What to Look for When Getting a Flooring Estimate: A Comprehensive Guide by Elite Floor Care

When it comes to flooring installation, refinishing, or repair, choosing the right company is crucial. Unfortunately, not all flooring companies are created equal, and making the wrong choice can result in poor workmanship, cheap products, and unexpected costs. At Elite Floor Care, we believe in providing top-tier service and transparency. This guide will help you understand what to look for when getting an estimate for your flooring project and why choosing the right company matters.

1. Product Quality Matters—Don't Settle for Less

One of the most important aspects of any flooring project is the quality of products being used. Not all finishes and materials are created equal. At Elite Floor Care, we use premium water-based products that:

Don't yellow or change over time—Maintaining your floor’s natural beauty for years.
Produce no smell or fumes—Making the process safe and convenient, especially for homes with children and pets.
Are non-toxic—Providing peace of mind when it comes to indoor air quality.

Additionally, we offer UV curing technology—a cutting-edge approach that allows your floors to be instantly cured and ready for use, boasting up to 7 times the durability of conventional finishes. Few companies offer this technology, giving Elite Floor Care a significant edge in both quality and efficiency.

We also showcase our work on our YouTube Channel where you can see real client projects, exceptional results, and our process from start to finish. Check it out by clicking the link here: Elite Floor Care YouTube Channel.

2. Read the Estimate Line by Line

Before you commit to a flooring contractor, carefully review the estimate. Make sure all aspects of the job are clearly outlined and that you understand exactly what you are paying for. If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t exist.

Key Items to Review:

How many coats of finish are being applied? More coats generally mean a longer-lasting finish.
What grade of finish is being used? High-quality finishes, like the ones we use, offer superior durability and clarity.
Is there a written warranty? Elite Floor Care offers a 3-year warranty—does your other contractor offer the same protection?
Is everything in writing? A clear and detailed report of what is included must be provided. If something is not written down, it doesn’t exist. Ambiguity can lead to hidden fees and unclear expectations.
What preparation work is included? Such as priming, masking, taping, or subfloor preparation for leveling.
Is clean-up included or will it be left to you? Make sure this is detailed.
What is the project timeline? Understanding when the project will start, how long it will take, and if the crew will work consecutive days is essential.
Breakdown of Costs: Every estimate should clearly show the costs of labor, materials, finishes, preparation work, and clean-up. Avoid lump-sum quotes that lack detail.
Payment Structure: Ensure the payment structure is clearly laid out. Are deposits required? When are payments due? What methods of payment are accepted? If this isn't outlined in the estimate, it’s a red flag.

3. Ensure They Are Reputable, Licensed, and Properly Insured

It's important to verify that the company you hire is licensed, insured, and reputable. Doing so protects you from liability if anything goes wrong and ensures you are working with professionals who take their craft seriously.

Check for 5-star reviews. At Elite Floor Care, we are proud to have over 250 five-star reviews from satisfied clients.
Ask for proof of insurance and licensing. Any reputable contractor should be able to provide this information quickly and without hesitation.
Make sure they are properly insured. Ask what types of insurance they carry (general liability, workers’ compensation, etc.) to ensure you are fully protected.

4. Red Flags to Watch Out For

Not every company has your best interests in mind. Be wary of the following:

Vague or unclear estimates. If it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist.
Lack of warranty. If they can’t guarantee their work, what does that say about their confidence in their own service?
Low-quality products. Cheap finishes may save you money upfront but will cost you far more in the long run.
No reviews or bad reviews. Companies without a solid reputation should be approached with caution.
No breakdown of services or unclear descriptions. This is a major red flag and can lead to unexpected costs down the line.
Ambiguous Payment Terms. Be cautious if the payment terms are not clearly outlined or seem overly complicated.

5. Why Elite Floor Care Is the Best Choice

At Elite Floor Care, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled service with premium products and industry-leading technology. Here’s what sets us apart:

Premium Water-Based Finishes: No yellowing, no fumes, non-toxic, and long-lasting.
UV Curing Technology: Instant curing that offers unmatched durability—up to 7 times stronger than conventional finishes.
Transparent Estimates: Everything is outlined in writing, including the number of coats, grade of finish, and warranty details.
3-Year Warranty: A true testament to the quality and confidence we have in our work.
Licensed, Insured, and Highly Reviewed: With over 250 five-star reviews, we’ve earned our reputation as Knoxville’s most trusted flooring professionals.

6. What Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Flooring Contractor

To protect yourself from unexpected costs or poor workmanship, be sure to ask:

What type of finish will be used? Is it water-based or oil-based? Will it yellow over time?
How many coats of finish will be applied?
Is the contractor licensed and insured?
What is included in the warranty?
Can you provide references or reviews from past clients?
How long will the project take?
Do they offer UV curing technology?
Can they identify the species of wood and the grade?
Is everything clearly written in the estimate? If not, why?
Are prep work, clean-up, and all steps of the process clearly detailed?

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right flooring contractor can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be. At Elite Floor Care, we’re here to provide transparency, quality, and exceptional customer service every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and see the difference for yourself.

Looking for more tips and guidance? Check out our other informative blog posts or give us a call at 865-224-8115. We’re here to help you make an informed decision for your home’s flooring needs.