A flooring quote is one price per square foot or that’s what it seems like. Unfortunately, it doesn’t show you everything that has to happen before you start enjoying your floors and what’s needed to install them the right way.
Kenny Teich, co-owner of Floors To Go of Lighthouse Point, has seen prices shock South Florida homeowners in the past. That’s why we’re going to explain costs that catch them off guard today.
The Big One: Floor Prep
Floor prep is the big one. Until the existing flooring comes out, there isn’t a way to guess what’s underneath it. How uneven the surface is, how wavy it is, and the shape of the foundation are all a mystery. In South Florida, unevenness has multiple causes. The most common tend to be old adhesive left behind from a previous installation, moisture damage, or a concrete slab that’s settled unevenly over the years.
A new floor needs a flat surface. Just know that a flat surface is not the same as a level surface. Even when it’s completely level, a floor can still have dips, high spots, or waves that telegraph straight through the new installation if they aren’t addressed ahead of time. A floor that’s flat, not just level, is easy to overlook. Many homeowners don’t expect the extra expense.
The Smaller Things That Add Up
Floor prep gets a lot of attention. However, it’s not the only cost homeowners might miss. Baseboard removal and reinstallation is another one. Those boards must come off before the new floor goes in and go back up later. Underlayment and glue needed for these installations are another line item that isn’t always factored into a per-square-foot estimate. The right underlayment and adhesive will depend on the product. Engineered hardwood, tile, and vinyl all need different materials underneath, and the wrong pairing can lead to problems down the line.
Stairs are in another category. Between the material and labor, stairs cost more than the rest of the project on a per-square-foot basis when it comes to supply and installation.
Why This Gets Communicated Upfront
These costs are not hidden on purpose. We communicate as much as we can with our customers and our clients, but floor prep usually surprises people the most because the full scope isn’t discovered until the old flooring comes up. At Floors To Go of Lighthouse Point, we let you know that an accurate estimate goes beyond a quick measurement. It involves seeing the space, the subfloor, and every detail of your project. We walk through every line of an estimate with you instead of handing over a number and moving on.
Getting ready for your next flooring project and want a realistic number before committing? Contact us or visit our showroom today.