Frequently Asked Flooring Questions

Take a look below at some of our frequently asked questions. Flooring Zone in Atlanta, GA, prides itself on a dedicated customer service experience. We aim to be partners in helping make your home or business more livable and beautiful with top-quality flooring. Don’t see your question answered? Feel free to call us today at (855) 344-9663.

What causes my hardwood floors to make noise?

Wood naturally expands and contracts as humidity and temperature levels change. Small creaking and squeaking noises are common and not cause for concern.

Will there be changes to my hardwood floor color after installation?

Yes, and depending on the species of wood selected, certain coloration changes are common. Your wood may become more amber or yellow, lighter, or darker, depending on the species. Natural sunlight hitting your floor will impact coloring as well.

Can you refinish engineered hardwood flooring?

Yes, engineered hardwood floors function like natural wood floors and can be refinished as well. With a thicker veneer, you should be able to refinish your engineered floor one to three times.

What are the differences between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?

Solid hardwood is cut from one piece of wood. Engineered hardwood is made from different materials including a hardwood layer, a thick, high-density material inside, and a hardwood backing. Engineered floors are more durable and stable and are excellent choices for humid environments.

What is the process of acclimating hardwood flooring?

The moisture content of natural hardwood needs to adjust to current room conditions. By placing the packaged boards in opened cartons raised off the floor, the wood gets five to seven days of acclimation. This process is not required for engineered wood.

How do you choose the right carpet?

It all depends on the room. High-traffic areas should have a dense loop pile carpet. Rooms with outdoor or pet access should have a stain-resistant carpet. A luxurious, soft carpet is perfect for bedrooms and areas with less foot traffic. Always think about the room’s usage to determine the correct carpet.

Why are there patches of changing color in my carpet?

The carpet yarn can vary in terms of light-reflecting qualities. When carpets are walked on, the pile is pushed in opposite directions. Vacuum or sweep in one direction to remove the perceived color discrepancy.

Is carpet padding really necessary?

Absolutely! Carpet padding helps to keep the underside of your carpet from wearing out against the subfloor. You can lessen stress on the carpet from foot traffic and overall use when you have a carpet pad. Carpet padding also helps with insulation and temperature control.

Why does my new carpet smell like chemicals?

The synthetic latex binder used to hold carpet fibers and backing in one piece can bring about the new carpet smell. This fades within 72 hours and is not harmful. Open windows and use fans to help the smell disperse.

Should laminate flooring be installed in damp areas?

In general, it is not a good idea to install laminate flooring in damp areas. Laminate boards can swell and warp in areas with excessive moisture. However, laminate flooring can be installed in dry basements that have been finished and full bathrooms where there is no standing water.

Are laminate underlayments required?

They are not required but strongly recommended. Underlayments can smooth out an uneven subfloor. They can also help with cushioning and reduce noise and wear.

What is the importance of board thickness for laminate flooring?

The thicker the board, the less likely there are to be bends when the subfloor is not even. Board thickness ranges from 7 millimeters to 12 millimeters thick.

What is vinyl flooring?

Vinyl is a form of plastic, and vinyl flooring is constructed from several different materials layered upon one another. Most vinyl flooring consists of four layers. A felt, fiberglass or vinyl backing layer for padding; a core layer; a decorative, patterned layer; and a top, wear layer that protects from scratches and scuffs.

Where can vinyl be installed?

Vinyl flooring can be installed in any room of your home, whether at grade, above grade, or below grade. Vinyl can be installed on top of any subfloor layer as well, making it extremely versatile. Subfloors must be level because a vinyl floor will show subfloor inconsistencies.

Are linoleum and vinyl the same thing?

No, they are quite different. While they are both durable and resilient flooring options, they are made of different materials.

Can you only get vinyl in large sheets?

No, vinyl comes in planks, sheets, or tiles, making it very easy to make creative choices in the design and subsequent installation process!

Contact the flooring experts at Flooring Zone in Atlanta today at (855) 344-9663.