When it’s time to remodel your home and replace your old hardwood floors, you want to hire a professional who knows how to do the job right. But how do you know who to choose? Before you make a final hiring decision, ask potential installers the following 5 questions.
1 – Are You Licensed And Insured?
If the installer is professional and trustworthy, they have taken the proper steps to conduct a legal business. This means that they are covered for any unexpected events that can take place. Accidents are rare, but if someone accidentally cuts into an electrical wire, or bursts a pipe in your basement, you want to be sure they’re covered for any potential losses and clean up. Also, find out up-front what kind of warranties they offer to back up their work.
2 – Do You Have References And Positive Reviews?
Never be afraid to ask for references. A good contractor will hand them over without blinking an eye. You can also do a bit of research on floor installers and see what people are saying about them on sites like:
- Angie’s List
- Yelp
- Google Reviews
- Home Advisor
Most installers will have a complaint or two; that’s just business. Look at the reviews as a whole. For example, 2 negative reviews versus 20 positive reviews is a normal record. 8 total reviews with a half of them being negative is a cause for concern.
3 – How Do You Handle Clean-Up?
New floor installation can create a mess in your home. Find out how installers handle the dust and protect the furnishings and appliances. You might assume that they take away the old materials they rip out, but it’s not always the case. You want a company that contains the mess as they go and cleans up after.
4 – How Long Will The Job Take?
This can be a deal breaker. You need to have a reasonable expectation of how long the project will take to complete. Ask about delivery times and length of acclimation. Improper acclimation will exaggerate seasonal gapping and may result in buckling and permanent damage to your new floor. Find out if the crew has regularly scheduled days off, or if they don’t work on weekends. Remodeling is a big job that everyone must accommodate, and having a set time in mind can alleviate the toll it can take.
5 – How Is Payment Handled?
If you speak to a professional installer who requests payment before any work is done, consider that a red flag. There may be exceptions to this rule, but most floor installers require a deposit on the first day of work, and the rest due upon completion.
Knowing this information and asking the right questions will help you make a wise choice in choosing an installer. One who will make your hardwood floors look is worth their weight in gold. Especially if they are trusted and professional.
