Flooring Installation Contractors: 10 Powerful Reasons to Choose
Finding the Right Flooring Installation Contractors: What You Need to Know
If you’re looking for flooring installation contractors, here’s what you need to know:
- Average Cost: $1,500-$4,500 per project depending on material and square footage
- Timeline: Most installations take 1-3 days with a professional crew
- Qualifications: Look for contractors with proper licensing, insurance, and industry certifications (like INSTALL Warranty)
- Process: Free estimate → material selection → installation → final inspection
- DIY vs Pro: Professional installation includes warranties, proper tools, and expert craftsmanship
The U.S. flooring installation market was valued at over $27 billion in 2023, with more than 100,000 flooring installation businesses operating nationwide. Choosing the right flooring installation contractors can make the difference between a stunning, long-lasting floor and a costly mistake.
Professional flooring contractors handle everything from initial consultation to final cleanup. They bring specialized knowledge about different flooring materials, proper installation techniques, and how to handle unexpected challenges like uneven subfloors or moisture issues.
“The experience of the process is just as important as the results,” as one industry expert puts it. When you hire professionals, you’re not just paying for the installation itself, but for peace of mind and a floor that will perform well for years to come.
I’m Francisco Romero, owner of Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. with over 15 years of experience working with and training flooring installation contractors throughout the Greater Boston area. My team and I have installed hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile flooring in countless homes and businesses, changing spaces with quality craftsmanship.
Key terms for flooring installation contractors:
– engineered hardwood flooring
– wooden floor installation
– hardwood flooring refinishing contractors
What Flooring Installation Contractors Do & Why They Matter
Ever wondered what happens between dreaming about new floors and actually enjoying them? That’s where flooring installation contractors come in. These skilled professionals are the wizards who transform bare subfloors into beautiful, functional surfaces that lift your entire space.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we see flooring as much more than just something to walk on—it’s the foundation of your home’s beauty, comfort, and value. Our flooring installation contractors bring years of Massachusetts know-how to every project, ensuring your new floors will look amazing and stand the test of time.
Think of professional flooring installation contractors as your floor’s best friends. We handle everything from the first measurement to the final polish. We’ll assess your space, guide you through material choices, tear out old flooring, prepare the subfloor properly, install your new floors with precision, and finish with those important details like trim work and transitions. And yes, we clean up after ourselves too!
Why does professional installation matter so much? Even the most expensive flooring can fail if installed incorrectly. Those horror stories about buckling hardwood, lifting tile, or separating vinyl planks? Almost always installation issues. Plus, we understand local building codes and ensure your flooring meets all requirements—especially important for commercial spaces where specific fire ratings and accessibility standards come into play.
Core Services Offered by Flooring Installation Contractors
When you welcome our flooring installation contractors into your home or business, you’re getting a comprehensive package of specialized services that DIY simply can’t match.
We start with a free, detailed estimate that thoroughly assesses your space, material needs, and labor costs—no obligation and no surprises. Before any new flooring goes down, we ensure your subfloor is properly prepared—leveling uneven spots, repairing damage, addressing those annoying squeaks, and installing new underlayment if needed.
One of the most overlooked aspects of flooring installation is moisture testing. Excess moisture is the silent killer of beautiful floors, so our professionals conduct proper testing and implement solutions when needed. This simple step can save you thousands in future repairs.
The installation itself is where our expertise truly shines. Our skilled technicians follow manufacturer specifications and industry best practices to ensure your floors perform beautifully for years. We pay special attention to trim and transition work—those finishing touches like baseboards, quarter round, thresholds, and transition strips that give your project that polished, professional look.
Don’t worry about the mess, either. Our disposal services handle removal and proper disposal of your old flooring materials, and our thorough cleanup leaves your space ready to enjoy immediately. And our relationship doesn’t end when we pack up our tools—we provide ongoing maintenance guidance and stand behind our work with solid warranties.
Good flooring installation contractors don’t just install floors—we create foundations for beautiful living. With the right professional team, your new floors will improve your space and provide lasting value for years to come.
Flooring Materials & Which Pro to Hire
The type of flooring you choose will largely determine which flooring installation contractors you should invite into your home. Think of it like finding the right doctor—you wouldn’t see a cardiologist for a sprained ankle! At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we specialize in multiple flooring types, but we believe it’s important for homeowners to understand what makes each material unique.
