Frequently Asked Questions

Solid hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood and can be sanded multiple times, while engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer over a plywood base, offering better moisture resistance. Engineered is often preferred in basements or areas with humidity fluctuations. At The Floor Network, we help you choose based on your room's conditions and long-term goals.

Most hardwood installations take 2 to 4 days depending on the room size and whether you're using prefinished or unfinished boards. Prefinished hardwood installs faster since there's no staining or sealing onsite. At The Floor Network, our experienced crews work efficiently while maintaining attention to detail throughout the process.

Yes, quality LVP is 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements where moisture is a concern. The core is designed to resist water damage without warping or swelling. At The Floor Network, we install waterproof vinyl options that combine durability with realistic wood or tile looks.

In some cases, tile can be installed over existing flooring if the surface is level, stable, and properly prepared. Concrete and cement backer board are ideal substrates, but old vinyl or wood may need removal first. Our installers at The Floor Network assess your subfloor to ensure a long-lasting tile installation.

Engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and tile all perform well in Grand Rapids' cold, variable climate. These materials resist moisture from snow melt and handle indoor humidity changes better than solid hardwood. At The Floor Network, we recommend options that hold up to Michigan's seasonal temperature swings.

Remove furniture, rugs, and fragile items from the rooms being worked on, and clear a path for installers to bring materials inside. If you have pets, plan to keep them in a separate area during installation. At The Floor Network, we'll walk you through any additional prep steps during your free estimate.

Many homeowners choose flooring based on looks alone without considering their lifestyle, moisture levels, or subfloor condition. Picking the wrong material for high-traffic or wet areas leads to premature wear or damage. At The Floor Network, we guide you toward flooring that matches both your style and your home's real-world demands.

Yes, prefinished hardwood is factory-sealed with multiple coats of durable finish that often outlasts site-applied finishes. It also eliminates dust and fumes from onsite sanding and finishing. At The Floor Network, we install prefinished oak, maple, and walnut floors that are ready to use immediately after installation.

Professional installers ensure proper subfloor prep, precise cuts, correct adhesive or fastener use, and long-term durability that DIY projects often lack. Mistakes can lead to gaps, buckling, or voided warranties. At The Floor Network, our owners personally handle installations, bringing over 30 years of expertise to every job.

You get consistent quality, direct accountability, and seamless coordination from product selection through installation. There's no miscommunication between separate sales and install teams. At The Floor Network, our family-owned business means you know exactly who will be showing up to your home and installing your floors.

LVP is 100% waterproof, easier to maintain through Michigan winters, and installs at a lower cost — making it ideal for kitchens, basements, and mudrooms. Hardwood adds warmth and long-term home value but requires more climate control. Both are available through our Grand Rapids showroom with professional installation included.

LVP typically offers lower upfront cost and zero moisture worries, which matters in Michigan's humid summers and cold winters. Hardwood commands higher resale appeal and can be refinished multiple times over decades. The best value depends on the room, your budget, and how long you plan to stay in the home.

Our Grand Rapids showroom carries both luxury vinyl plank and hardwood flooring so you can compare materials, finishes, and price points side by side before committing. Seeing and feeling the products in person makes it easier to choose the right fit for your specific rooms and lifestyle.