Skeleton: FAQs

Our flooring project estimates encompass both materials and installation costs. This way, we can guarantee that your estimate includes a manufacturer-approved installation process that safeguards your warranty.

While exploring options for new flooring, you may encounter multiple project estimates from different providers. Even if you decide not to choose our flooring contractors, we want to support the success of your project. Here are three approaches to comparing estimates:

1. The 10% Rule: If the lowest estimate is more than 10% cheaper than the highest estimate, corners are probably being cut on the lower one. Generally, the discrepancy between each quote should not exceed 10%.
2. Installation Process: To safeguard your warranty, inquire whether the installer follows a method approved by the manufacturer. This ensures that no conflicts arise in the event of a warranty claim.
3. Online Reviews: Does the flooring company respond to customer feedback online? If you observe an installer disregarding negative feedback, they may not be the most suitable choice. Additionally, ratings below four stars may raise concerns.

The entire procedure typically lasts around 90 minutes and equips you with all the necessary information to select the ideal partner for your flooring installation project. This comprehensive process covers aspects such as product selection and provides an estimate of the timeline for your project.

*This estimate may vary based on project location or for commercial-grade installations.

Our exclusive consultations simplify the flooring selection and installation process through four straightforward steps. Here’s what you can anticipate when you arrange a complimentary in-home meeting with one of our Design Associates:

1. Personal Consultation: Each appointment is assigned to a dedicated flooring professional who will be with you from start to finish, ensuring personalized attention throughout.
2. In-Home Shopping: Our Mobile Flooring Showroom® will arrive at your doorstep, showcasing over 3,000 product options. This allows you to visualize how each flooring option will complement your space’s lighting, decor, and style.
3. Budget-Conscious Proposals: Once your Design Associate understands your objectives and budget, they will provide you with multiple proposal options that strike the perfect balance between price, product quality, and installation.
4. Fast Quotes: During your consultation, our Design Associate will promptly deliver complete proposal options for your flooring project on the same day.* Please note that larger projects may require up to 48 hours to deliver a complete proposal, and commercial project estimates will vary.

*Please note that larger projects may take up to 48 hours to receive a comprehensive proposal. Commercial project estimates may vary.

Absolutely! Floor Coverings International® provides a range of financing options to fit your budget, subject to approved credit. In addition to the cost of your flooring project, we will furnish you with payment terms and opportunities for each alternative we propose.

Floor Coverings International® offers a warranty of at least one (1) year on installation and workmanship with extended warranties available at select locations.* Most competitors only cover one year or less.*

Also, products showcased in the Mobile Flooring Showroom® come with a factory-direct limited warranty provided by the manufacturer. These guarantees will cover manufacturer defects and typically last for up to 10 years.

*This guarantee may vary based on project location or for commercial-grade installations.

Yes! The products showcased in our mobile showroom come with a factory-direct limited warranty. This warranty provided by the manufacturer offers coverage for product defects, ensuring that issues like stains on a stain-resistant carpet are addressed.
It’s important to note that these warranties generally do not cover regular wear and tear, and their typical duration is up to ten years.

Many of our Floor Coverings International® locations have local warehouses or storefronts, but visits are usually by appointment only.
Most customers browse our products at an on-site consultation. We bring our entire flooring catalog to each appointment, so you can visualize how different materials and designs will look in your unique space.

Before scheduling a free consultation with our Design Associates, here are four design tips to kick-start your flooring selection process:

1. Choose Complementary Colors: Select colors that harmonize with the overall color scheme of the space, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing environment.
2. Use Contrasting Textures: Incorporate textures that contrast with other elements in the room to add depth and visual interest.
3. Consider Functionality: Keep in mind the purpose of the room. For example, avoid using carpeting in kitchens where it may not be the most practical choice.
4. Embrace Your Unique Style: Express your individuality and personal taste through your flooring selection. Don’t shy away from exploring different styles that resonate with you.

When you’re ready to delve deeper into these design considerations, our Design Associates will be there to expertly guide you towards finding a flooring product that perfectly matches your style and preferences.

There are two primary vinyl flooring installation methods. Most manufacturers use either vinyl floor adhesive or a float and glueless method. The method professionals use depends on the type of flooring you choose. 

Yes! Underlayment smooths out imperfections in the subfloor, absorbs sound, and serves as an extra moisture barrier. In some cases, laminate planks and tile come with underlayment pre-attached.

Vinyl plank flooring is created in multiple layers that make it stronger, quieter, and more comfortable than sheet vinyl. It also includes a coating that resists scratching and staining, and backings that contract well in high foot traffic areas. Due to all these factors, plus moisture resistance, plank vinyl flooring is excellent for bathrooms and almost any area of the home. Its applications include: 

• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Basements
• Family Rooms
• Laundry Rooms
• Entryways
• Living Rooms
• Bedrooms
• Home Offices

Vinyl plank is made with 3D printing technology, similar to laminate flooring, to create a top layer that mimics high-end materials and costs a fraction of their price. 

Solid wood and engineered hardwood are both exceptionally durable flooring options. Perhaps the biggest difference is refinishing: Solid hardwood floors can be refinished several times due to the depth of the wear layer, so it’s easily repaired if dented or deeply scraped. Engineered wood floors have a much shallower wear layer, though their thickness varies; some can be refinished a couple of times and others not at all.  

