Finding a reputable commercial flooring contractor may seem like a daunting task, however, it’s not difficult if you know what to look for. It’s important to do your due diligence which extends beyond a simple Google search.
There are many things to consider to ensure your final installation choice is a sound one. Reputable commercial flooring contractors have a proven track record in delivering a variety of solutions for distinct commercial spaces. Professionals with this expertise understand the challenges and demands of different types of projects spanning from renovations to new builds. They will be able to handle all aspects from design right through to installation.
A reputable commercial flooring contractor will be the one who will offer options, point out pitfalls and educate you so that your project is a success. Below we have outlined 8 key things to look for that will ensure your needs are met and that the project is a success – including the firm’s longevity, past history, product knowledge and overall service offering.
1. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Shows Project Work and Shares References
Finding a contractor is more than a Google search that offers options nearest you. A firm with a good reputation and references to share is a good first start.
Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring IMAX installation
You will want to ensure that they are adept at surveying the location in question and how that relates to the type of flooring to be installed. They will examine any possible flooring concerns through an initial onsite meeting.
2. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Stays on Time and on Budget
Your contractor will help in evaluating product performance/cost ratios to ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project.
Make sure your contractor will ensure a budget meets all the targets of a project.
Proposals should provide line item budgets that capture the detail of site preparation and installation factors, post installation maintenance and the many details that make a job unique. This approach ensures the tracking of the status of the project as it moves through the implementation cycle which will be important for staying on time and within budget parameters.
3. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Manages Resources On Site
Ensure your reputable commercial flooring contractor uses qualified installers and will designate a project manager that will be on site to monitor the project as it unfolds. A seasoned team is required to work with other on-site trades to ensure efficient co-ordination of activities. There are complexities associated with scheduling when combined with working with a variety of different trades that can affect day to day outcomes.
Qualified installers are critical to project success.
When there are no gaps in communication it will help to alleviate problems before they occur and allow your contractor to suggest alternatives and recommendations. This ensures that your requirements are efficiently and effectively executed.
4. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Has Good Product Knowledge
It’s important for commercial flooring contractors to have positive and long-standing relationships with the manufacturer’s brands they carry. True flooring specialists will have in-depth knowledge of the products that they install. They will make recommendations for your specific project and advise what type of products will offer the best performance. For example we deal with Mohawk Group, Mannington Commercial , Milliken and Tarkett, amongst other manufacturers.
Understanding the challenges associated with life expectancy, appearance retention and ongoing maintenance are issues that require consideration. Installing the wrong product can create many issues. Prior to installation, a good flooring contractor will help with providing product characteristic data which will help to mitigate future problems – from the sub floor to surface.
5. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Minimizes Disruption and Downtime
Reputable commercial flooring contractors will look for ways to minimize or eliminate downtime and disruption. Darwin Fisher offers technology called Levitate – an Office Lifting System that allows carpet to be replaced with no downtime. Levitate is a series of custom designed mechanical tools which are placed underneath any type of office furniture to lift it smoothly and safely. Once the furniture and workstations are raised the carpet is quickly and easily installed without disruption to employee workstations.
6. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Has A Warehouse to Help Lower Costs
Having a warehouse is also an important value add. The flexibility and functionality of a warehouse helps improve customer service, lower costs and offers the availability to have the right products delivered, at the right place and time. It can also be used to store products that need longer lead times when being shipped from overseas. It is also helpful if there are several iterations of a larger project which require the phasing in of a variety of flooring materials, and longer-term storage is needed.
Having a warehouse helps to reduce costs/logistical issues related to scheduling, while managing inventory.
7. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Understands Manufacturer Warranty
Inquire about after sales and installation service. Reputable contractors with good relationships with manufacturers will be registered and understand warranty information as an authorized dealer.
8. A Reputable Commercial Flooring Contractor – Stands Behind Completed Work
Your contractor should be with you every step and long after the project is complete. If there are any issues after installation, a good contactor will stand behind their work and remedy the problem.
Go further than a simple Google search. Ensure your chosen contractor has experience, longevity, is financially stable and can offer an array of past projects and references. This will ensure your satisfaction and project success.
For a free consultation on your next flooring installation please contact info@darwinfisher.com.