Floor laying, finishing and refinishing operations are specialty carpentry exposures involving the actual construction and laying of floors in residential or commercial buildings. This may or may not include the installation of floor coverings such as linoleum, tile or carpeting. For new structures, operations can include cutting and installing sub-flooring over a structural frame, installing hardwood flooring and applying layers of paint and/or varnish. Refinishing operations include stripping existing finishes, sanding the floor to a smooth surface and applying finishes.

Linoleum, tile and carpet installation contractors install floor coverings over base flooring in both residential and commercial structures. Operations include measuring the floor to be covered and the linoleum, carpet or tile to be installed, cutting the materials to fit around obstructions, application of adhesive and final installation of the linoleum or other materials. Sometimes there are wood or metal strips or thresholds between rooms.

Other coverages to consider for Floor Installation:Contractors Equipment and Tool Floater (Inland Marine), Umbrella Liability, Building, Business Income with Extra Expense, Bailees Customers, Installation Floater and EPLI.

GL InsuranceBusiness general liability for premises exposures at the contractors shop or office are generally limited due to lack of public access to the premises. If controls in waste collection and fire control are inadequate, fires from woodworking and/or lumber storage operations can affect neighboring businesses or homes. Outdoor storage may create vandalism and attractive nuisance hazards. Jobsite operations include the potential for injury to the public and to other contractors employees and damage to their property or completed work.

Tools, power cords, building materials and scrap materials all pose trip hazards even when not in use. The use of saws and other power or hand tools is inherently hazardous. Employee selection, training and supervision as well as the use of casual labor and employee turnover should be checked since improper use of tools and equipment can cause injuries and damage.

GL exposure for completed operations liability are important because the flooring contractor builds or installs the floors on which all the customers operations take place. Quality control and full compliance with all construction, material and design specifications are necessary. Inadequate monitoring of work orders and change orders may be a concern. Poor record-keeping may necessitate payment of otherwise questionable claims. Inspection and written acceptance of the work by the owner or general contractor is critical and recommended.

Property Insurance Property exposures at the flooring specialists premises are usually limited to those of an office and storage space for supplies, tools and vehicles. The hazards are high if there is a contractors yard. The storage of lumber, paints, finishes, varnishes and shellacs combined with the dust from the cutting of the lumber or wood can create a high fire and explosion exposure.

Commercial AutoAutomobile liability exposures are limited unless lumber and pre-made items are transported by the installer. Hazards of transport include failure to secure the load properly and equipment failure, especially tie-downs and hitches. Age, training, experience and driving records, as well as the age, condition, and maintenance of the vehicles, are all important items to consider. If over-sized items are transported, clear marking of vehicles is important.

Inland Marine CoverageInland marine exposures include contractors tools, installation floater and customers goods (building materials) in transit to the job site. Ownership of the goods is an important consideration for the installation floater exposure. Hazards in transit include shifting and over-sized loads. Improper loading or inadequate tie-down poses a serious loss potential.

Equipment at a job site can be damaged by drops from heights, weather damage or being struck by vehicles. Equipment and supplies left at job sites increase the possibility of loss due to theft and vandalism.

Workers compensationWorkers compensation exposures vary based on the size and nature of the job. Work with hand tools and sharp objects such as saws, knives and nails is common to all types of carpentry and can result in cuts, piercings and accidental amputation. Lifting injuries, hernias, strains, sprains and back injuries may occur. Work at floor level for extended periods of time can result in injuries to knees. Minor injuries may be frequent even when the severity exposure is controlled. Absence of basic safety equipment, such as properly installed guards, steel-toed shoes and eye protection may cause other workers comp risks. Employee selection, training and supervision affect the loss potential.

General Liability Shop.com offers affordable liability insurance quotes for floor installers throughout the U.S. Our Flooring insurance programs include all lines of business insurance, as well as our Target programs for business owners policies (BOPs). Contact one of our business insurance Specialists today at 800-900-8657, or start a quote online now.

Our Top Carrier Solutions for Floor Installation:

Commercial insurance companies use various liability classification systems in order to classify and rate coverage premiums for Flooring Installation. Here are the most common business insurance classifications for Floor Installers:

Business Liability Category: Artisan Contractors

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Business Liability Insurance for Floor Installers

Can engineered wood flooring be sanded and refinished?

