ĢƵ

close

Many flooring options available for those remodeling

By Steve Ferris sferris@heraldstandard.Com 3 min read
article image -

Homeowners have many choices of flooring materials to use in remodeling projects, and local contractors say most of their customers base their selections on price and preference.

“ItĢƵ a matter of choice and individual taste,” said Dom Polito Sr. of Dom Polito Carpets in Hopwood. “Carpet is still the most popular. Hardwood and laminate are growing. Personally, I like carpet.”

He said some flooring materials are better suited for certain rooms and the amount of foot traffic that the floor will endure should be considered when picking a floor covering.

“I always ask how many are in the family because of traffic,” Polito said.

“Price, room, customer preference – ItĢƵ based on preference and price,” said Mike Shimko of C & M Builders of New Salem.

He said laminate flooring, which homeowners can install it themselves, is easier to clean than hardwood and is becoming a popular choice for dining rooms.

“Hardwood is nailed down and laminate you just snap it together and thatĢƵ it,’ Shimko said.

“Hardwood is a little more labor intensive. A lot of people like laminate. Laminate is cheaper than hardwood. We do a good bit of it.”

He said ceramic tile is a popular choice in kitchens, bathrooms and foyers.

Linoleum or tile are waterproof and best for kitchens in home with young children, Polito said.

“If you have children, thereĢƵ too much spillage for carpet in kitchens. It depends on the family,” Polito said.

He said while snap-together laminate flooring is growing in popularity for many rooms in the house, it should not be used in rooms where spills occur.

“Laminate is not waterproof like ceramic tile and linoleum. You have to be careful.

“If you have a spill on laminate, it will buckle,” Polito said. “They recommend plastic under laminate in older homes.”

He said variations in the materials and construction of carpeting determine how long it will last.

“A tighter weave helps prevent crushing. The commercial type with a low level loop is the best,” Polito said.

“Quality of yarn is also a factor. ThereĢƵ a lot more to it than just color.”

He also advises homeowners to be weary of stores than advertise bargain priced installation of flooring.

Those prices are usually based on square feet, he said, noting that he bases his prices on square yards.

“It sounds cheaper by the square foot. ItĢƵ a hidden cost,” Polito said.

CUSTOMER LOGIN

If you have an account and are registered for online access, sign in with your email address and password below.

NEW CUSTOMERS/UNREGISTERED ACCOUNTS

Never been a subscriber and want to subscribe, click the Subscribe button below.

Starting at $4.79/week.