When you’re browsing samples and falling in love with different materials, keep in mind that each comes with its own installation requirements:
Solid Hardwood Flooring brings timeless beauty to any space, but requires patience during installation. Your floor needs time to acclimate to your home’s environment (typically 3-7 days) before installation even begins. A skilled hardwood installer will understand proper expansion gaps and have specialized tools like professional-grade flooring nailers. For the best results, look for contractors certified by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA).
Engineered Hardwood offers the beauty of real wood with added versatility. Unlike solid hardwood, it can be installed below grade (like in basements), making it popular for New England homes. Your installer should be knowledgeable about different installation methods—floating, glue-down, or nail-down—and understand which underlayment works best in your specific situation.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) & Tile (LVT) has become the darling of the flooring world, and for good reason! It’s waterproof, durable, and comes in stunning designs. However, don’t be fooled by its DIY-friendly reputation—professional installation makes a huge difference. A perfectly level subfloor is critical, and experienced flooring installation contractors will have the skills to steer tricky cuts around doorjambs and transitions.
Laminate Flooring has come a long way since its early days. Today’s options offer remarkable realism at budget-friendly prices. The floating installation with click-lock systems seems straightforward, but proper underlayment selection for sound dampening and moisture protection requires professional knowledge. An experienced installer will create those seamless transitions that make your floors look truly custom.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tile installation is truly an art form. Beyond the specialized cutting tools required, your contractor needs a deep understanding of proper substrate preparation, thinset selection, and grout application. For bathrooms or other wet areas, waterproofing expertise is essential. Look for contractors with Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) certification for best results.
Carpet installation might seem simple, but proper stretching is crucial to prevent those unsightly wrinkles and bubbles that can develop over time. Professional carpet installers (ideally with CFI certification) know how to create nearly invisible seams and properly match patterns.
Specialty Materials like bamboo, cork, and concrete coatings often have unique installation requirements. For these distinctive options, seek contractors with specific experience and ask to see examples of previous installations.
Matching Flooring Installation Contractors to Each Material Type
Finding your perfect flooring match is only half the battle—you also need the right professional to install it. Here’s my insider guidance on matching flooring installation contractors to your specific material:
For hardwood specialists, look beyond basic experience. Seek NWFA certification and contractors who invest in specialized tools like professional-grade moisture meters and sanders. At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., our hardwood specialists have installed thousands of square feet throughout Massachusetts. We understand how New England’s unique climate affects wood flooring and plan installations accordingly.
When installing vinyl and laminate, your contractor should be familiar with various click-lock systems and have the precision cutting capabilities needed for complex layouts. A true professional will discuss appropriate underlayment options and explain how temperature and humidity affect your specific product.
For tile installation, expertise in waterproofing techniques and setting materials is non-negotiable. Your contractor should be able to explain different grout options and demonstrate their precision cutting capabilities, especially for complex patterns or mosaics.
Carpet professionals with CFI certification bring valuable expertise in proper stretching techniques and seam creation. If you’ve chosen a patterned carpet, pattern-matching expertise becomes even more crucial.
The gold standard across all flooring types is INSTALL certification—the industry’s most rigorous training program. INSTALL Warranty Contractors provide extended guarantees on their workmanship, offering peace of mind that your flooring will perform beautifully for years to come.
When interviewing potential contractors, don’t be shy! Ask what percentage of their business involves your chosen material and whether they have specialized training in that area. Request references for similar projects they’ve completed, and if possible, visit a previous installation to see their work firsthand.
Proper installation is just as important as the quality of the material itself. Even premium flooring can fail prematurely if installed incorrectly. That’s why choosing the right flooring installation contractors is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your flooring journey.
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How to Choose Qualified Flooring Installation Contractors
Selecting the right flooring installation contractors might just be the most important decision you’ll make for your entire flooring project. After all, even the most luxurious materials can look disappointing with poor installation—while expert craftsmanship can make even budget-friendly options shine.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we always encourage homeowners to do their homework before hiring any contractor. Your floors are a significant investment, and you deserve professionals who will treat them with care and expertise.
