Finding a Reputable Flooring Contractor

Last weekend, I dragged my reluctant family to our local greasy spoon so that I could have tomatoes and grits with my breakfast, the kind of breakfast I grew up with. While we waited in line to pay – yes, they still do that too – I was busy looking at the sea of business cards adorning the desk.

Not too long ago, independent businesses had green sheets, school sports programs, and those cards as the main source of leads. Lucky for us, the Internet has taken much of the guesswork out of hiring contractors, giving voice to satisfied and not-so-satisfied customers. And we don’t have to keep track of ALL of those cards.

Finding Reputable Contractors

If you don’t already have a flooring professional in mind, ask the people you trust most: friends, family, and neighbors about their experiences.

Google searches, community groups on Facebook, and neighborhood sites like NextDoor are excellent ways to find flooring contractors. Many local groups even allow businesses to advertise on certain days, giving you a chance to ask questions before committing.

Real estate agents can also be a valuable resource since they often work with contractors and know who is reputable.

Researching Your Contractor

All potential contractors should have a professional website. A company that invests in a solid online presence is more likely to be trustworthy. Be wary of businesses without any online footprint.

Check review sites like Yelp, BBB, Houzz, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Customer reviews can provide insight into the contractor’s reputation and quality of work.

Look for online portfolios and customer-shared images. Many contractors post their finished projects on websites and social media. This can help you gauge their work quality before making a decision.

Scheduling a Consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, call the contractors for an in-home consultation. These should be free and are an opportunity to ask questions. Here are some things to look for:

• Do they arrive on time or call if delayed?
• Do they bring proper tools to measure your space?
• Do they provide samples for you to see in your home lighting?

Be sure to ask about material composition, maintenance, durability, and any concerns you might have regarding chemicals or allergens.

Before Installation Begins

Once you've selected a contractor, ensure the work area is properly prepped. Any demolition or installation should not begin without protective coverings on fixtures and furniture.

Your home will be a construction site, meaning dust and debris are inevitable. However, the contractor should clean up thoroughly at the end of the job.

Clear communication with your contractor ensures that your flooring installation goes smoothly. If you have any concerns, ask questions—it’s your home, and your satisfaction is the priority.