5 Mistakes to Avoid Before Hiring a Flooring Contractor

It is all too common these days to turn on the news and hear about someone going door-to-door offering services from driveway repair to flooring replacement. Sadly, there are people who hire these individuals because they offer their services at what seems to be incredibly good deals. The unfortunate truth is that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. You can save time, money and frustration in the long run by learning to avoid these 5 mistakes before hiring a flooring contractor.

First of all, never hire a contractor without checking references or getting referrals from people you know and trust. If the individual can’t or won’t supply references, then send them packing because it could be a scam.

The second mistake people make is not getting multiple estimates. The only way to ensure you’re getting the best possible price is to compare at least three contractors. Have them come into your home to measure and discuss product options then get written estimates from each before you make a hiring decision.

Another common error is not doing your own product research. This is a great way to make sure the contractor’s pricing is fair and to ensure the quality of the flooring materials they use. You may also find you’ll save money by purchasing the flooring yourself instead of through the contractor.

Before hiring any contractor, always check for licenses, certifications, bonding and insurance. Reputable companies will be properly licensed by the state, and their installers and technicians will be professionally certified. They will carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance to cover any mishaps that may occur on the job, and hiring a bonded contractor protects you in the event that the terms of a the contract aren’t met.

Finally, and this is of the utmost importance, get it in writing. A written contract is assurance that the contractor will provide the products, services and price you have discussed. Your contract should include estimated costs, estimated time to complete the project with start and finish dates included, detailed lists of materials with model numbers and pricing, payment schedules, permits and inspection paper work and waste disposal information.

All it takes to avoid these 5 mistakes before hiring a flooring contractor is a little common sense and patience. Taking the time to do a little research will pay off in the long run. For more information on finding a reliable flooring contractor in Waco, visit this website.

Window shutter maker coming to Gainesville, will employ 200 workers

The president of a national window shutters holding company is consolidating operations and coming to Gainesville as part of a move that could bring 200 jobs to the area… read more

3 Tips for Choosing new Flooring Materials

Wouldn’t it be great if choosing a new floor was as simple as walking into the store and saying, “That’s the one.”? Unfortunately, it just isn’t that easy. These tips will help you find the best possible flooring for your home.

1. Budget

First, decide how much you can afford to spend. Next, measure the room and calculate how many square feet of material you’ll need. Then, focus on only the products that fit your budget.

2. Location

Different rooms require different considerations.

• Bathroom, basements and utility room floors should resist moisture and humidity.
• Living room and bedroom floors should be comfortable for sitting and walking and durable to withstand constant use.
• High traffic entryways and mud rooms need flooring that’s sturdy and easy to clean.
• Kitchen floors should stand up to high traffic and be comfortable for long periods of standing.

Try to stick with comfortable, durable flooring that’s easy to clean and maintain.

3. Style

A combination retro red and black wood laminate may appeal to your current sense of style, but what about later? Choose a style you and your family can live with for years to come.

Knowing your budget, your needs and your personal style first will ensure you get the perfect floor for your home. To learn more about finding a wood flooring store in Waco, visit this website.

Decorative Wall Tiles

This is a beautiful idea for a tub surround in a child’s bathroom! Can you imagine how much fun bath time would be for the little ones as they pretend to be explorers sailing the bath tub around the world? 

Three Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Wooden and Vinyl Shutters

It is quite possible you have never considered very deeply the serious nature of the shutter question. The truth is, though, that the decision between wooden and vinyl shutters can be a difficult one. In order to make the best decision possible, it is important to consider three key factors.

   1.Beauty

While wood is associated with home construction, including shutters, historically, the development of vinyl options represents modernity that enables a variety of methods and higher energy efficiency ratings. That said, well-made wooden shutters rank high for most people as being more beautiful and decorative.

   2.Function

Depending on the specific duties of the shutters, there is a high probability that either wood or vinyl options will satisfy your needs. Whenever economy is a deciding factor, many people choose vinyl simply because it is a less expensive choice. Vinyl is an ideal option, for instance, wherever moisture will be an issue, such as basements, utility sheds or bathrooms.

   3.Maintenance

Either wood or vinyl may be fairly easy to maintain. The key to keeping either type of shutter look great and working well is periodic cleanings. Wherever dust settles, your design factor is in serious jeopardy. Furthermore, cleaner fixtures tend to operate better for longer.

For many the final decision between wood or vinyl shutters will come down to price. Remember, though, that your home should be treated like your palace as it represents both your taste and the way you conduct yourself. To connect with a shutter company in Holly Springs, please visit this website.

Creative Matters to Debut Two New Collections at New York International Carpet Show

Creative Matters will unveil its new Arctic and Perennial collections at the New York International Carpet Show… read more

How Sheer Window Shades Can Improve the Look of Your Office

People put a lot of thought into their office spaces. Alongside the home, they represent the places where most of a professional’s time is spent, and like homes, they tend to reflect the person who occupies the space, so many view office decor as a way to send a message. What can be easy to overlook, though, is the way that window coverings affect the overall attitude of a space.

Control and Comfort

That’s where sheer shades come in. Their unique construction is designed to give you control over your environment while bringing in natural light and accentuating your other design choices. They do this in a few ways.

• By being sheer and translucent instead of being transparent, shades allow natural light to permeate the space, decreasing the need for harsh overhead lights and providing greater comfort during daytime working hours.
• Control over your view means never having to be distracted by projects or traffic when you need to focus.
• Provides a neutral and balancing counterpoint to allow accent decor space to be the star of the room.

In addition, sheer shades also help protect you from harmful UV rays during working hours, giving you protection without taking away the light. With all of these advantages, it is hard to see why there are other options to consider when it comes to your office window coverings. To learn more about sheer window shades in Wilmington, click here.