Proper Licensing and Insurance should be your first checkpoint when vetting contractors. In Massachusetts, legitimate flooring professionals should carry a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration. Don’t just take their word for it—ask to see proof. Also confirm they maintain adequate liability insurance (at least $1 million in coverage) and workers’ compensation for their team. Always request a certificate of insurance before any work begins. This simple step protects you from potential financial nightmares if something goes wrong.
Industry Certifications tell you volumes about a contractor’s commitment to quality. The gold standard in the flooring world is INSTALL certification, which requires rigorous training and testing. For specific flooring types, look for NWFA certification (hardwood), CFI certification (carpet), or CTEF certification (tile). The cream of the crop are INSTALL Warranty Contractors, who stand behind their work with extended guarantees—a true sign of confidence in their craftsmanship.
When it comes to Reputation and Experience, dig deeper than just the company website. Check Google, Yelp, and Angi for honest customer reviews. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from recent clients who had similar projects to yours. A reputable contractor will happily share photos of completed work and discuss how long they’ve been installing your specific flooring type. At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we’re proud of our track record and happy to connect you with satisfied customers.
Professionalism shows up in the details. Do they respond promptly to your calls or emails? Do they arrive on time for appointments? Professional flooring installation contractors should provide detailed, written estimates (never just verbal quotes), maintain a clean, professional appearance, and clearly explain their process and timeline. These might seem like small things, but they often indicate how the entire project will unfold.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of Local Knowledge. Contractors familiar with Massachusetts building codes understand our unique regional climate considerations (those humid summers and freezing winters can affect flooring performance). Established relationships with local suppliers also mean they can source quality materials efficiently and often at better prices.
Throughout our service areas—from Beverly to Woburn and all communities in between—we emphasize these qualifications. While our team at Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. meets and exceeds these standards, we believe all homeowners should know what to look for, regardless of who they ultimately hire.
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Key Questions to Ask Flooring Installation Contractors
Before signing on the dotted line with any flooring installation contractors, arm yourself with these essential questions. The answers you receive will speak volumes about their professionalism and suitability for your project.
About their expertise, ask how long they’ve been installing your specific type of flooring. Experience with hardwood doesn’t necessarily translate to expertise with luxury vinyl or ceramic tile. Inquire whether they’ll use their own employees or subcontractors, and how many people will be working on your installation. A clear chain of supervision is crucial for quality control. Don’t forget to request references for similar projects they’ve completed recently, and ask about their installers’ training and certifications.
Timeline and logistics questions are equally important. “What’s your projected timeline for my installation?” should get you a specific answer, not vague generalities. Clarify whether they’ll order and supply the materials or if that’s your responsibility. Understanding what preparation work is included in your quote can prevent surprise charges later. Smart homeowners also ask about the contractor’s process for handling unexpected issues like damaged subfloors, and their policy on change orders if project scope changes mid-installation.
Warranty and after-service details reveal how much a contractor stands behind their work. What warranty do they offer on installation? Some offer just 90 days, while quality contractors might guarantee their work for years. How do they handle service calls if issues arise after installation? What maintenance recommendations do they have for your new floors? Some contractors even offer maintenance services after installation—a nice bonus if you’re busy or prefer professional care.
Business practices questions help protect your investment. Is their estimate free and how detailed will it be? What payment schedule do they require? (Industry standard is typically a deposit followed by payments tied to project milestones.) Will they pull permits when required by local code? What’s their cancellation policy? And perhaps most importantly, will they provide a written contract with all specifics included?
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we welcome these questions because we know informed customers make our best partners. We encourage all homeowners to ask these questions of any flooring installation contractors they’re considering. The right professionals will appreciate your thoroughness rather than being defensive.
Red Flags When Interviewing Flooring Installation Contractors
While searching for flooring installation contractors, keep an eye out for these warning signs that might indicate potential problems down the road.
No written quotes or vague estimates should immediately raise concerns. Professional contractors always provide detailed, written estimates that break down labor, materials, and additional costs. If someone only offers verbal quotes or “ballpark figures,” they’re likely setting you up for unpleasant surprises later. At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we believe transparency in pricing builds trust from the start.
