Flooring Questions Answered by Sanford Flooring

Start with the room's purpose and traffic level, then think about moisture exposure, your lifestyle, and your budget. A bedroom has very different requirements from a kitchen or mudroom. High-traffic or wet areas generally call for tile, LVP, or durable carpet. Living spaces and bedrooms have more flexibility. Our team provides free in-home estimates to help you navigate these decisions without pressure.

Tile, luxury vinyl plank (LVP), and quality hardwood are among the most durable options. Tile is the toughest in wet environments. LVP excels in high-traffic, moisture-prone spaces. Hardwood adds lasting value in drier environments with appropriate care. The most durable choice depends on the specific room and lifestyle.

A typical single room installs in one to two days. Multi-room projects, staircase work, or projects requiring significant subfloor preparation may take several days. We give you a realistic timeline at the estimate stage.

In most cases, yes, though our team can discuss options during the estimate. We do not typically move large appliances, but we can work through the details of furniture logistics during your pre-installation consultation.

LVP (luxury vinyl plank) replicates the look of hardwood using a vinyl construction with a realistic printed surface. Hardwood is real wood. LVP is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and lower-maintenance. Hardwood adds more long-term home value and can be refinished. LVP is the more practical choice for active households, wet areas, and budget-conscious buyers.

Quality LVP products are fully waterproof, the core and surface layers do not absorb water. This makes LVP suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements. Note that while the planks are waterproof, prolonged standing water at seams can eventually work its way into the subfloor. Proper installation minimizes this risk.

Yes. LVP is one of the best options for below-grade spaces because of its waterproof construction and resistance to humidity. It also handles slight subfloor imperfections better than hardwood or laminate.

Yes, though hardwood requires acclimation to the home's temperature and humidity before installation. Maine's climate, particularly the seasonal humidity swings, makes proper acclimation important. Our installation team handles this as a standard part of every hardwood project.

Solid hardwood is a single piece of wood throughout the plank. Engineered hardwood has a real wood veneer over a multi-layer plywood core. Engineered hardwood is more dimensionally stable in varied humidity, making it a better choice for many Maine homes, particularly at or below grade.

Nylon is generally the most durable carpet fiber for active households. Stainmaster products are designed specifically for stain resistance and durability. Our showroom staff can walk you through options based on your specific situation, traffic level, pet type, and cleaning preferences all factor into the recommendation.

Quality carpet in a standard household typically lasts 10 to 20 years with proper care. High-traffic areas wear faster. Proper padding, regular vacuuming, and prompt stain treatment extend life significantly.

Porcelain tile with a slip-resistant surface rating is the most popular and practical choice for bathroom floors. It is durable, waterproof, and available in a wide range of sizes and styles. Natural stone is also an option but requires sealing.

Costs vary based on shower size, tile selection, waterproofing requirements, and features like niches, benches, or linear drains. We provide detailed estimates after visiting your space, contact us at (207) 324-3643 to start the conversation.