Best Flooring Installation Companies

Choosing new floors can completely transform the look and feel of your home. However, proper installation is key to ensuring your new floors perform well and look amazing for years to come. That’s why it’s important to choose an experienced, reputable flooring installation company for the job. Here’s an in-depth look at how to select the best flooring installation company for your needs.

What To Look For In A Flooring Installation Company

When evaluating flooring installation companies, there are several important factors to consider:

Experience and Training

Look for installers with at least 3-5 years of experience installing your specific type of flooring. They should be knowledgeable about proper installation techniques and have training from leading flooring brands. Ask about the brands they are certified to install.

Proper Licensing and Insurance

The company should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured. This protects you in case of damage or issues down the road. Make sure they carry both general liability insurance and workers compensation coverage.

Strong Reputation

Choose a flooring installer with a proven track record of quality work. Look for reviews, testimonials, photos of past jobs, and references from satisfied customers. A company that stands behind their work will have no problem providing references.

Attention to Detail

The installer should assess your space and take precise measurements before providing a quote. They should thoroughly inspect the subflooring and discuss any concerns. Quality companies pay close attention to the details throughout the installation process.

Quality Materials

Ask where the company sources their flooring materials from. They should use top brands and only sell floors they can personally guarantee. Stay away from contractors who try to convince you to buy questionable materials.

Fair Pricing

Get an itemized quote in writing upfront. The bid should clearly explain the services included. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Quality flooring and skilled labor costs money.

Professional Crew

Find out who will be completing the installation. Quality companies have their own trained employees, not subcontractors. Make sure they will have enough crew members to complete the job efficiently.

Strong Warranties

Choose an installer that stands behind their work with warranties of at least one year for labor. Materials should have a warranty through the manufacturer. Read the fine print carefully to understand coverage.

Types of Flooring Installation Companies

There are several different types of companies that provide flooring installation services:

Flooring Retailers

Many flooring stores like Floor & Decor or Lumber Liquidators have installation crews on staff. This can be convenient, but make sure to check their qualifications. Get references from jobs not performed as part of a flooring purchase.

Independent Flooring Contractors

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These companies focus specifically on flooring installation. They have the experience to properly install a wide variety of flooring types. Just be sure to verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured.

General Contractors

Some general contractors offer flooring installation in addition to other remodeling services. Choose ones with dedicated flooring crews rather than dabbling in it as a side gig.

Handyman Services

While handymen can install flooring, it’s riskier going with someone less specialized. Be extremely wary of ads offering flooring installation at unusually low prices.

Flooring Manufacturers

For specialty flooring like athletic court surfaces, sometimes the manufacturer will have their own installation team. This can provide peace of mind for complicated projects.

No matter which type of company you choose, be sure to evaluate their qualifications thoroughly first. An unqualified installer can damage floors or cause headaches long after the job is done.

Questions to Ask Potential Flooring Installers

Don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions upfront when vetting flooring installation companies. Here are some important ones to get the conversation started:

How long have you been installing this specific type of flooring?

Ideally, look for companies that have been installing your flooring choice for a minimum of three years or longer. Newer technologies like waterproof vinyl plank may be an exception.

Are you certified through any flooring brands or training programs?

Reputable installers invest time and money into training programs so they can properly install the latest products. Brand certifications also show their dedication.

Do you also sell flooring or strictly provide installation?

Some consumers prefer to choose their own flooring. Companies that just handle installation have no incentive to push certain products.

Who will be completing the actual installation work?

Ask if they have their own trained employees or use subcontractors. Get the names of the installers who will be assigned to your job.

Can you provide references from previous flooring jobs?

Any quality company should be able to provide multiple references. Call a few previous customers to check satisfaction levels.

How long will the installation take?

Get an estimate of the total time needed, as well as the steps involved. This shows their understanding of your specific job.

What types of floor preparation are included?

Things like subfloor repair, moisture testing, leveling concrete, or moving appliances should be clarified upfront. Know exactly what’s included.

How do you handle dust containment and cleanup?

Quality contractors keep the job site neat and clean on a daily basis. Ask specific questions about their cleanup process.

Does your company carry insurance?

At minimum, they should have general liability and workers comp coverage. Ask for proof of current policies.

What types of warrantees does your work include?

There should be at least a 1-year labor warranty. Longer is better for services warranties. Make sure material warranties are through the manufacturer.

How long have you been in business?

While longevity isn’t everything, companies with long track records often provide higher quality workmanship.

Can you provide an itemized quote for the project?

Reputable companies provide a detailed quote you can clearly understand rather than just a vague bid.

Red Flags to Watch For

When evaluating flooring installers, there are also some red flags to watch out for:

No Business License or Insurance

Any legitimate company should carry the proper business licenses and insurance. Don’t risk hiring uninsured contractors for your home.

