10 Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before Installing New Flooring

The floors are starting to look a little rundown after the years and it?s finally time to put in a fresh look. But first, the Wayne Wiles team wants to make sure that you are asking the right questions. Homeowners want floors that match the aesthetic of their house and that suit the needs of their lifestyle, but are homeowners asking the right questions in order to do so. The team at Wayne Wiles recommends asking your contractor these questions before choosing new flooring for your home.

? ??1. What are the warranty terms for both the flooring and installation?

Homeowners may consider asking questions about warranty on flooring so that if any problems arise in the future they are equipped with the steps necessary to fix the problem. Staying informed on flooring warranties ensures that the appropriate action is taken in case of damage or unforeseen difficulties.

? ??2. Are my subfloors in good shape for installation?

Subfloors are often overlooked in the purchasing of new flooring, but they play a large role in the options available. Subfloors may not be homeowners number one concern, but if they are not level or are damaged there can be delays in installation or even limitations on the types of flooring that can be installed. If subfloors are in bad condition they may need to be replaced. Subfloors with imperfections often can still sustain carpet, vinyl or sometimes hardwood, but it is recommended to have them examined to ensure which options work best.

? ??3. Will my doors have enough clearance when installing new carpeting?

When installing new carpet homeowners should check with their contractors to confirm doors will have enough clearance to open without snagging on the carpet. If there is interference, doors should be trimmed prior to installation.

? ??4. Does your company provide free estimates?

Before making any drastic moves, make sure to get an estimate for new flooring. An estimator will determine exactly how much carpet, tile, etc. you will need to buy and, in most cases, will determine the layout of the flooring in the room. In the purchase of carpet, an estimator can help decide where to place seams, how to match patterns and how to minimize carpet waste. Wayne Wiles provides free in-home estimates and will find the right fit for your home every time.

? ??5. Is the flooring kid/pet friendly?

Flooring like porcelain tile and stone tile are scratch resistant to pet?s paws and footprints and are easy to clean when it comes to accidents and spills. Some homeowners prefer softer surfaces like carpet for young children, but carpet can often be hard to clean and can stain easily. Hard flooring is an ideal choice for durability and suitable for both pets and children.

? ??6. Is my home?s foundation stable enough to support new flooring?

One major concern when installing new flooring is the foundation of the home. A licensed contractor can determine if a home?s foundation is stable enough to install new flooring. If a foundation is shifting, then tile may not be a good option. This can lead to cracks and breaks in the tile that will translate to costly repairs. More flexible options such as vinyl or laminate are a better choice for foundation movement.

? ??7. Are there options for non-allergenic flooring?

Generally, hard surface flooring is better for those with allergies as it is easy to clean and unlike carpet, does not harbor dust and pollen. Experts suggest using solid hardwood, engineered wood or tile for best results against allergies. However, if carpet is your flooring of choice, make sure to vacuum often and regularly steam clean to best cut down on allergens.

? ??8. Will I need to leave extra room for my floors to expand?

Some flooring requires an expansion gap when installing so that temperature changes and moisture do not cause cracks due to lack of breathing room. For laminate flooring, it is suggested to leave around ? inch depending on the size of the room, to allow for expansion. This will help the floors avoid cracking or buckling after installation.

? ??9. Does my flooring need underlayment?

Some floors require underlayment, which works to protect your floor from damage and water moisture. A 3-in-1 underlayment, also acts as a noise barrier to protect against the hollow sound that can sometimes resonate while walking. Underlayment is also suggested for vinyl flooring, if not already attached, laminate flooring and engineered wood flooring to protect against damage.

? ??10. How do I ensure the best quality service and product when choosing new flooring?

There are no rules that exist for choosing the best flooring for your home. Multiple factors come into play such as comfort, aesthetic features and cost. However, doing research about the product and the installer, and asking the right questions can help ensure a homeowner receives the quality and service they desire.


Wayne Wiles offers a vast selection of floor coverings and never sacrifices quality for low cost. From carpet to hardwood floors, the Wayne Wiles team can offer advice on up-to-date trends and provide estimates for a variety of brands and products. When choosing Wayne Wiles customers can be assured that they will get the best possible installation services time and time again. Contact us to schedule a free flooring estimate at (239) 204-5700.