Questions to Ask Your Hardwood Flooring Supplier
Hardwood flooring is a huge investment, but it’s an investment that can last you a lifetime. For this reason, it is important to work with a reputable supplier who not only provides the best hardwood materials around, but who will also be available should any problems ever occur with your flooring. Before you buy materials from just any hardwood supplier, ask potential suppliers these three questions:
What is the Warranty?
Hardwood floors should last forever, but low-quality boards tend to warp and damage easily. A company may tell you that its boards are of the highest quality, but when it comes time to back that statement, you never hear from the company again. Make sure that the supplier you work with can put its money where its mouth is and guarantee you a product that lasts for 25, 30 or even 40 years with a foolproof warranty.
How Durable is the Finish?
Though the wood itself should be durable, the supplier should add a finish to it to make it even more so. When purchasing prefinished hardwood flooring, make sure that the manufacturer has coated the boards with a finish that will hold up even after years of walking over it, and not one that can be taken off easily with a bit of sandpaper (as many boards from overseas are). You can test the finish by either rubbing a strip of sandpaper over a small patch of board or by pressing a coin into it. A quality finish will dent but it won’t tear away.
Who Can You Call?
Finally, you should be able to call the supplier whenever there are problems with your flooring. Again, hardwood floors should last forever, and the finish should be durable, so if you notice excessive scratches, peeling or dents, the manufacturer should replace it for free. Before you make your purchase, get the contact number of the person or department you should call when there are any issues you need to have resolved.
Hardwood flooring is a great option for any home. However, because it’s such a big investment, you don’t want to just jump in. Ask your supplier the above three questions to make sure that your investment is a sound one.