Poor communication often foreshadows project headaches. If a contractor is slow to return calls or emails during the estimate phase (when they’re trying to win your business), imagine how responsive they’ll be when issues arise during installation. Watch out for vague answers to specific questions or pressure tactics to sign immediately. Quality contractors explain the installation process clearly and give you time to make informed decisions.
Insurance shortfalls can leave you financially vulnerable. Be wary of contractors reluctant to provide proof of insurance or those carrying coverage below industry standards (minimum $1 million liability). Absence of workers’ compensation is particularly problematic—if an uninsured worker is injured in your home, you could be held liable. Always verify coverage before work begins.
Missing references or portfolio examples might indicate limited experience or unhappy customers. Established flooring installation contractors should eagerly share photos of completed work and contact information for recent clients. If they can’t or won’t, consider it a significant red flag.
Unusual payment terms often signal financial instability or worse. Be cautious of contractors demanding full payment upfront, operating on cash-only policies, or offering no clear payment schedule. Extremely low deposits (under 10%) might actually indicate cash flow problems. Industry standard is typically 25-33% deposit, with remaining payments tied to project milestones.
Contract issues can lead to disputes and disappointment. Professional contractors provide detailed written agreements covering timeline, materials, warranty, and what happens if problems arise. If important terms are missing or the contractor seems reluctant to put promises in writing, proceed with caution.
Unrealistic promises should trigger skepticism. If a timeline seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of guarantees of “no disruption” during installation or claims that no preparation work will be needed without thorough inspection of your space. Honest contractors set realistic expectations.
Licensing problems are deal-breakers. Always verify that contractors’ licenses are current and legitimate with state authorities. Be cautious of businesses operating under multiple names, which can be a tactic to escape poor reviews or legal issues.
Trust your instincts when meeting with flooring installation contractors. If something feels off during your consultation, it’s worth exploring other options. The right contractor will make you feel confident and comfortable with your flooring project from start to finish.
Pricing, Process & Timeline: What to Expect
Let’s talk dollars and cents—because when it comes to flooring installation contractors, understanding the costs helps you plan your budget and recognize a fair deal when you see one.
The price tag on your flooring project will vary depending on where you live, what materials you choose, and the unique features of your space. But don’t worry, I’ll break it down for you in simple terms.
For labor costs alone, you’re typically looking at $1.50-$4 per square foot for carpet installation, $2-$8 for laminate, $2-$7 for vinyl, $3-$15 for hardwood, and $4-$14 for tile. These are just the installation costs—not including the materials themselves.
When you factor in both materials and labor, the total investment based on internet data (not Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. pricing) typically falls into these ranges:
Carpet: $3-$12 per square foot (so a 500 sq ft room would cost about $1,500-$6,000)
Laminate: $4-$15 per square foot ($2,000-$7,500 for 500 sq ft)
Vinyl: $5-$15 per square foot ($2,500-$7,500 for 500 sq ft)
Hardwood: $8-$25 per square foot ($4,000-$12,500 for 500 sq ft)
Tile: $7-$30 per square foot ($3,500-$15,000 for 500 sq ft)
These are average ranges based on internet data. Your actual costs might be different—especially if you’re choosing premium materials or have a particularly challenging space to work with.
Several factors can nudge your price up or down. Your location matters (labor costs more in some regions than others), as does the condition of your subfloor. A complex room layout might require more material due to waste. And don’t forget about the extras: removing old flooring, moving furniture, installing baseboards, or tackling stairs (which are typically priced per step).
Most reputable flooring installation contractors follow a similar payment structure. You’ll likely pay a small deposit (about 10-30%) to secure your spot in their schedule, then a larger payment (30-50%) when your materials arrive, with the final payment due when the job is complete and you’re satisfied with the work.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we believe in transparency. Our estimates break down all costs associated with your project, so you know exactly what you’re paying for—quality workmanship and materials at a fair price.
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Typical Step-by-Step Process with Flooring Installation Contractors
Working with professional flooring installation contractors is like following a well-choreographed dance—each step builds on the last to create a beautiful final result. Here’s what that journey typically looks like:
We start with an initial consultation and estimate. This is where we discuss your vision, budget, and preferences while examining your space. We’ll take preliminary measurements and talk through material options that might work well in your home, giving you a ballpark figure and timeline.