It depends on the size of the veneer. Engineered hardwood is a composite material that consists of a backing, core layers of plywood and a real hardwood top layer. The thickness of top layer varies from product to product (usually somewhere between 4 to 8 millimeters). The thicker it is the less chance of sanding all the way through to the plywood. To be on a safe side,we recommend you consult a flooring specialist prior to starting any work on your engineered flooring.

Can I install hardwood flooring in my basement?

Yes, you can. But only engineered hardwood flooring. Solid hardwood doesnt go well with humid places, moisture causes it to expand and warp. Engineered hardwood has a much more stable structure. The layers in it are laid out at a 90-degree angle. This layout reduces the possibility of expansion or contraction in an engineered hardwood board by 80%. Besides, engineered hardwood flooring can be installed directly on concrete sub base.

Which hardwood floor is the most durable?

Unfortunately, there is no concrete answer to this question. The durability of a floor depends on many factors: the materials its made of, the process of manufacturing, the place of installation, the load of everyday use, how often its cleaned and how right its cared for. If all these points are followed correctly, chances are that your floor will live beyond the time you grow tired of seeing it. However, if you want to experiment with different finishes and might need your floor to live through one or two standings, hardwood floor is the best option for you.

Can I see the product at the warehouse?

Unfortunately, there is no showroom at our warehouse at the moment. We can bring free samples with us for our free estimate visit or you can view high-quality images of all our products on our website.

Is there a difference between floor and wall tile?

Wall tiles have more decorative characteristics, they are thin, light and soft, unlike the floor tiles that have been made to handle the weight and much harsher circumstances of floor traffic. It is possible to install flooring tiles on walls if the walls can carry their weight, but the opposite using wall tiles as flooring tiles isnt recommended.

My new carpet has an odor. What should I do?

Its perfectly normal for a new carpet to have a certain smell. Its caused by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) which are harmless and usually disappear within three days after installation.All carpets are strictly controlled following the requirements of Indoor Air Quality and the VOCs emitted by them is one of the lowest among existing flooring materials. If you are prone to bad allergies or have high sensitivity to latex, we advise you avoid the area of carpet installation for up to next 72 hours, same goes for your pets.

Can I install hardwood flooring in the kitchen?

While not directly advised, installing wood floors in close vicinity to water sources that could potentially cause spills isnt directly advised, its by no means impossible. When installing hardwood in the kitchen what matters is your everyday habits and how ready you are to care for your floor appropriately. With any hardwood floor, be it engineered or solid, spills should be wiped up with a dry clean cloth immediately. Otherwise, the water could get into the hardwood plank and permanently stain or damage wood floors finish.

Can I install hardwood floor directly on the concrete slab?

It depends on what kind of hardwood you have in mind. Solid hardwood needs to be nailed down and requires a wooden subfloor. Its possible to install 3/4 thick solid hardwood boards on a concrete slab if you include a vapor barrier and build up a wood subfloor first, which is not the cheapest option. Installing engineered hardwood flooring over a concrete slab is much more recommended. Engineered wood floors can be glued down or floated over a concrete slab, as long as its over a dry, clean, and completely even surface and not below grade.

Is solid hardwood flooring better than engineered hardwood floor?

How good a floor depends on how well it fits the demands of the environment is going to be laid down in.Engineered and solid hardwood floors are both fine and durable flooring options for your home. The biggest merit of solid hardwood flooring is that I can be refinished sometimes as often as up to five times. However, engineered hardwood floors with thicker wear layer can be sanded and refinished just like solid hardwood floors.

The main difference between engineered and solid wood is the structure. The cross-ply construction makes engineered wood more dimensionally stable and up to 80% less likely to be affected by changes in the humidity levels. This means your engineered hardwood floor wont contract and expand seasonally as much as solid hardwood does. Warping and other water-related issues are also less common with engineered hardwood.Another difference is the installation method. To install a solid hardwood floor, youll have to nail it down and will need a wooden subfloor. Engineered hardwood flooring can be glued down or floated.

Is it a good idea to install hardwood floors if I have a dog?

Hardwood flooring offers great support for your four-legged-friend. It offers a warm and comfortable surface for your pet to play and sleep on all year long. However, dogs claws can severely damage your hardwood floors and you might want to opt for a more resilient and less expensive option like vinyl or tile. For more thoughts on the topic, you can read our blog.

