Flooring FAQ

 
Starting a project can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many decisions to make! Whose advice should you trust? GS Flooring is here to help you on your renovation journey, and it starts with answering FAQs. No question is too basic. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, feel free to get in touch, and we will put your mind at ease.
 

How do I start a home flooring renovation?
The first question to answer is how much do you want to get done? Is it a total overhaul or just sprucing up the living area? The extent of what you want to do should include your budget and the time frame you are working with. Then it’s time to call in the professionals to discuss your plans. Involving a professional instead of making it a DIY project will pay off in the long run.

Where should I start with a home renovation?
The walls and floors of your home are interconnected, and anything that happens to one is going to affect the entire house. This means that there is a certain sequence that needs to be followed to ensure everything keeps running smoothly. Flooring is usually the best place to start, and then you can work your way up.

How long does a flooring project take?
The amount of time a flooring project takes usually depends on what type of flooring is being removed and replaced with. One thing we can guarantee is that if you choose GS Flooring in St. George, UT, you’ll be working with the best. We work around your schedule and tailor our timing to your lifestyle. As thorough professionals, we ensure the process is quick and efficient.
 

Pets & flooring in St. George

 
Is there a pet-resistant hardwood floor?
Most hardwood floors can sustain considerable damage, especially some of the tougher woods like mesquite, hickory, mahogany, and Brazilian cherry. However, repeated scrapings by an excited pet are going to damage even the toughest floor. Getting a protective wax coating on the floor is one option. There are other sealants available as well

What kind of damage does pet urine cause to floors?
Most hardwood floors are hardy and can take a beating, but they aren’t moisture-proof. Repeated spills or pet urine in the same spot can seep into the wood fiber and cause a permanent, unsightly stain.

Woods like Brazilian walnut and bamboo have a high Janka Hardness Rating, and a sealant will further help to protect against seepage. Immediate cleanup can also be a deterrent against stains. Open windows, aim a fan at the offensive spot, and make sure the entire area is completely dry.

How do I get rid of pet urine stains?
Pets like to go in the same spot, and if for some reason you don’t get a chance to clean up right away, an unsightly stain will form. An internet search will give you several DIY ideas, but they can be risky and may even damage your floor further.

Your best bet is to get in touch with our experts at GS Flooring in St. George, UT, and we’ll have your floors looking brand new!


What kind of flooring is best for dogs?
Flooring that isn’t slippery to run on and is soft and comfortable for the dog’s paws are the best, especially if they are getting on in years and have achy joints.
 

Floor cleaning & maintenance in St. George

 
What is the best way to clean my floor?
Each flooring type comes with its own set of instructions for best cleaning practices. Depending on whether you have a hardwood floor, luxury vinyl planks, tile, linoleum, or carpeting, the recommended cleaning methods can be as diverse as vacuuming, sweeping, shampooing, using a wet or dry mop, and wiping with paper towels or microfiber wipes. Your best bet is to follow the instructions your floor installer gives you.

What are the different cleaning machines for floors?
There are several different types of machines for cleaning: vacuums, mops, shampoo and steam cleaners, buffers, and polishers. The high-end specialized equipment is more expensive and only meant for professionals. Unless your floor is really stained and soiled, vacuuming and mopping should take care of most problems.
 

Vinyl in St. George

 
What is vinyl flooring?
There are several types of vinyl flooring: sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), or luxury vinyl planks (LVP). Vinyl is durable and comes in a variety of shades and designs to suit any color scheme.

How long do vinyl floorings last?
With proper maintenance vinyl floors can last for up to 20–30 years.

What goes underneath a vinyl flooring?
Usually, an underlayment is installed underneath vinyl flooring. This is a seal against moisture and a way to sound-proof the floor. Some types of vinyl come with a pre-installed fiberglass, cork, or foam backing that can be installed right away without an underlayment.

Why should I choose LVP?
Luxury vinyl planks, or LVP, look like hardwood flooring but have added benefits. This flooring is waterproof, easy to install, and budget-friendly.
 

Laminate flooring in St. George

 
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate is an affordable flooring option composed of multiple layers of sheeting and designed to look like stone, wood, or tile. It’s a great choice for when you want your floor to look more natural while on a tight budget.

Is laminate waterproof?
Some laminates are waterproof, but most are not. Water damage can be pretty substantial. LVP is a better choice for waterproof flooring.
 

Hardwood flooring in St. George

 
What is hardwood flooring?
Hardwood flooring is flooring made from real wood and cut into shapes. Each plank comes from a single wood timber. Usually, these planks are treated with a stain and wear layer for protection at the factory, but these treatments can be provided onsite as well.

Do hardwood floors need to be acclimated?
Yes. The planks are usually acclimated in the room they are to be installed. No less than 72 hours should be scheduled to let the wood planks expand or contract in the environment of the room.

Can I use a steam cleaner on my hardwood floors?
No. Steam and heat will warp the wood. There is a strong likelihood that steam cleaning will also void the warranty. Hardwood floors only need to be swept with a dry brush or microfiber wipes.

What are the different types of hardwood flooring?
Hardwood floors offer a wide range of colors and grain patterns to choose from. The most popular woods include bamboo, teak, beech, birch, ash, hickory, maple, white oak, cherry red oak, and walnut. Some of these need to be imported from outside of the U.S., which will drive up the cost.
 

Carpet flooring in St. George

 
Why does my carpet shed?
These loose balls and fibers are leftover in the carpet during the manufacturing process. They are too big to be breathed in or to cause any kind of respiratory problems. Regular vacuuming will get rid of them over time without affecting the look and feel of your new carpet.

How should I clean my carpet?
Regular vacuuming takes care of most dirt and crumbs. Once a month a thorough carpet shampooing will have it looking as good as new.

How much does each flooring cost?
The cost of the flooring will depend on the size of the room, the kind of flooring you choose, and labor costs. Get in touch with us at GS Flooring in St. George, UT, and we can guarantee you the best deal.