Most carpets last 5-15 years, although the average lifespan of carpet varies based on several factors, including:  

• Foot traffic – Carpets in high-traffic areas of the home, like the entryway or hallway, will wear more quickly.
• Quality – Premium, high-density carpets will last longer than bargain carpets and flooring.
• Pets – Pets increase the need for frequent cleaning by creating stains and odors.
• Installation – Properly installed carpet is less likely to wrinkle, crease, or curl.
• Climate – Carpets exposed to direct sunlight may fade faster than those in cloudier climates, while regions with high humidity pose a moisture risk.

Carpeting is sold per square foot, typically from $1 to $6. Carpet padding is usually sold separately and may cost between $0.50 and $2 per square foot. During your in-home consultation, your Design Associate will provide a detailed estimate based on your choice of carpet, the square footage required, and carpet removal and installation costs, if applicable. It’s all a part of our customer-oriented process!

Hypoallergenic carpet is designed to reduce the presence of allergens in your home, protecting those with respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies. It uses materials like nylon and polyester that are resistant to mold, mildew, and dust.

Carpet made of materials with reduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are commonly found in glues, fabrics, and other manufactured materials, are considered low VOC. Low VOC carpeting reduces off-gassing or the emission of chemicals. Many hypoallergenic carpets are also low VOC.

Laminate flooring is priced by the square foot and ranges from $0.60 to $5. Laminate flooring costs vary based on the quality of the material, manufacturer, and the square footage required.

Most laminate flooring is rated as water-resistant, which means it can handle spills and moisture for short periods. Exposure to standing water can result in warping or buckling. Some manufacturers make waterproof laminate tiles and planks best suited for bathrooms, kitchens, and high-moisture basements.

The cost of vinyl flooring and installation varies depending on the selected brand and design, the square footage, and the time needed to remove old flooring. Your local flooring team will provide a detailed estimate that includes material and labor so you know exactly what is included. 

Tile is an excellent option if you want a one-of-a-kind design for any room. Floor Coverings International® can help you select and install tile on any surface, from floors to backsplashes. 

The cost of tile flooring and installation varies depending on several factors, including the type of tile flooring, the square footage required, and the amount of labor needed to remove existing flooring. The biggest variable is the chosen material; the cost of floor tiles per square foot varies widely, but our Design Associates will provide a detailed cost estimate, so you know you’re getting great value! 

The cost of solid or engineered wood flooring installation depends on material costs and the time required to remove existing flooring, prepare the area, install the wood flooring, and clean up the space. Installing hardwood floors is complex, but you can trust our experts to do the job right—and quickly! Our wood floor installation services set the industry standard for quality and attention to detail. 

There are so many reasons that more and more homeowners choose hardwood flooring throughout their properties, such as enhanced home value, the timeless look, and the longevity of wood flooring. Wood floors create an appealing ambiance that’s natural, inviting, and universally appreciated. 

There are many waterproof flooring options available from Floor Coverings International®.
Some flooring materials are naturally water resistant, such as luxury vinyl tile, vinyl flooring, ceramic tile, porcelain tile flooring and rubber flooring.
But that’s not all…
Additional water-resistant/repellant coatings may also be available for materials such as carpet and hardwood.

The materials-only cost of hardwood flooring depends on several factors, including the type of wood chosen, the square footage of the room, and the timeline.

Our distinctive design consultations simplify the flooring installation process through four straightforward steps. When you schedule a free meeting with one of our design associates, here’s what you can anticipate:

1. Carpet Installation: Our range includes Anso High Performance Carpet with R2X Stain Resistance Technology, which effectively prevents stains and offers easy cleaning.
2. Bamboo Flooring: Experience the durability of bamboo, a type of hardwood that is highly resistant to scratches.
3. Laminate Flooring: Choose laminate flooring, which is scratch-resistant and provides a cost-effective option for repairs or replacements.
4. Tile Flooring: Opt for tile floors, renowned for their ability to withstand deep scratches from claws, while also being easy to clean.
5. Vinyl Flooring: Consider vinyl floors, which offer easy cleaning, strong stain resistance, and simple maintenance.

For an expanded selection of options, make sure to inquire with your design associate about obtaining pet-friendly floors for your home or office.

The market offers a wide array of flooring brands to choose from, and determining the best one ultimately depends on selecting the features that align with your specific requirements.
At Floor Coverings International®, we establish partnerships with renowned brands such as Shaw, Armstrong, and STAINMASTER® to ensure we provide you with the finest quality flooring materials for your installation project.
However, that’s not all…
If you already have a preferred brand in mind, we can accommodate your request by placing a special order for your installation project. We have the capability to order nearly any flooring material directly from the manufacturer.

Virtually every type of flooring material offers a high-quality version that can endure for a lifetime. Whether you’re considering tile, hardwood, or vinyl flooring, our Design Associates are available to assist you in discovering a product that aligns with your design objectives and durability needs.
Nevertheless, when it comes to commercial spaces, certain durable floors may prove more advantageous than others. For instance, durable carpet squares or luxury vinyl tiles may be considered “softer” compared to stone flooring, but they offer the advantage of being easier to replace, repair, or upgrade as needed.

Most laminated floors last 10 to 25 years, depending on the quality of the product and installation, foot traffic, and maintenance frequency. The best way to extend the lifespan of laminate flooring is to clean up minor spills immediately and sweep regularly.