Next comes a more detailed in-home measurement visit. This is where precision matters—we’ll measure your rooms exactly, check out your subfloor condition, identify any potential challenges, figure out exactly how much material you’ll need, and plan how your new flooring will transition to adjacent spaces.
After that, you’ll receive a formal proposal and contract. This includes a detailed written estimate that spells out specific materials and quantities, labor costs, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty information. Once you’re comfortable with everything, we’ll sign the contract and collect a deposit.
Then we move to material ordering and scheduling. We’ll order your materials with a little extra (typically 5-10% overage) to account for cuts and waste. We’ll schedule delivery to allow time for acclimation if needed (especially important for hardwood) and confirm your installation date based on when everything will be ready.
Before installation day, there’s some pre-installation preparation. This involves removing furniture (either by you or us), taking out the existing flooring, making any necessary subfloor repairs, allowing materials to acclimate, and ensuring your home’s temperature and humidity are at normal living conditions.
On installation day(s), we’ll do a final check of your subfloor, plan the layout of materials, and then install everything according to manufacturer specifications. We clean as we go and provide daily updates if your project spans multiple days.
Upon completion, we do a thorough cleaning of the installation area, help replace furniture, and conduct a final walk-through with you to make sure you’re completely satisfied. We’ll address any immediate concerns or touch-ups and provide care and maintenance instructions for your new floors.
Finally, we follow up with a check-in call a few days after completion to make sure everything is settling properly. We’ll address any adjustment issues, review your warranty coverage, and offer recommendations for scheduled maintenance.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we follow this proven process for all our installations throughout Massachusetts. Our flooring installation contractors prioritize clear communication every step of the way, so you always know what’s happening with your project.
Timeline Graphic for a 500 sq ft Hardwood Job
Wondering how long your hardwood flooring project will take? For a standard 500 square foot installation, you’re looking at about 1-2 weeks from start to finish, with the actual installation taking 2-3 days.
The journey begins with consultation and measurement (Days 1-2). We’ll meet with you, take detailed measurements, help you select the perfect materials, and present our proposal.
Then comes the preparation phase (Days 3-7), where we finalize the contract, collect a deposit, order your materials, and schedule delivery to your home.
Hardwood requires an acclimation period (Days 8-10), where the wood adjusts to your home’s environment. During this time, you can prepare by removing small items from the installation area, and we’ll do a final pre-installation check.
The exciting installation phase happens on Days 11-13. On the first day, we’ll move furniture, remove your old flooring, and prepare the subfloor. Day two is when we install the hardwood, and on day three, we complete any trim work, clean up thoroughly, and conduct a final inspection with you.
We wrap up with a follow-up (Day 14), checking in to make sure everything is perfect after 24 hours, addressing any immediate concerns, and reviewing care instructions.
Different flooring types follow slightly different timelines. Carpet and vinyl often move faster since they don’t require acclimation periods. Tile installations might take longer because mortar and grout need time to cure properly.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., our flooring installation contractors always provide realistic timelines based on your specific project. We build in buffer days for unexpected challenges because we understand that the best projects are the ones that unfold smoothly, without rushing.
Professional Installers vs DIY: The Winning Edge
When it comes to changing your home with new flooring, you might be tempted to save money by going the DIY route. But before you grab that nail gun or tile cutter, let’s talk about why professional flooring installation contractors often provide the better value in the long run.
Think of flooring installation like baking a soufflé – it looks straightforward until you try it yourself and realize there’s an art to getting it just right. Professional flooring installation contractors bring years of experience that shows in every plank, tile, or carpet seam. Their expertise ensures perfectly aligned materials, properly secured installations, and those professional finishing touches that make all the difference.
One of the most overlooked benefits of hiring professionals is warranty protection. Did you know that most manufacturers’ warranties require professional installation? It’s true! When you DIY, you might inadvertently void your flooring warranty. Professional contractors not only preserve your manufacturer’s warranty but typically offer their own workmanship guarantees (usually 1-2 years). Some contractors with INSTALL certification even provide extended warranties that can last a lifetime – that’s peace of mind you simply can’t get with DIY.
