Flooring in your area
Updating your floors is one of the biggest ways to change how your home looks, feels, and functions. Whether you’re replacing worn-out carpet, upgrading to hardwood, or fixing damaged tiles, finding the right flooring pro in your area makes all the difference.
Home Services Scout helps you quickly compare local flooring companies so you can hire someone you trust—without spending hours calling around.
Types of flooring to consider
Hardwood flooring
Hardwood is popular for its classic look and long lifespan.
Best for:
- Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways, and bedrooms
- Homeowners who want to increase resale value
Things to know:
- Can be refinished multiple times
- Sensitive to moisture—avoid in full bathrooms or damp basements
- Higher upfront cost but can last decades with proper care
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and vinyl tile
Vinyl has come a long way and is now one of the most practical options for busy households.
Best for:
- Kitchens, basements, entryways, and homes with kids or pets
- Areas where you want water resistance
Things to know:
- Often waterproof or highly water-resistant
- Softer and warmer underfoot than tile
- Wide range of styles that mimic wood or stone at a lower cost
Laminate flooring
Laminate offers a wood-look at a budget-friendly price.
Best for:
- Living spaces and bedrooms
- Homeowners who want a durable, scratch-resistant surface
Things to know:
- Not all laminate is water-resistant—ask before installing in kitchens or basements
- Can’t be refinished; damaged boards must be replaced
- Needs a properly prepared subfloor to avoid hollow sounds or movement
Tile flooring
Tile is durable, long-lasting, and ideal for wet areas.
Best for:
- Bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and some kitchens
- Homes in warm climates where cool floors are a plus
Things to know:
- Very water-resistant and easy to clean
- Can feel hard and cold underfoot—area rugs and mats help
- Proper installation and waterproofing are critical to avoid leaks and cracked tiles
Carpet
Carpet adds comfort, warmth, and sound absorption.
Best for:
- Bedrooms, family rooms, and stairs
- Homes where comfort and quiet are a priority
Things to know:
- Needs regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning
- Not ideal for damp areas or homes with severe allergies
- Quality padding makes a big difference in comfort and longevity
Signs it’s time to replace or repair your flooring
You don’t always need a full replacement—sometimes a repair or refinish is enough. Watch for:
- Warping, buckling, or soft spots in wood, laminate, or vinyl
- Cracked, loose, or hollow-sounding tiles
- Carpet that’s matted, stained, or smells musty even after cleaning
- Gaps between boards or planks that keep getting worse
- Squeaky, spongy, or uneven areas underfoot
- Water damage, discoloration, or moldy odors
If you notice any of these issues, a local flooring pro can inspect your floors and recommend whether repair, refinishing, or replacement makes the most sense.
What to expect from a local flooring project
1. In-home visit and estimate
Most flooring companies will:
- Measure the rooms and check your subfloor
- Ask about your lifestyle (kids, pets, allergies, how long you plan to stay)
- Show samples or suggest materials that fit your budget
- Provide a written estimate with labor, materials, and any prep work
Tip: Have a rough budget in mind and be honest about how you use the space. This helps the pro recommend the most practical options.
2. Choosing materials and layout
Once you choose a contractor, you’ll finalize:
- Flooring type, color, and finish
- Direction of planks or tile pattern
- Transitions between rooms and existing floors
- Trim, baseboards, and stair details
Ask to see larger samples in your home’s lighting if possible. Colors can look very different in person compared to a showroom or online photo.
3. Prep work and installation
On installation day, you can expect:
- Furniture moving (confirm if this is included in your quote)
- Removal and disposal of old flooring
- Subfloor inspection and any needed repairs or leveling
- Installation of underlayment, moisture barriers, or padding
- Cutting and fitting of the new flooring, plus trim and transitions
Flooring projects can be noisy and dusty. Cover nearby items, plan for pets and kids, and ask how long each area will be off-limits.
4. Cleanup and final walkthrough
A reputable flooring pro should:
- Haul away old materials and debris
- Sweep or vacuum the work area
- Walk through the finished job with you
- Explain care instructions and any warranty details
Take your time during the walkthrough. Look for gaps, uneven transitions, or loose boards and mention anything that doesn’t look right before the crew leaves.
DIY vs. hiring a flooring professional
Some flooring types are more DIY-friendly than others, but there are trade-offs.
When DIY can make sense
- Floating laminate or click-together vinyl in small, simple rooms
- Replacing a few damaged planks or tiles (if you have extras)
- Basic carpet tile installation in low-traffic areas
DIY can save money, but you’ll need tools, time, and patience—especially for cuts around doors, stairs, and vents.
When to call a pro
It’s usually worth hiring a professional when:
- You’re installing hardwood, tile, or glued-down flooring
- The subfloor is uneven, squeaky, or water-damaged
- You’re working around stairs, complicated layouts, or multiple transitions
- You want manufacturer warranties that require professional installation
- You don’t have time for a project that could stretch over several weekends
A pro brings experience, specialized tools, and the ability to spot hidden issues before they become expensive problems.
How to choose a flooring company in your area
When comparing local flooring contractors on Home Services Scout, pay attention to:
- Experience with your specific material (hardwood vs. vinyl vs. tile)
- Photos of past projects that look similar to your home
- Verified reviews mentioning punctuality, cleanliness, and communication
- Licensing and insurance appropriate for your state
- Clear, written estimates that break down labor, materials, and extras
Don’t be afraid to ask for references or to see a current job site if you’re planning a large project.
Questions to ask before you hire
Use this list to have a more productive conversation with potential pros:
- What flooring type do you recommend for my lifestyle and budget—and why?
- How do you handle subfloor issues if you find them after tear-out?
- Is furniture moving and old flooring removal included in your quote?
- How long will the project take, and when can you start?
- Who will be on-site doing the work—your employees or subcontractors?
- What warranties do you offer on both materials and labor?
- How do you handle dust control and cleanup?
Taking notes during these conversations makes it easier to compare companies side by side.
Simple tips to protect your new floors
Once your new flooring is installed, a few habits go a long way:
- Add doormats at all entrances to catch dirt and grit
- Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches
- Clean up spills quickly, especially on wood and laminate
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations—avoid harsh chemicals
- Use area rugs in high-traffic zones and under rolling chairs
These small steps can add years to the life of your floors and keep them looking new.
Flooring FAQs
How long does a typical flooring project take?
For an average-sized room, many installations can be completed in 1–2 days, including removal of old flooring. Larger projects, tile work, or jobs that require subfloor repairs may take several days to a week. Your contractor should give you a clear timeline before work begins.
Do I need to move all my furniture before installation?
Some flooring companies include furniture moving in their estimate, while others charge extra or ask you to handle it. You’ll usually need to remove small items, decor, and electronics yourself. Always confirm what’s included so there are no surprises on installation day.
Can new flooring be installed over my existing floors?
In some cases, yes—certain vinyl, laminate, and engineered products can be installed over existing floors if they’re flat, dry, and in good condition. However, damaged, uneven, or soft flooring usually needs to be removed. A pro will inspect your current floors and recommend the safest option.
What flooring is best if I have kids and pets?
Many homeowners with busy households choose luxury vinyl plank, tile, or durable laminate because they resist scratches and are easy to clean. If you prefer carpet, look for stain-resistant options and quality padding. A local flooring specialist can help you balance comfort, durability, and budget.
How do I know if my hardwood floors can be refinished instead of replaced?
If your hardwood isn’t severely warped and still has enough thickness above the tongue-and-groove, it may be a good candidate for refinishing. A flooring pro can measure and inspect for deep damage, water issues, or previous refinishes. In many cases, refinishing is more affordable than full replacement and can make old floors look new again.