Many flooring stores in Arizona feature products that can be installed by the consumer. These floors are convenient and valued because of their ability to save both time and money. However, some flooring types require additional help in the form of a professional contractor. A quality installer will make the entire process much simpler, including estimating the amount of product needed, preparation, removal of existing floors, and workspace clean-up after the installation.
There are many Arizona flooring contractors available for work by both commercial and residential customers. If you need to find a flooring contractor in Arizona use this map to get their address, phone number, and driving directions. Call to find out what their operating hours are and whether or not they deal with hardwood, vinyl, laminate, carpet, tile, concrete, or epoxy. These contractors may provide a variety of flooring services such as installation, refinishing, sanding, cleaning, and repairing.
In Arizona, a contractor must be licensed to bid on any residential or commercial jobs over $75. Licenses are valid for two years and there are a series of exams that an installer has to pass in order to apply. Arizona residents can find out if a particular contractor is licensed with the state through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors or by calling (602)-542-1525.
The Arizona Attorney General has issued several warnings about consumer fraud and protection. Flooring installation complaints are usually based on poor work, unexpected costs, lack of follow up availability, and unreliability. According to the Attorney General's office, residents who feels they have been the victim of a fraud should try to contact the person or company, inform them about the complaint, and request a remedy that they think is appropriate.
If the contractor is unresponsive to the suggested remedy, or is unwilling to provide it, consumers can then file an official complaint with the applicable state or federal agency, and/or the Arizona State Attorney General's Office as well. Depending on how the installer handles the situation, it might still be a good idea to file an official complaint so that it is on record for future customers.
Besides verifying that a contractor is licensed in Arizona, residents are advised to obtain the contact information for any installer they are considering, such as an address or phone number where they can be reached. Also, the Attorney General's office recommends asking for references and speaking with previous clients if possible. Never hire a contractor that is going door to door or only accepts cash payments. Often times, this is a scam and a surprisingly low price could be another warning sign.
To reduce the risk of additional costs, homeowners should acquire at least three separate bids. When a product or service is omitted from a bid, the installer could be planning to add extra items to the contract later. For this reason, do not sign a contract with any blank spaces and make sure that everything is clearly listed.
Before, during, and after a flooring installation, the consumer is advised to inspect the work area. Questions or concerns can be discussed with the contractor and resolved as soon as possible. Consumers are wise to learn about a floor's variations, whether it's likely to expand or contract, and other characteristics that might be associated with a certain product.
Although Arizona has a dry climate, hardwood flooring could still expand or contract as the humidity and temperature levels change. Proper installation and allowing enough space between the planks and the wall should reduce the movement substantially. Natural fading is an issue in any state for various woods, and Arizona is well known for its sunshine.