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Flooring Supplies and Installation | GC Flooring Pros ...

PandaTip: This template can be used by a representative of a flooring installation and repair company when a homeowner expresses interest in having some work done to their floors. Add project details and info about your company to make it as personalized as possible and wow potential new clients.

PandaTip: This section is used to help potential new clients connect with your business. Gain their trust by adding information about your companys background and areas of expertise. If your company hasnt been around very long, substitute the number of years field with something else that makes your company unique and trustworthy number of clients served or any awards or accreditations, etc.

Thank you for considering [Company.Company] for your flooring installation and repair project! Weve been providing quality flooring installation and repair services since [Year Business Began], and we pride ourselves on creating an outstanding experience for each and every one of our clients.

The flooring world can be confusing, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Our experienced, knowledgeable team can install all types of floors, and were experts on the topics of hardwood, laminate, ceramic tile, floating, engineered hardwood, vinyl sheet, and carpet flooring options. Were happy to help you decide which type of flooring is best for your home, style, and lifestyle. Once decisions have been made, well work quickly and minimize disruption to your day-to-day life, so you can start enjoying your beautiful new floors as soon as soon as possible.

Please review the following proposal, which outlines the scope and details of the project. Im happy to answer any questions, and I look forward to working with you.

Best,

PandaTip: Your satisfied clients are your greatest asset. Ask a few to share a bit about their experience working with you and to serve as references. If they dont feel comfortable having a picture associated with their quote, or youd rather not involve your previous clients, share pictures and descriptions of jobs youve completed.

[Company.Company] repaired our hardwood floors and made them look brand new! The job was completed ahead of schedule and the results are gorgeous. Id recommend them to anyone looking to repair their floors.

Ditching our dingy old carpet was easy with [Company.Company]. Their helpful representatives helped us understand the benefits of all kinds of options, from tile to linoleum, so we knew we made the right choice. The flooring installation process was quick and simple.

PandaTip: This section can be used to explain the services your company offers more in-depth. Explain a bit about what each service entails to help potential clients understand what will take place when they hire your company.

At [Company.Company], flooring is our game. We provide the following services:

Leave all the sanding, staining, and putty mess to us. Well make your old hardwood floors shine brighter than the day they were installed.

Wondering how much flooring material youll need? Schedule an appointment for a free estimate. A member of our knowledgeable team will measure the area, so you know exactly how much carpet, hardwood, tile, stain, or whatever else will be required for the job before we get started. If youre not sure what type of flooring is best for you, ask us! Were happy to talk you through the pros and cons of every type of flooring material, so you can make the right choice for your home and family.

Whether youre a carpet fan or all about tile, well make sure your new flooring gets installed correctly and quickly.

PandaTip: Use this section to outline a specific plan for the homeowners flooring installation or repair project. Include as many details as you can, including what the homeowner will need to have done before you arrive, as well as a tentative timeline for the project.

PandaTip: Be as specific as you can when providing a cost estimate to a potential client. Include the per-item cost for even the smallest necessary material, including tax. Its also important to define when payment is due.

[Company.Company] will provide all materials necessary for successful completion of the outlined job. A detailed list of necessary materials and estimated costs is included below. Any expenses not reflected in the original cost summary will be discussed with [Client.FirstName] [Client.LastName] and detailed in the final cost summary for the project.

The total balance is due upon successful completion of the project. Any portion of the balance left unpaid seven days after the job completion date may be subject to collection efforts.

Total: $927.50

Our projects are typically paid in one lump sum, upon completion of the project. Balances not paid seven days after the job is finished may be subject to collection efforts.

All of us at [Company.Company] greatly appreciate the opportunity to make your flooring dreams come true. By signing below, you agree to the terms and conditions specified in this proposal. If you have any questions about our company, services, or this document, feel free to contact me at [Company.Phone] or [Company.Email].

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Flooring Installation and Repair Proposal Template - Get ...

Elevate the ambiance of your home with high-end flooring from Flooring America of Seattle. Our flooring showroom is stocked with an excellent selection of floors from the industrys leading manufacturers including trusted brands like Shaw, Mannington, and Mohawk to name a few.

Come by our flooring store in Seattle, WA, where a friendly professional will help you select the ideal floor for your next project. Discover your own personal flooring type by visiting us. We have just what you need to improve the appeal of your rooms.