Vague Pricing

Be wary if the company avoids providing specifics about what is included in the quoted price. Make sure all services and materials are clearly spelled out.

Requests Cash Payment

While some cash payment is normal, companies requesting unusually large cash deposits could be unstable or evading taxes.

Uses High-Pressure Tactics

Quality companies let their work speak for itself. Constant high-pressure sales tactics are a bad sign.

Lacks Experience

Think twice if the company is vague about past flooring projects or says they can install any type of flooring well. Stick with focused experience.

Appears Disorganized

Unanswered calls, missed appointments, lack of contracts, and frequent excuses can signal disorganization.

Lacks Professionalism

Sloppy personal appearance and presentation, dirty work vehicles, or unprofessional conduct are concerns.

Poor Online Reviews

Check multiple review sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau for any pattern of negative feedback.

Unable to Verify License

If the company avoids showing you official licensing documentation, or claims to be exempt, it should raise skepticism.

How to Check Credentials

To avoid choosing a fly-by-night contractor, be sure to thoroughly check their credentials:

Call references – Speaking to past customers provides important insights the company won’t include.
Check for complaints – Search the company name online along with terms like “complaint” or “scam” to uncover issues.
Verify licenses – Check with your state licensing board that required licenses are valid and current.
View insurance proof – Require contractors provide you with documentation showing active insurance policies.
See certifications – Quality companies will proudly provide proof of any manufacturer or training certifications.
Look for memberships – Trade organization memberships like NFIB or NAHB are a positive sign.
Confirm years in business – While longevity isn’t a guarantee, new companies with no track record are riskier.
Inspect online presence – A professional website, positive online reviews, and proper contact info are good signs.
Tour their facility – Visiting a contractor’s office lets you gauge their professionalism.

Key Services Flooring Installers Provide

Professional flooring contractors handle all aspects of the installation process:

Planning and Layout

They will measure your space, make recommendations for look and performance, help finalize materials selection, and develop an efficient layout for the new floors.

Tear Out of Old Floors

For replacements, the crew will remove and dispose of your old flooring properly. This includes special handling for potential asbestos containing materials.

Floor Preparation

Subfloors need to be leveled, repaired, and properly cleaned. They may handle steps like concrete grinding, applying primer or sealers, or removing old adhesive.

Moisture Testing and Remediation

Excess moisture can ruin floors. Installers should test concrete and wood subfloors for moisture and address any issues.

Trimming Doors, Moldings and Transitions

Getting new floors to fit properly often requires trimming doors, sanding moldings, and installing suitable transitions.

Carrying and Staging of Materials

Flooring materials can be heavy. Contractors have techniques for efficiently moving large amounts of flooring to avoid damage.

Careful Installation

Using specialized tools, experienced installers properly install the new floors following manufacturer specs for issues like expansion gaps.

Inspecting and Correcting Defects

Good crews continually inspect for any imperfections as the installation progresses, correcting them immediately.

Custom Cutting and Detail Work

Intricate periphery cuts, holes for pipes, inlays, borders, and other custom work should be handled with precision.

Cleaning and Protection

After installation, crews thoroughly clean the new floors and apply protectants so they look pristine.

Factors That Impact Flooring Installation Costs

Several factors determine overall costs for new flooring installation:

Type of flooring – Prices vary drastically for carpet, hardwood, ceramic tile, and different vinyl products. Exotic woods and stones raise costs.
Labor intensive practices – Hand scraped wood and intricate tile layouts require more labor hours which increase project costs.
Level of demolition – Removing old flooring drives up dump fees. Concrete grinding, moisture barriers, or subfloor repairs add expenses.
Accessibility – Stairs, small spaces, or moving appliances increase effort and time for installers, especially for heavy materials.
Custom touches– Borders, special patterns, ceilings, or heavy custom cutting increases material waste and man hours.
Regional labor rates – Installation costs are significantly higher in some markets like New York or San Francisco than others.
Material Grade – Higher grades of carpeting and wood with less defects cost more. Porcelain, stone or glass tiles add cost over cheaper ceramics.
National Brands – Big brands like Shaw or Mohawk charging premium pricing on materials and padding. Private label brands cost less.
Quantity and scope – Small projects or a few rooms costs more per sq.ft. than large whole house installations.

Keeping your project straightforward, combined with shopping sales and less expensive flooring materials can yield big savings on installation costs.

Flooring Installation Process From Start To Finish

The complete process for a professional flooring installation typically includes:

Initial Consultation

The contractor visits to assess your space, discuss flooring options, and take precise measurements to generate a quote.

Material Selection

Choose your preferred flooring materials, colors, styles, and grades based on the contractor’s recommendations.

Installation Date Scheduling

Based on contractor availability and your schedule, agree upon a start date for the work.

Pre-Installation Inspection

The installers should visit ahead of time to verify measurements, test subfloors, identify any repairs needed, and stage materials.