“Time is money,” as the saying goes, and nowhere is this more true than with flooring projects. What might take you weeks of evenings and weekends can often be completed by professionals in just a few days. No need to rent specialized tools, learn new skills through trial and error, or take time off work. Plus, the pros handle all the cleanup and disposal, leaving you with nothing but beautiful new floors to enjoy.
Safety and building code compliance are serious considerations that DIYers often overlook. Professional installers ensure your flooring meets all relevant regulations, properly handle potentially hazardous materials (like old flooring that might contain asbestos), and address any structural concerns that might arise during installation.
The investment in professional installation typically pays off in the long run. According to recent studies, homes with professionally installed flooring can see up to a 70-80% return on investment when selling, compared to just 40-60% for DIY installations. This difference is particularly noticeable with hardwood flooring, where proper installation directly impacts both appearance and longevity.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we’ve seen many homeowners who initially tried the DIY route ultimately spend more fixing mistakes than they would have investing in professional installation from the start. While we certainly respect the DIY spirit, some projects really do benefit from professional expertise.
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Hidden Costs DIYers Miss (and Flooring Installation Contractors Avoid)
There’s more to flooring installation costs than just materials and basic labor. When homeowners calculate potential DIY savings, they often miss several hidden expenses that professional flooring installation contractors automatically factor into their work.
Material waste is perhaps the most common hidden cost. While professionals typically order with a careful 5-10% waste factor, inexperienced DIYers often make cutting errors that can increase waste to 20-30% or more. I’ve seen homeowners underestimate their material needs, leading to frustrating delays and color-matching headaches when they try to purchase additional flooring from different production runs.
The specialized tools required for proper installation represent another significant expense. That professional-grade flooring nailer? It’ll cost you $200-$350 just to rent. Quality tile saws run $75-$150 per day. Add in all the trowels, spacers, cutting tools, moisture meters, and adhesives, and you’re easily looking at hundreds of dollars in equipment that professionals already own and know how to use expertly.
Subfloor issues can quickly derail a DIY budget. Professional installers identify and address these problems early, but DIYers often find them mid-project. Those leveling compounds ($30-$200 per bag), replacement plywood ($25-$75 per sheet), moisture barriers ($0.50-$1.50 per square foot), and potential structural repairs can add thousands to your project cost.
Many homeowners don’t realize that DIY installation often voids manufacturer warranties. Most quality flooring comes with warranties that specifically require professional installation. Without proper documentation of installation methods, you might find yourself without protection when problems arise.
The most expensive hidden cost? Rework expenses. When DIY projects go wrong (and many do), fixing them costs significantly more than doing it right the first time. You’ll need to remove the improperly installed flooring, purchase replacement materials, and likely hire professionals to correct the issues – all while enduring extended disruption to your home.
DIYers rarely factor in the value of their time. There’s the learning curve for new skills, multiple trips to suppliers, and the extended timeline most DIY projects require. When you calculate what your time is worth, professional installation often becomes the more economical choice.
Finally, there’s disposal of the old flooring – a messy, labor-intensive process that creates significant waste. Dumpster rental ($300-$600), disposal fees ($50-$200), transportation costs, and potential hazardous material handling can add hundreds more to your DIY budget.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we include all these considerations in our transparent estimates, providing a true picture of project costs. We’ve helped many homeowners who initially attempted DIY installation but ultimately found that professional installation offered better value, less stress, and superior results that will last for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flooring Installation Contractors
How far in advance should I book flooring installation contractors?
Planning ahead is one of the smartest moves you can make when it comes to new flooring. The truth is, good flooring installation contractors are often booked weeks—sometimes months—in advance.
During our busiest seasons (typically spring and fall), our calendar at Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. fills up quickly, often 4-8 weeks ahead. Summer isn’t much different, especially for commercial projects when businesses can more easily close for renovations without disrupting their normal operations.
Your timeline should also account for materials. If you’ve fallen in love with a specialty hardwood or custom-ordered tile, expect to wait 2-6 weeks for it to arrive before installation can even begin. Standard materials might be readily available, but it’s always wise to confirm availability early in your planning process.
The scope of your project matters too. A single bedroom refresh might only need 2-4 weeks of advance booking, while whole-home installations generally require 4-8 weeks of lead time. Commercial projects are typically our most complex undertakings, often needing 6-12 weeks of advance scheduling.