When your floors look old and worn, its time for something new. Visit our home flooring store for reputable name-brand floors that breathe new life into your living areas. Whether you want a new floor at your home or business, you can depend on our experienced and friendly staff to assist you in finding the flooring products that suit your needs. Our showroom features an expansive selection of:

In business in Seattle for more than two decades, Flooring America of Seattle is a local flooring store that is family owned and operated. Our father/daughter team started out focusing on commercial projects, including airport terminals and the iconic downtown Seattle public library. We then branched out to provide floors for residential customers. Whether you have a commercial or a residential flooring project in mind, you can trust us to handle it offering superior quality of both product and installation. We are also a proud member of the following flooring organizations:

Every home is unique, and every family is different. For instance, if you have a busy household filled with kids and pets, you may need a resilient surface, such as tile or laminate, which is easy to clean and maintain. When you are interested in adding character and warmth to your home, solid hardwood might be the perfect floor for you. Our focused approach to customer satisfaction makes shopping at our store very appealing for potential buyers. We help you find a floor that speaks to your unique personal approach and style.

Rejuvenate the look and feel of any room with the right style and color of flooring. We make the process of selecting a floor easy for you with our 5-Star Selection System. It acts as your guide in choosing the perfect flooring for your home. Most importantly, we are always here to help you. Tell us your ideas and your goals, and well determine the best flooring type, color, and texture to suit your particular needs. With the assistance our design specialist, we ensure your room looks exactly the way you want without a great deal of wasted time and effort on your part.

Other flooring stores dont compare with us due to our expansive selection of home flooring and affordable prices. In addition to offering a variety of flooring options, we are your destination for floor installation from certified contractors. You can trust that our flooring installers are equipped with the expertise to properly remove your aged or damaged floors, replacing them with the brand-new floors of your choice. We also offer dust-free, non-toxic wood floor refinishing from our in-house Bona Certified hardwood floor refinishers.

We like to think that set the standard for flooring in our city, combining the best selection in the area with the best service possible. We harness the global buying power of the Flooring America brand to negotiate low prices on quality flooring materials that are designed to last. Fans of modern or traditional floors can get what they want for their homes without stretching their budgets at our flooring showroom. Our floors enhance the visual appeal and value of any room throughout your home.

Get inspired at our store! Its easy and enjoyable to shop at our store. Not only do we feature design resources and product video tips on our website, but we also offer a design magazine for you to use as you browse. You may have a concept of the type of flooring you want, but you dont know how to achieve it. Let us take your concept to the next level. We have thousands of styles, colors, and flooring varieties to choose from. Allow us to provide assistance in our store today.

Why would you shop for home flooring anywhere else? Other floor stores dont offer the selection, price, and exceptional services as our company. In addition to our impressive showroom and comprehensive flooring installation, our Ultimate Confidence Guarantee ensures your complete satisfaction. Contact us for more information about our special guarantees. No matter the type of floor or the scope of the project, you can rest assured that our trained crew of installation technicians can handle any job.

Eliminate the confusion involved in starting a home flooring improvement project by using our team of experienced contractors. Your floors will look fantastic for years to come, and your friends may begin asking you where they can get great-looking flooring like yours.

Contact us for personal assistance if you need new floors or home products in your home. We proudly serve clients throughout Seattle, Bellevue, Bothell, Edmonds, and Issaquah, Washington, as well as the surrounding areas.

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Flooring | Seattle, WA - Flooring America of Seattle

Does a flooring contractor need to be licensed?

In most states, contractors are required to have a license before taking a job. Some states also require registration. To be licensed, contractors must pass an exam and meet certain qualifications that prove he or she is a competent flooring contractor. Registration is simply a list of who will be performing a job.

How long does a typical flooring installation take?

The time it takes to install flooring depends on the type of flooring and the size of the room or rooms involved in the project. In one day, a typical contractor can usually install up to 2,000 square feet of carpet, 600 square feet of hardwood or laminate, or 400 square feet of tile or stone.

What are questions to ask when choosing a flooring contractor?

Do flooring contractors need insurance?

Legally, insurance is not necessary, but it's a good idea for flooring contractors to have it. When hiring a flooring contractor, ask whether the business is insured. If it's not, consider that a red flag.

What information should a flooring contractor know about flooring options?

A flooring contractor should know the pros and cons of each flooring option. These might include pricing, time of installation, durability, and average lifespan of the material.