Prep Work

On installation day, the crew prepares the space by moving furniture, removing existing floors, cleaning subfloors, and repairing issues like cracks.

Floor Layout

The installers map out the new flooring throughout the space following best practices for visual appeal and performance.

Installation

Crew members use specialized tools to carefully install the new floors according to the layout design and manufacturer guidelines.

Transitions and Trim Work

Installers tackle the careful work of fitting the new flooring under doors, around pipes, and next to other surfaces throughout the space.

Cleanup and Protection

After installation, the crew thoroughly cleans the new floors, applies protectants, and puts furniture back in place.

Inspection and Completion

You complete a final walkthrough with the project manager to ensure satisfaction and sign off on the completed work.

DIY or Hire a Flooring Installation Company?

Installing new floors yourself can save money, but involves significant effort and risk. Key considerations include:

DIY Pros

Lower project cost
Sense of personal accomplishment
Control over all aspects

DIY Cons

Inexperience can lead to mistakes
Physically demanding work
Long learning curve
Need to buy or rent tools
Slow pace extends disruption

Professional Pros

Higher chance of quality outcome
Project completed faster
Experienced handling challenges
Proper tools and workforce
Licensed, bonded, and insured

Professional Cons

Added expense
Less control over process
Availability constraints
Still some prep work required

Ultimately, hiring a professional flooring company is worth the investment for most homeowners. The knowledge, efficiency, and peace of mind pros provide lead to better results.

Questions to Ask Yourself About DIY Installation

If still considering a DIY flooring installation, ask yourself these questions honestly:

Do I have enough free time to complete this project properly? It could easily take 20+ hours for an inexperienced person to install flooring in a single room.
Am I able to physically handle intense labor like removing old floors and moving heavy materials? Knee pads and back braces only help so much.
Do I own or can I borrow the right tools like nail guns, table saws, and power cutters? Improper tools make the job much harder.
Can I lift, carry, and maneuver large 4 x 8 sheets of plywood or 100 pound boxes of tile? Materials are bulky and heavy.
Is my sub-flooring in good shape, or will repairs be needed? Issues like cracks, squeaks, and moisture can turn into headaches.
Do I have a suitable workspace for cutting sheets and tiles cleanly and accurately? Improper cuts look sloppy.
How will I dispose of old flooring like carpeting or tiles? Regular garbage pickup won’t cut it.
If I make a mistake, do I have extra materials as backups? Waste is common for amateur installers.

If you answered no to several of these questions, professional installation may be a wiser and easier choice.

Working With Flooring Installers

These tips help ensure a smooth installation process when hiring flooring contractors:

Get quotes from at least 3 reputable companies before deciding.
Clearly communicate your expected timeframe and budget upfront.
Review what prep work like furniture moving you will handle vs. the crew.
Inspect subflooring yourself in advance to avoid surprise charges.
Ask questions and stay involved in the process rather than leaving entirely up to the contractors.
Provide plenty of workspace for the crew to stage and cut materials.
Make sure small children and pets are kept away from the work area.
Arrange for easy access to electrical outlets and restrooms for installers.
Avoid changes mid-project as that almost always increases costs.
Inspect finished floors carefully before making final payment to catch any imperfections.
Tip installers appropriately if they did quality work, typically 10%+ of labor costs.

Signs of a Poor Quality Flooring Installation

While problems may not appear instantly, inferior installation worksmanship can cause issues over time. Signs of subpar contractor work include:

Uneven surfaces– Floors should feel flat without bumps or dips which can cause safety hazards.
Improper cuts– Jagged edges, gaps, or squeezed fit pieces look sloppy and allow moisture ingress.
Weak seams– Gaps or height differences between planks/tiles indicate poor bonding.
Visible adhesive – Excess glue oozing between tiles or planks ruins the smooth look.
Squeaking noises– Noisy floors often mean improper nailing or subfloor issues beneath the surface.
Loose areas– New floors should feel completely solid, not loose or bouncy.
Staining/fading– Premature wear, scratches, and discoloration imply low quality installation or materials.

Don’t ignore these red flags if they develop or you may face an expensive premature replacement.

Key Takeaways

Vet potential flooring installers thoroughly based on licensing, training, experience, insurance, and reputation.
Understand exactly what services are included in the installation quote. Read all contracts carefully.
Allow plenty of time for the installation schedule as well as pre-project planning and material selection.
Monitor progress during the installation to immediately address any concerns.
Do a final walk through inspection before making final payment to catch any flaws.
Avoid DIY installation unless you have extensive experience with the specific flooring product.
Paying a premium for professional installation often saves headaches and costs long-term.

Conclusion

Installing new flooring can make a huge visual impact and completely update your home’s style. But in order to get the look, performance, and longevity you expect from new floors, expert installation is critical. Doing the due diligence to select qualified