Flooring FAQs | Common Questions About Flooring

Question 1

Is luxury vinyl tile suitable for retail stores?

Accepted Answer

Yes—LVT offers durability, easy maintenance, and design flexibility to match branding, making it a top choice for many retail environments. We even use LVT in our own showroom.

Question 2

Are there eco-friendly or sustainable commercial flooring options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Options include low-VOC vinyl with recycled content, carpet tiles with recycled fiber backings, and polished concrete that reuses existing slabs. Bamboo or cork can work in light-traffic areas. We can highlight certifications (e.g., Green Label Plus for carpet) and calculate potential LEED credits based on your project.

Question 3

Can commercial flooring installation be scheduled outside business hours?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer flexible windows—early mornings, evenings, or weekends—to minimize downtime. We coordinate timelines, material delivery, and communication so your operations run smoothly.

Question 4

Can I mix different flooring types within one commercial facility? How do I handle transitions?

Accepted Answer

Yes—and it’s often desirable to delineate zones (e.g., tile in entries, carpet tile in offices). Proper thresholds or reducers handle height changes and safety. We plan foot-traffic flow, specify transition profiles, and align textures/colors for a cohesive look.

Question 5

How can I extend the lifespan of my commercial flooring?

Accepted Answer

Follow manufacturer maintenance, use entrance mats and furniture glides, clean spills promptly, and schedule periodic inspections. Professional services like resealing, polishing, or deep cleaning (quarterly or semi-annual) help maintain warranty and appearance.

Question 6

How do I choose flooring for specialized environments like healthcare, hospitality, or industrial spaces?

Accepted Answer

Healthcare favors hygienic, seamless surfaces (e.g., epoxy or LVT with welded seams) and antimicrobial options. Hospitality balances durability with design (e.g., LVT in lobbies, carpet tile in rooms). Industrial spaces need heavy-duty, chemical-resistant, load-bearing surfaces (e.g., polished concrete or epoxy). We assess operations, compliance, and design to recommend the right system.

Question 7

How do I choose between carpet tile and vinyl in an office?

Accepted Answer

Carpet tile improves acoustics and underfoot comfort but needs periodic deep cleaning. LVT is easier to clean and resists spills. Your choice depends on noise targets, comfort, and maintenance preferences.

Question 8

How often should commercial flooring undergo professional cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Frequency depends on traffic and material. High-traffic aisles and corridors often need monthly or quarterly deep cleaning (e.g., strip/reseal VCT, hot-water extraction for carpet tile). Moderate-traffic zones may be semi-annual. We tailor schedules to your usage.

Question 9

Which flooring lasts longest in commercial settings?

Accepted Answer

Polished concrete and epoxy/resinous coatings typically deliver the longest lifespan under heavy traffic, followed by high-grade LVT and well-maintained VCT.

Question 10

What acoustic considerations apply to commercial flooring?

Accepted Answer

To reduce impact noise, consider carpet tile with acoustic backing, rubber flooring, or sound-rated underlayment beneath LVT/laminate. We evaluate your layout and recommend assemblies that meet your acoustic goals.

Question 11

What warranties and guarantees apply to commercial flooring?

Accepted Answer

Most commercial products include manufacturer wear warranties (e.g., 10–20 years) and separate installation guarantees (e.g., 1–5 years). Using our supplied materials and installers helps keep warranties valid and streamlines any future claims.

Question 12

How important is subfloor preparation in commercial projects?

Accepted Answer

Crucial. Moisture and flatness issues cause failures like cracks or peeling. We perform moisture testing, level checks, and remediation (e.g., self-levelers, moisture barriers) and pair underlayments/primers with the specified flooring.

Question 13

What slip-resistance standards should I consider for commercial spaces?

Accepted Answer

Look for compliant slip-resistance ratings (e.g., ADA guidance and ASTM D2047). Wet areas benefit from textured LVT, slip-resistant tile, or rubber with the appropriate coefficient of friction. We’ll recommend safe, attractive options for your use case.

Question 14

Can I install tile flooring myself, or should I hire a professional?

Accepted Answer

DIY is possible, but professional installation ensures proper layout, alignment, waterproofing, and long-term durability—especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and large areas.

Question 15

How much does tile flooring cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary by material and design. Ceramic is typically more affordable; porcelain and natural stone trend higher. Visit our showroom to select samples and schedule an in-home estimate for accurate pricing.

Question 16

What are the best tiles for shower floors?

Accepted Answer

Choose slip-resistant options like small mosaics, textured porcelain, or matte-finish ceramic for better traction and drainage.

Question 17

What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?