What should be in the contract with a flooring contractor?

In your contract, include:

What types of flooring projects can be fixed without a contractor?

Flooring can be DIY with the right tools and know-how. Certain materials like hardwood and tile are difficult to install yourself if you have never done it before. However, you can opt for easier-to-install options, like engineered wood or carpet squares, which are simpler than wall-to-wall carpet.

What types of floor materials will a flooring contractor install?

Most flooring contractors can install:

What does a flooring contractor cost?

Flooring materials costs range from as little as $1 per square foot, to as high as $100 per square foot for materials like high-end tile. The cost of labor depends on the scope and details of the project, but is usually comprises around 20 percent of the overall budget.Carpet is generally the least expensive, with average costs around $5.94 per square foot. Hardwood, on the other hand, is typically the most expensive. Average costs come to around $9.68 per square foot.

What is a flooring contractor?

Flooring contractors install the floor surface, including carpeting if desired, as well as underlayment--the layer directly beneath the floor surface. They typically do not install subflooring, which is the layer that rests on top of the joists.

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Secaucus, NJ Flooring Installation - Yellowpages.com

Wood Floor Fitting Services in Hertfordshire

Wood Flooring GB gives an artistic look to your floors that gives it a unique touch.

Since we have been in business for long, we provide excellent services to meet the expectations of our clients. Our trained and skilled craftsmen are exclusively trained in floor installation. Our exemplary service to customers has also been highly appreciated by the clients.

We have set standards for our hardwood flooring fitting teams. Whether you request for an intricate marquetry, chessboard effect, spiral staircase design, our craftsman will fulfil it.

The cost of hardwood floor installation in Hertfordshire is cut-throat. It ranges generally from 150- 400 per square metre.

The cost of the floor will be determined by the way it is being fitted whether it is floated, nailed down, glued down, or fixed directly to joists. The other responsible factors would be the preparation work required, whether the floor is pre-finished or is it being sanded and finished on site.

With our expert services we put in our best to all wood floor installation projects. Irrespective of the size of the establishment; whether small or large, our craftsman can handle the installation of wooden floors easily. Our trademark that makes us distinct is our quality craftsmanship and superior service.

Ensuring all endeavours to be on time, we assure maximum customer satisfaction. The hardwood floors which we we install blend beauty, elegance and value for it to last for a generation.

Whether you choose laminated, solid wood or engineered flooring, our professionals give their best efforts to give a transforming look to your floors. The flooring is fixed well which requires less maintenance and care.

You can also contact us and we shall drop in to your place to inspect the house according to which we shall advice you the best hardwood flooring installation solutions.

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Wooden Floor Installation London - Wood Floor Fitting ...

Noise is the hard sound caused from various sources. The noise from the industrial equipment, noise in the industries, from society noise and even from the neighbors all are considered to be the prominent factors contributing to the noise pollution. The introduction of acoustic materials for the acoustic products facilitates the users to reduce the noise levels in the premises. The construction sites, transportation and other internal and external factors produce sound adding to the noise pollution. The acoustic floor is the different floor or carpet used in such a way that it can control and reduce the noise levels in the area by absorbing the sound waves. The increasing demand for the industrial applications and growing awareness among the people about the severity of the noise pollution are few of the causes for the steady increase in the request of the acoustic floor market in the forecast period. Acoustic floors control the transmission of noise and vibration. Installation of acoustic floors in the residential areas also provides the solution for the noise control.

The factors favoring the growth of lightweight acoustic flooring systems include an increase in the indication about the health issues in the industrial and commercial areas due to increasing the noise levels, growing awareness among the people regarding the health effects of constant noise and ease of installation of acoustic floors. Moreover, the stringent government rules and regulations regarding the noise levels in different areas at different times restrict the users to use the noisy equipment. However, the prominent contributor to the noise pollution in the residential area is the community noise and noisy neighbor. Due to increase in the urbanization, the number of multi storied buildings are high, and thus the disturbances from the community or the neighbors are great. The lightweight acoustic flooring system proved to be the best solution for the noise control. The noise pollution has severe health effects such as hearing loss, disturbed sleep and increase in blood pressure, mental illness and even heart attacks. These factors thus contribute to the growth in the demand for the lightweight acoustic flooring systems.

