I am often asked what makes us different or better than the other guy. The answer is simple, really. Quality! The thing that I think most people don't realize is how many ways there are to cut corners in this business. I have been called out to look at some poor installations and make recommendations. More times than not there is no cure for a bad job.
This may run a bit long but I will explain the difference between a quality and a sub-standard installation on a typical wood floor. Since our region has mostly concrete foundations I will use that as my example.
1. Preparation of the slab. Once the carpet, pad and tack strip are removed there are several other things that need to be done. Sadly, some installers proceed to install at this point. A quality installer will follow National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) standards. Abrade the slab. Using a floor buffer and abrasive disc a quality installer will scour the slab which removes any slick areas caused by additives and foreign substances in the slab. This step allows the adhesive or vapor barrier to bond well to the concrete.
2. Leveling. A quality installer will check the slab and level it as needed with a high quality leveling compound.
3. Vapor barrier. This has become increasingly important. There are some very high quality vapor barriers available. A quality installer will check the slab with a moisture meter and determine if a barrier is needed. Although this only tells you the vapor emissions at the time of testing. This can vary in different seasons. We always recommend a barrier as it gives a warranty against moisture vapor problems.
4. Adhesives. Very important as this is what holds your floor down. There are adhesives for wood floors that cost as little as $40.00 a pail and some than cost $140.00 a pail. Big difference in quality as well. Also it is very important to spread the adhesive at the proper rate. This is accomplished by using the correct trowel. Using a smaller trowel will stretch the coverage but will not be good over the long haul.
5. A quality installer goes out of his way to do the little things that give you a professional job. For example, under cutting door jambs, casings and fire places. Allowing the new flooring to be slipped under.
6. Licensed, bonded and insured. Very important things. It is easy in this day and age to see if your contractor has a valid contractors license. http://www2.cslb.ca.gov/General-Information/interactive-tools/check-a-license/License+Detail.asp
This may run a bit long but I will explain the difference between a quality and a sub-standard installation on a typical wood floor. Since our region has mostly concrete foundations I will use that as my example.
1. Preparation of the slab. Once the carpet, pad and tack strip are removed there are several other things that need to be done. Sadly, some installers proceed to install at this point. A quality installer will follow National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) standards. Abrade the slab. Using a floor buffer and abrasive disc a quality installer will scour the slab which removes any slick areas caused by additives and foreign substances in the slab. This step allows the adhesive or vapor barrier to bond well to the concrete.
2. Leveling. A quality installer will check the slab and level it as needed with a high quality leveling compound.
3. Vapor barrier. This has become increasingly important. There are some very high quality vapor barriers available. A quality installer will check the slab with a moisture meter and determine if a barrier is needed. Although this only tells you the vapor emissions at the time of testing. This can vary in different seasons. We always recommend a barrier as it gives a warranty against moisture vapor problems.
4. Adhesives. Very important as this is what holds your floor down. There are adhesives for wood floors that cost as little as $40.00 a pail and some than cost $140.00 a pail. Big difference in quality as well. Also it is very important to spread the adhesive at the proper rate. This is accomplished by using the correct trowel. Using a smaller trowel will stretch the coverage but will not be good over the long haul.
5. A quality installer goes out of his way to do the little things that give you a professional job. For example, under cutting door jambs, casings and fire places. Allowing the new flooring to be slipped under.
6. Licensed, bonded and insured. Very important things. It is easy in this day and age to see if your contractor has a valid contractors license. http://www2.cslb.ca.gov/General-Information/interactive-tools/check-a-license/License+Detail.asp
7. Warranty. We have a lifetime warranty on our installation. We stand behind what we do.