Accepted Answer

Porcelain is denser, more durable, and more water-resistant than ceramic, making it ideal for high-traffic and wet areas.

Question 18

Where can I find high-quality porcelain tiles near me?

Accepted Answer

Visit local retailers and flooring stores. At All About Flooring (2111 N. Pleasantburg Dr., Greenville), you can see a wide selection and get expert guidance.

Question 19

Where can I find the best tile stores near me?

Accepted Answer

Local flooring retailers offer broad selections and personalized service. All About Flooring provides the expertise of national retailers with local, family-owned attention.

Question 20

How do I find reliable flooring installation services near me?

Accepted Answer

Look for licensed and insured pros with strong reviews and recent projects. Our installers undergo thorough vetting to ensure top-quality work.

Question 21

How long does it take to install new flooring?

Accepted Answer

Most projects take 1–3 days, but timing depends on material, room size, and subfloor prep.

Question 22

How much does new flooring cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies by material, installation, and room size. With 10,000+ options, the best path is to visit our showroom, pick samples, and schedule a measure for an accurate proposal.

Question 23

What are the best flooring options for high-traffic areas?

Accepted Answer

Choose durable, easy-to-maintain, scratch- and stain-resistant options—great for homes with kids and pets.

Question 24

What should I consider when choosing new flooring?

Accepted Answer

Balance durability, maintenance, budget, and look. Moisture-prone rooms need water-resistant surfaces. Our project managers can help narrow choices to 2–5 best-fit options for your style and lifestyle.

Question 25

Where can I find the best flooring stores near me?

Accepted Answer

Local flooring stores and dealers provide modern to classic options plus personalized service. All About Flooring combines large selection with local expertise.

Question 26

Why can’t I hire you to install materials I already own?

Accepted Answer

To protect quality and warranties, we install materials we supply. This ensures compatibility, proper methods, and a single source of accountability.

Question 27

Do you offer free samples?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide samples for in-home trials when you select materials in our Greenville showroom or via sample delivery.

Question 28

How soon after choosing materials can installation begin?

Accepted Answer

Typically within 3–4 weeks, depending on product availability and schedule. We coordinate delivery and installation seamlessly.

Question 29

What if I find a lower price for materials elsewhere?

Accepted Answer

For warranty and installation quality reasons, we install products we supply. Our pricing reflects bundled value—customer care, certified installation, and post-install support.

Question 30

Can carpet cleaning remove pet stains and odors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Certified cleaners use targeted treatments and odor neutralizers to remove urine, stains, and lingering smells.

Question 31

Can I walk on my carpet immediately after cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Wait at least 6 hours. If needed, wear clean socks or shoe covers to keep fibers clean while drying.

Question 32

Do you offer area rug cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Yes—professional rug cleaning (wool, Persian, oriental, synthetic) to remove deep soil and refresh appearance.

Question 33

Do you offer same-day carpet cleaning services?

Accepted Answer

Yes—call ahead to check same-day or next-day availability.

Question 34

How long does it take for carpets to dry after cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Typically 4–6 hours, depending on humidity, airflow, and carpet thickness. Fans and open windows speed it up.

Question 35

How much does professional carpet cleaning cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on room count, carpet type, and method. Professional-grade cleaning commonly ranges from about $75–$200 per room; non-professional services may be cheaper but less thorough.

Question 36

How often should I get my carpets and rugs cleaned?

Accepted Answer

Manufacturers recommend every 12–18 months; for high-traffic homes, pets, or kids, every 6–12 months.

Question 37

Is professional carpet cleaning safe for pets and kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use eco-friendly, non-toxic solutions. Ask about green options when booking.

Question 38

What is the best method for carpet cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Hot water extraction (steam cleaning) is most effective for deep cleaning and allergen removal and is widely recommended by manufacturers and the Carpet and Rug Institute.

Question 39

DIY vs. professional carpet cleaning—what’s the difference?

Accepted Answer

DIY can freshen surfaces, but pros reach deep into fibers to remove stains, bacteria, and allergens. Always ensure chemicals and machines are approved for your carpet or rug.

Question 40

Why should I use a rug pad?

Accepted Answer

Rug pads improve safety (no slipping), protect floors, add comfort, and reduce friction to extend rug life.

Question 41

How big should my rug be?

Accepted Answer

Living rooms: fit all furniture legs on or at least front legs. Dining: cover table and chairs when pulled out. Bedroom: extend ~2 feet beyond bed sides/foot. Hall/entry: cover most of the walkway.

Question 42

Where should I put rugs?

Accepted Answer

Common placements: under coffee tables, dining tables, beds, in halls, and entryways to add warmth, reduce noise, and define spaces.