However, the various factors such as availability of substitutes such as sound damping, software for the noise absorption and the cost of installation can affect the global lightweight acoustic floor system market in the forecast period 2017-2027.

Global Lightweight Acoustic Floor Systems: Segmentation: Based on the type of flooring, global lightweight acoustic floor systems market is segmented into: Fixed, Spring; Based on the type of material used, global lightweight acoustic floor systems market is segmented into: Concrete, Rubber, Wood, Fiberglass, Foam; Based on the application, global lightweight acoustic floor systems market is segmented into: Industrial, Manufacturing, Construction, Mining, Energy, Automotive; Commercial: Hospitals, Hotels, Education Institutes, Offices, Sport Venues, Art and Entertainment; Residential

The Global Lightweight Acoustic Floor Systems market regarding flooring type is gaining traction through its spring solution. Fixed type of flooring is the conventional flooring process where the construction is made whereas the spring solution leads to cost effective solution as it installs the springs and the acoustic material over the floor to reduce the noise levels. Regarding materials, the fiberglass, wood, and concrete lead the material market for the lightweight acoustic flooring system.

In the application segment, the global lightweight acoustic floor system market is driven by the commercial applications. The use of light weight acoustic flooring system finds major applications in offices, education institutes, healthcare, hotels and much more. Hospital and hotels segment is expected to gain traction in the future owing to significant effects of noise on the patients and the environment.

Geographically, the global light weight acoustic flooring system is segmented into seven regions namely, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Japan and the Middle East and Africa. The North America and Europe are the mature markets regarding demand generation due to increasing concern about the noise pollutions. The adoption of advanced technology and methodology in these areas facilitate the growth of acoustic flooring system in these regions. Asia Pacific is expected to lead the market in the forecast period due to increasing adoption of the acoustic product in the construction, government rules and regulations restricting the noise levels in the regions and increase in the noise pollution as compared to previous few years. These factors trigger the demand for the acoustic flooring system in Asia Pacific.

Some of the prominent players for the lightweight acoustic flooring systems includes: Mason UK, Kinetics Noise Control Inc, Farrat Isolevel Ltd, Rockcote Resene Ltd, Monarfloor Acoustic Systems Ltd, Cellecta Ltd, Knauf Insulation, Saint-Gobain Isover, Ubiq, YOSHINO GYPSUM CO., LTD.

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Interesting Research Report on the Future of Lightweight Acoustic Floor Systems Market 2017 2027 - LANews By Abhishek Budholiya (press release)...

Ken Gillespie Photography/Getty ImagesHardwood floors are considered a timeless style and can be used in any room of your home. Butthe simple elegance and durability of hardwooddoesnt comecheap.

How much do hardwood floors cost?Hardwood floors can be pricey, especially when compared with other flooring types. In fact, the average cost of covering a 250-square-foot area is $2,300.

Before you install hardwood, the floor must be properly prepared for the new surface. Most homeowners have to factor in and budget for the prep work of a new hardwood floor.

First, old flooring must be removed and disposed of. Then, the floor has to be prepared with a subfloor the bottom-most layer of a floor before mounting the hardwood to it.

From the wood type to wood finish and all manner of decorative detail and patterns, there are multiple decisions when it comes to choosing hardwood flooring. Deciding on the hardwood floors you want is as much about the aesthetic as it is about how much you want to spend.

For example, engineered hardwood, or flooring manufactured out of wood veneer, is relatively inexpensive and highly durable but usually not as attractive as solid hardwood.

Choosing a solid wood floor provides a more natural feel and is easier to sand, stain and finish to your specifications. However, some solid woods are not as durable and may dent or scratch easily. Its important to consider how much wear and tear your floors will receive before making a final decision.

Whether youre installing hardwood floors on your own or hiring a contractor, there are some additional materials you may need to complete the project.

Adding borders and step detailing are extra costs but are usually necessary for completing the installation against walls or in adjoining doorways.

In addition, you will need to consider the cost of disposing of your old flooring. If youre working with a contractor, this cost will be rolled into your final bill. If youre doing the removal yourself, you will need to dispose of the old floor yourself.

While you may never be able to wholly recreate the look and craftsmanship of a professional flooring job, there are ways to save money and still have flooring that looks good and holds up over time.

However, installing hardwood flooring on your own comes with its own hefty investment of sweat equity.

Even so, some homeowners feel that investing their own labor into the project is worth the financial savings of paying for a professional flooring company.