My best advice? Contact us as soon as you’re even thinking about new flooring. We can provide an estimate and discuss timeline options without any pressure to commit immediately. And if you’re in a bind, don’t hesitate to ask—we sometimes have cancellations or can adjust our schedule for urgent situations.
Do contractors handle old-floor disposal and furniture moving?
“What about all my furniture?” is usually one of the first questions homeowners ask us. The good news is that professional flooring installation contractors typically handle both furniture moving and old flooring removal as part of their service.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we include moving standard household furniture in our comprehensive service. That said, there are a few exceptions worth noting. Very heavy items like pianos, massive armoires, or pool tables may incur an additional charge due to the specialized handling they require. We also recommend that you personally relocate small valuables, fragile items, and electronics—these items are often best in your careful hands.
As for your old flooring, we take care of everything. Our teams will carefully remove existing materials, properly dispose of them according to local regulations, and even recycle components when possible. This includes special handling for potentially hazardous materials like older vinyl tiles that might contain asbestos.
When you receive a quote from any flooring contractor, always clarify exactly what’s included. Some companies charge extra for furniture moving or disposal services, while others (like us) build these conveniences into our standard pricing. We believe in making the process as hassle-free as possible, handling all aspects from start to finish so you don’t have to worry about renting dumpsters or recruiting friends to help move heavy furniture.
Can I stay in my home during installation?
Yes, you can absolutely stay in your home while we install your new floors—but I want to give you an honest picture of what to expect.
First, the rooms being worked on will be completely off-limits during installation. Our flooring installation contractors need full access to the space, which means all furniture removed and no foot traffic. For whole-home projects, this can present obvious challenges, and some families opt for alternative arrangements during the most intensive phases.
The installation process isn’t exactly quiet. There will be hammering, cutting, and the constant movement of our crew. Work typically happens between 8am and 5pm, so if you work from home or have young children who nap during the day, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Despite our best containment efforts, some dust and odors are inevitable—especially with certain adhesives or finishes.
Timing is another consideration. While some installations can be completed in a single day, hardwood projects often require multiple days. Additionally, some materials need curing time before they can handle full foot traffic, and furniture might need to remain moved for 24-48 hours after we finish.
Those with respiratory sensitivities might want to consider temporary relocation during installation. Similarly, pets should be kept away from work areas—both for their safety and to prevent paw prints in fresh adhesive or finish!
Many of our clients successfully steer installations by creating temporary living arrangements in unaffected rooms. Others schedule their installation during a planned vacation or arrange a short hotel stay during the most disruptive phases.
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we pride ourselves on clear communication about these realities. We’ll work with you to minimize disruption while maintaining efficient progress, giving you all the information you need to decide whether staying home works for your situation.
Conclusion
Finding the right flooring installation contractors truly makes all the difference between floors that simply look good on day one and floors that continue to impress for decades. Throughout your home, few elements have as much impact on both aesthetics and function as your flooring—it’s literally the foundation of your living space.
As we’ve explored together, professional installation isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your investment is protected. From the initial consultation to that final walk-through, experienced flooring installation contractors bring specialized knowledge that simply can’t be matched by even the most enthusiastic DIYer.
Think about it: your floors will be walked on thousands of times, support your furniture, withstand spills, and define the character of your rooms. Wouldn’t you want that installation done right the first time?
At Romero Hardwood Floors Inc., we’ve seen the difference professional installation makes in homes across Beverly, Chelsea, Danvers, and throughout Massachusetts. Since 2006, we’ve been changing spaces with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Our clients often tell us they can instantly spot the difference between our professional installations and DIY attempts they see in other homes.
The peace of mind that comes with professional installation is perhaps the greatest benefit of all. When you work with qualified flooring installation contractors, you’re not just paying for the physical labor—you’re investing in expertise, warranty protection, and the confidence that your floors will perform beautifully for years to come.
Ready to take the next step toward beautiful, professionally installed floors? We’d love to help you explore your options with a no-pressure consultation and free estimate. Our team at Romero Hardwood Floors Inc. is passionate about helping homeowners and businesses make informed decisions about their flooring needs.
Your floors are too important to leave to chance. Trust the professionals who understand that your home deserves nothing less than excellence.
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