Question 43

Which rooms look best with rugs?

Accepted Answer

Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, home offices, halls, and entryways all benefit from the comfort and style rugs provide.

Question 44

What size rug should I buy?

Accepted Answer

Popular sizes: 5×8 (small living/bedrooms), 8×10 (medium living/dining), 9×12 (large rooms/king beds), and runners for hallways.

Question 45

What is a custom rug?

Accepted Answer

A made-to-order rug tailored to your dimensions, colors, and design to fit unique spaces and preferences.

Question 46

What’s the difference between rug fibers?

Accepted Answer

Wool is durable and naturally stain-resistant; cotton is soft but less durable; silk is luxurious and delicate; synthetics (nylon, polyester, olefin) are durable and affordable; jute/sisal are natural but firmer—best for low-traffic areas.

Question 47

What is an area rug?

Accepted Answer

A large decorative rug that covers part of a floor to define spaces, add warmth, and enhance style; available in many sizes, patterns, and materials.

Question 48

What’s the best way to clean an area rug?

Accepted Answer

Vacuum regularly, spot clean spills promptly, deep-clean as appropriate for the fiber (or hire a pro), dry thoroughly, and rotate for even wear.

Question 49

What is vinyl flooring?

Accepted Answer

A durable, water-resistant PVC-based surface available as sheets, tiles, or planks that can mimic wood, stone, or ceramic.

Question 50

What is luxury vinyl flooring (LVF)?

Accepted Answer

A thicker, more realistic, and more durable class of vinyl, available as luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT).

Question 51

What is luxury vinyl plank (LVP)?

Accepted Answer

LVP resembles hardwood planks with a high-resolution image layer, protective wear layer, and resilient core for stability and comfort.

Question 52

How long do vinyl floors last?

Accepted Answer

Typically 5–20+ years depending on quality, traffic, and maintenance. LVF generally lasts longer than standard vinyl.

Question 53

LVP vs. LVT—what’s the difference?

Accepted Answer

LVP mimics wood in plank form; LVT mimics stone/ceramic in tile shapes and supports varied patterns.

Question 54

LVT vs. sheet vinyl—what’s the difference?

Accepted Answer

LVT uses individual tiles with higher realism and durability; sheet vinyl is a continuous sheet that’s budget-friendly and easy to install.

Question 55

What rooms can I put luxury vinyl in?

Accepted Answer

Nearly any room—kitchens, baths, living spaces, bedrooms, basements, and laundry rooms—thanks to water resistance and easy care.

Question 56

Is luxury vinyl good for bathrooms?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Its water resistance and durability make it ideal for humid, spill-prone spaces.

Question 57

What is laminate flooring?

Accepted Answer

A multi-layer synthetic floor with a protective wear layer, a printed design layer (wood/stone look), and an HDF core.

Question 58

Is laminate flooring waterproof?

Accepted Answer

It’s water-resistant, not fully waterproof. Newer versions handle spills better, but prolonged moisture can damage the core.

Question 59

How is laminate flooring made?

Accepted Answer

Layers are fused: wear layer, printed design, HDF core, and a stabilizing backing for moisture resistance.

Question 60

Why choose laminate flooring?

Accepted Answer

It’s affordable, scratch- and stain-resistant, comes in many styles, and often installs with DIY-friendly click systems.

Question 61

Why might laminate not be the best choice?

Accepted Answer

It’s moisture-sensitive, can’t be refinished, and while realistic, doesn’t fully match the authenticity of real wood.

Question 62

What thicknesses does laminate come in?

Accepted Answer

Commonly 6–12mm. Thicker products feel more substantial, dampen sound better, and can forgive minor subfloor imperfections.

Question 63

Is laminate good for homes with pets?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It’s durable and scratch-resistant, though it can be a bit slippery compared to softer surfaces.

Question 64

Is laminate a good alternative to wood?

Accepted Answer

For a budget-friendly, low-maintenance wood look, yes—though it lacks wood’s refinishability and natural feel.

Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

General Flooring Questions

Hardwood Flooring

Laminate Flooring

Vinyl Flooring

Tile Flooring

Carpet

Area Rugs

Carpet and Rug Cleaning

Commercial Flooring

Answers to Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

Inside AAFFAQ

General Flooring Questions

Hardwood Flooring

Laminate Flooring

Vinyl Flooring

Tile Flooring

Carpet

Area Rugs

Carpet and Rug Cleaning

Commercial Flooring

Wondering what works best in your home? Take a quiz:

Hard-Surface Quiz

Carpet Quiz

Outdoor Quiz