flooring installation, the provider should be able to give you an idea of how they would handle this.
Most flooring contractors have photos online of their past work that you can look at to determine the quality of their work. You should also ask them to provide references from previous customers. If possible, you should request testimonials from several past customers who have had projects similar to your own.
6. Competitive Pricing
It is important to choose a flooring contractor that provides competitive pricing. This can help to keep project costs within budget and increase profits. However, it is also important to ensure that a flooring company is using ethical pricing strategies and adhering to all pricing regulations.
To maintain profitability, flooring contractors must cover various operating expenses, including employee wages, equipment, and utilities. In addition, they must also consider material and supply costs. Sourcing materials directly and establishing strong relationships with suppliers can help to reduce these costs. Additionally, monitoring market prices and adjusting pricing strategies as needed can also play an important role in managing costs.
When comparing quotes, make sure to ask the flooring contractor for references and to see examples of their work. A reputable flooring contractor will be happy to share this information. In addition, you should avoid contractors who require a large cash deposit up front or insist that you sign a contract immediately. These practices may indicate that they are not a legitimate contractor.
7. Trustworthiness
A good flooring contractor prioritizes trustworthiness, so you can have peace of mind when hiring them for your project. They take the time to carefully assess your needs, and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Reputable contractors have years of experience with flooring repairs and refinishing. Their skills and knowledge ensure that your floors are installed properly, while keeping your style preferences in mind. They also know how to choose materials that will last for years.
When vetting potential contractors, ask for references from past customers. This is one of the best ways to see firsthand how well they work. A good flooring contractor will have no problem providing you with testimonials that prove their reliability and skill. It’s also important to make sure that the contractor has a valid contractor license in your area. Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality. Working with a licensed contractor protects you from liability in case of an accident or other mishap during your project.
8. Timely Completion
If you’re able to, take the time to get at least three flooring estimates for your project. Make sure each contractor includes their start and completion dates, a detailed list of the work to be completed, how waste will be managed, who is responsible for equipment rentals and how your property will be protected during the job.
It’s also a good idea to check whether the contractor has insurance, licensing and education. This will help to ensure they are a prepared and professional contractor for the installation or restoration of your flooring.
Any reputable flooring contractor should be able to provide you with references from previous customers that can speak to the quality of their work and level of satisfaction. Try to request photos of projects from the past as well as testimonials. In addition, ask whether they offer a warranty for both materials and workmanship.
9. Customer Service
Providing good customer service is one of the most important factors for flooring firms to thrive. A survey by Genesys Global shows that bad customer services costs the industry about $338.5 billion every year in lost business.
Flooring companies need to focus on providing customers with round-the-clock customer support and free training to help increase their satisfaction level. They should also be willing to accommodate their clients by hiring extra staff if needed.
A good way to find out whether a flooring contractor has good customer service is by asking for references. You can ask them about their experience with the flooring company, how satisfied they are with the work, and whether they would recommend the company to others. In addition, you can ask for photographs of the completed projects. A good contractor will be happy to provide these references. Also, a good contractor should have an About Us page that tells the story of the company and its founders.