Installation of traditional hardwood flooring can be contracted out to a professional flooring company that will provide the materials, prep work and labor for completing your flooring job.

The cost for each component is rolled into the final bill that you can pay as a lump sum or in installments.

If youre looking for high quality flooring that will last for years, you should consider the expense of hiring a professional flooring company.

Not only does professional installers have the experience and equipment necessary to install flooring, but they also have access to better quality flooring materials than average consumers do not.

While hardwood floors come with a sizable price tag, their durability make them a worthwhile home investment if youve got the budget to splurge.

To be sure, they will improve your property value and be a selling point to any potential buyer, should you decide to sell your home.

Costs can vary widely, depending on which type of wood you choose and whether you decide to do the project yourself or contract with a professional flooring company.

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How much do hardwood floors cost? - Bankrate.com

With the new school year well underway, the on-again, off-again saga of the mercury-tainted Pine Strawberry School gymnasium floor continues with few answers as to when the normally heavily-used facility will reopen to students and faculty.

At this time, it is difficult to anticipate a completion date for this project due to the many technical elements and requirements of the Arizona Schools Facility Board (ASFB), said former school principal-superintendent Linda ODell who continues to work for the district part-time, even though she officially retired in July.

Officials expected to complete the project by the beginning of the 2017-18 school year, but some teachers speculate it might not be done until well into the second semester

The removal of the old floor appeared complete in mid-summer, but installation of the new floor never began because, the mercury vapor levels exceeded the threshold established for installation of the new floor, said ODell.

Once the environmental testing company determines vapor levels are safe, installation of the new floor can begin. However, the company will not return to test for mercury until the opened gym space has been ventilated for at least two weeks.

The delivery of the floor materials and actual installation could take up to eight weeks.

In the meantime, the district sealed off the cafeteria, which is adjacent to the gym.

As for physical education classes, adjustments have been made to daily schedules to ensure students have the opportunity to participate in PE, said ODell.

Currently, PE teacher Dean Pederson holds classes outdoors. Once winter weather arrives, he will modify his curriculum for limited indoor space.

The ASFB is overseeing the grant-funded project, which includes excavation and replacing the original floor. In October 2015, officials determined the floor was emitting potentially harmful levels of mercury vapor, which can harm the nervous, digestive and immune systems.

In June, a crew from Sagebrush Restoration in Phoenix removed the original floor and began a diamond grinding process to remove mercury-tainted adhesive from the joints, ODell said.

Once finished with that task, project managers will await an OK from the ASFB so the Phoenix-based firm Sun Country Floors can install new flooring.

The new Elastiplus floor will not contain any mercury-based products.

The manufacturer, Conner Sports, advertises the floor as a seamless, poured-in-place polyurethane surface that exhibits excellent shock absorbent qualities.

The University of Idaho recently installed an Elastiplus floor in its student recreation center.

Campus Recreation Associate Director Gordon Gresch said it has exceeded all expectations.

The district will also install new bleachers.

Common problem

Pine Strawberry School is only one of many districts around the state with rubberized gym floors emitting mercury vapors.

In the past three years, ASFB has found 73 floors of concern in schools, hospitals and other institutions.

The St. David Unified School District first discovered the problem with the rubberized gym floors.

At Pine Strawberry School, officials discovered the mercury emissions when trying to repair cracks in the cement floor below the Tartan rubberized surface installed in 1988.

The district on Jan. 11, 2016 shut down the gym for about four months. The school board voted to reopen the facility after officials said tests showed mercury had not exceeded safe levels.

Students used the gym until May 22, 2017, when the current remediation project began. Originally, the district wanted only to repair the cracks in the floor. However, the ASFB board approved replacing it, including the concrete subfloor.

That decision led to the rediscovery of unsafe levels of mercury vapor, leading to the still open-ended remediation

Link:
Mercury-tainted gym floor saga continues - Payson Roundup

Builder Magazine

Today's Popular Flooring Trends: Vinyl, Ceramic, and Hardwood, Oh My! Builder Magazine Suddenly there are so many options in this burgeoning category that consumers can't help but take notice. Embossed-in-register design capabilities, strong visuals, and waterproof features are winning over end-users. Improved and more flexible ... and more »

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Today's Popular Flooring Trends: Vinyl, Ceramic, and Hardwood, Oh My! - Builder Magazine