All Surfaces Wholesale Floors To Go

Texas does not issue a single statewide flooring contractor license the way some trades are licensed in other states. That said, contractors should still be properly insured, bonded when required, and compliant with local rules. Cities or counties (including permit requirements in Houston) can require trade registrations or building permits for remodels, so always ask a contractor for proof of general liability insurance, written references, a contractor registration if your locality requires it, and any permits they will pull.

Houston’s high heat and humidity favor materials that tolerate moisture and dimensional movement. Good choices include porcelain or ceramic tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and engineered hardwood (rather than solid hardwood) when installed with proper moisture control. For slab-on-grade homes, contractors should test concrete moisture and install appropriate vapor barriers or underlayments. Avoid installing solid hardwood in bathrooms, laundries, or basements and ensure any wood products are acclimated before installation.

Get a detailed written estimate that lists materials (including brand and grade), labor, prep work, removal/disposal, permits, start and finish dates, and payment schedule. Confirm the contractor’s insurance and ask for references and photos of similar jobs. Expect site prep (floor leveling, subfloor repairs, moisture testing), acclimation time for wood products, and manufacturer-recommended curing times (tile grout, adhesives). Clarify manufacturer warranties vs. the installer’s workmanship warranty and ask for both in writing. Finally, get change-order procedures and cleanup responsibilities documented before work begins.