If installing new hardwood floors is on the list of things you'd like to do around the house before the holidays, you are probably looking for some great deals.
If so, here are some things to expect and some things to consider.
The ad barrage is constant –– in the newspapers, tabloid inserts and television spots boasting of real deals on wood flooring. Are they really deals? Or are they just a tease to get you in the store?
There actually are some pretty good deals available, and with the economy being what it is and jobs being scarce, contractors are willing to do work at lower prices. That's good news for consumers. But as always, you get what you pay for.
With an ad for wood flooring, check to see if the price includes installation. If so, does it include all the materials, such as glue, staples, nails? What about the finishing trim?
When you actually go to purchase the flooring, the price might vary greatly with different installation scenarios. Will the wood be floated? Will it be glued to cement? Is a sub-floor needed? Moisture protection might be needed in some instances. If you live in a condominium, soundproof sub-flooring usually is required.
The labor is usually the most expensive part of the deal. Other price increases might include removing carpet or moving furniture.
Rick Menger, president of Vintage Floors and Interiors in Hollywood, Fla., offers this advice for dealing with companies offering competitive pricing:
-- Expect limited selection.
-- Expect work that is average to good, at best.
-- Don't expect attention to every detail. You will find imperfections.
-- Expect the price to go up dramatically if the job presents any unforeseen challenge.
-- Plan to take on some of the prep work and cleanup. Don't expect "white glove" service.
-- Anticipate that your floor will have a limited life and will need to be refinished within three or five years.
There will be some exceptions to the above, but don't count on it. If you can live with these things, then you know you are making the right choice. If you can't, then don't go down that path. Always remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
-- Expect work that is average to good, at best.
-- Don't expect attention to every detail. You will find imperfections.
-- Expect the price to go up dramatically if the job presents any unforeseen challenge.
-- Plan to take on some of the prep work and cleanup. Don't expect "white glove" service.
-- Anticipate that your floor will have a limited life and will need to be refinished within three or five years.
There will be some exceptions to the above, but don't count on it. If you can live with these things, then you know you are making the right choice. If you can't, then don't go down that path. Always remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
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