Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida.
Choosing new floors is an exciting step, but let me tell you, the material you select is
only half the battle. The single most important factor determining how long your new
floor will last is the quality of the installation. Even the highest-grade, most expensive
Luxury Vinyl Plank will fail prematurely if the installer cuts corners, especially when it
comes to moisture preparation here in Pinellas County. Finding a truly reliable,
professional installer is crucial to protecting your investment. Let’s talk about the key
questions you need to ask and the signs of a reliable contractor.
The first thing you must confirm is their experience with the Pinellas County climate.
Ask installers about their specific process for dealing with concrete slabs and high
humidity. A reliable installer will immediately mention moisture testing and the need for
a moisture barrier before laying any new flooring on a slab. If they dismiss moisture
testing as unnecessary or skip the moisture barrier, that’s a massive red flag. They
simply do not understand the challenges of our environment, and their work will fail. A
professional understands that Florida prep work is mandatory, not optional.
Next, you need to verify their credentials and reputation. Ask to see their current
business license and insurance information. Insurance is non-negotiable; it protects
you and your home should anything go wrong during the installation. Beyond
paperwork, ask for recent local references—not just pictures, but phone numbers for
clients who live nearby. A reliable company will gladly provide these. You can also
check online reviews, but focus on reading the responses. A professional company will
address negative feedback constructively and stand behind their work.
Another vital point is transparency in pricing and warranty. A reliable quote will be
detailed, breaking down the cost of the material, the labor, and all necessary
preparation steps like tear-out, leveling, and moisture mitigation. If a quote is
suspiciously low, it usually means they are sacrificing one of those essential steps.
Furthermore, ask about the labor warranty. The material itself comes with a
manufacturer’s warranty, but the installer should provide a separate, written labor
warranty covering their craftsmanship. A minimum one-year labor warranty
demonstrates confidence in their work. If an installer only offers the material warranty,
they are not truly standing behind their own installation.
Finally, consider the communication and professionalism of their team. Did they
show up on time for the consultation? Did they listen to your specific needs, like
concerns about pets or allergies? A reliable company communicates clearly, sets
realistic expectations about the timeline—including crucial cure times for grout or
leveling compound—and respects your home. A flooring installation is disruptive, so you
want a team that is professional, clean, and courteous from start to finish.

In Pinellas County, choosing a reliable installer is about demanding expertise in
moisture control, requiring clear credentials, and insisting on transparent warranties. Do
your homework, ask these hard questions, and choose a team that prioritizes the
longevity of your home.
Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful
home is a beautiful floor