Finding the right flooring company for your commercial project here in Nashville is a high-stakes endeavor. As a long-term investment and a reflection of your brand, your floors must be durable, safe, attractive, and able to withstand the wet winter weather and summer heat and humidity. If you’re planning a retail outlet or a business with a high amount of foot traffic, certain materials are better suited to these conditions than others.
To ensure you’re making the best choice, you’ll need knowledgeable guidance from experienced and certified contractors who can demonstrate expertise in commercial-scale work.
At Ozburn-Hessey, we know how important this process is, so we’ve put together a guide to help you with your shortlist and selection process.
Commercial Flooring Is Different From Residential
Commercial flooring projects come with demands that residential projects don’t. From higher foot traffic and ADA compliance to public safety concerns (slips and trips) and strict installation timelines, commercial flooring requires specialized knowledge, durable materials, and the right installation techniques. Not all commercial flooring companies can make the grade, which is why it’s critical to vet prospective contractors carefully.
Whether you’re looking to improve your office flooring, create a new retail space, or update a high-end hotel, your materials and installation crews must understand key performance priorities and how different types of floors work (or don’t work) in Middle Tennessee conditions.
Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials
Before reviewing your materials options, it’s important to confirm your contractor’s credentials. Ensuring they’re fully licensed and insured for commercial work protects your business from liabilities associated with required building codes and safety standards. Reputable contractors will have no hesitation in providing proof of insurance and required certifications.
Look for Local Experience in Commercial Flooring Companies
The Middle Tennessee environment and regional commercial codes make partnering with a locally based flooring company a must. Ask about recent projects prospective contractors have completed in the area and request references from businesses similar to yours. Contractors who regularly work in the region are better equipped to recommend and source appropriate materials and will understand what they might encounter with subflooring subjected to seasonal conditions.
For added peace of mind, consult their website and browse their portfolio. If all you see are residential projects, it may indicate that your prospective company is the wrong fit.
Evaluate Flooring Materials and Installation Expertise
Flooring companies equipped to work on commercial projects will have demonstrated expertise in a variety of floor types, such as wood floor installation, laminate flooring installation, hardwood flooring installation, and more, each of which requires different preparation, installation, and curing times.
An experienced flooring company should confidently explain which materials are best suited to your space, budget, and needs.
Ask About Subfloor Preparation and Project Scope
Subfloor preparation is one of the most important components of the flooring process and is easily overlooked by inexperienced installation crews. Proper leveling or grinding, along with moisture mitigation, is essential to preventing premature wear, buckling, shifting, or total flooring failures. A knowledgeable commercial contractor will walk you through their preparation process, outlining everything that’s involved and why.
You should feel confident that the company’s contractors understand the scope of your work needs through proof of similar completed projects.
Compare Your Options
Part of the shortlisting process (and one that nobody enjoys but is crucial) is requesting and comparing written, itemized bids from at least three flooring companies. Look beyond the bottom-line price and compare other issues essential to your project—things like timelines, materials, and installation methods. Ask about manufacturer warranties and installation warranties, along with the flooring company’s portfolio of suppliers. Transparent pricing helps avoid costly surprises, and a robust supplier list ensures your expectations are met. The goal is to find the best value.
Choosing a Trusted Local Partner
At Ozburn-Hessey, we partner with world-class manufacturing companies and have over 30 years of industry experience. It’s this level of quality craftsmanship that guarantees uncompromising outcomes. Our certified technicians provide the guidance you can rely on when evaluating your flooring options, and the installation expertise needed to meet your goals. Serving Nashville and the Middle Tennessee region, including Madison, Hendersonville, Brentwood, Franklin, Green Hills, and Antioch, you can’t go wrong with our highly rated team.
If you’re planning a commercial flooring project and want results that stand the test of time, contact Ozburn-Hesey today to schedule a consultation and receive a custom quote from Nashville’s trusted flooring experts.