Questions to ask when building a shower
A leak-proof shower starts with the right waterproofing system, materials, and installation
Not all waterproofing systems are equal. Some make complete systems while others are only pieces that need others to complete an entire shower.
Porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone tiles all offer different aesthetics and have different care needs, while acrylic or laminate panels offer faster install and less maintenances.
Many leaks start with the shower floor. Knowing how the pan is built, sloped and drained will all effect the overall design and effectiveness of the shower floor.
Weak points matter. Any connection point between two angles create potential water hazards. Benches, niches, corners, and wall transitions all create areas of potential leakage.
Knowing what the warranty covers and what could void it are very important factors. Whether covered by the manufacturer or installer, all warranties are not created equal.
Questions to ask when buying tile
A great tile floor comes from the right product, the right prep, installation, maintenance, and the right guidance
Porcelain is denser and better for moisture, pets, and heavy traffic. Ceramic is a great value for light-use areas.
Pei measures durability, Kitchen and living areas should be PEI 3 or higher.
Rectified tile allows smaller grout lines and a modern look. Non-rectified is more forgiving.
Grout affects maintenance. Ask about stain-resistant or epoxy grout and sealing requirements.
Tile may require cement board, membranes, crack isolation, or leveling.
Questions to ask when buying wood
The right engineered hardwood combines a quality wear layer, stable core, proper installation, and maintenance
Durability of wood is heavily determined by the species using the “Janka Scale”. All wood can scratch, however woods higher in the Janka Scale are more resistant to impact damage.
The wear layer determines longevity and refinishability. 1-2mm is mainly cosmetic with limited refinishing. 3mm or more can often be refinished at least once for better long-term value.
Plywood cores are more stable and better with humidity changes. HDF cores are smooth and dense but less moisture tolerant. A stable core reduces cupping, gapping, and warping.
Not all engineered hardwood can be sanded. Ask if refinishing is allowed under warranty and whether it supports screen-and-recoat or full sanding.
Engineered hardwood may be installed floating, glue-down, or nail-down. Installation method affects cost, sound, feel, and warranty coverage.
Questions to ask when buying LVP
A great vinyl floor comes from choosing the right core, wear layer, prep, installation, and maintenance
The wear layer protects against scratches and daily wear. 6-12 mil is best for light residential use. 20 mil or more is ideal for busy homes, pets, kids, rentals, or commercial spaces.
SPC is rigid and dent-resistant for high traffic. WPC is softer, quieter, and more forgiving. Standard LVP is budget-friendly but less rigid.
Many floors are water-resistant, not waterproof. Ask if it can handle spills, pets, mopping, and what the warranty actually covers.
Ask if there is an attached pad, moisture protection needs, and how flat the subfloor must be. Skipping prep is the #1 cause of flooring failures.
Quality LVP should have embossed-in-register texture, matte or low-gloss finish, and natural plank variation for a realistic hardwood look.
Questions to ask when buying carpet
The right carpet combines the right fiber, proper padding, realistic expectations, and proper maintenance
Fiber determines performance and feel. Nylon is the most durable for high traffic. Triexta or PET is soft and stain-resistant for families. Wool is premium, natural, luxurious option.
Face weight measures how much yarn is in the carpet. Higher face weight usually means better durability, especially for hallways, stairs, and living rooms.
Solution-dyed fibers lock color into the fiber for better stain and fade resistance. Topical treatments can fade or wear off over time.
Padding matters as much as carpet. Ask about density (6lb vs 8lb), thickness limits, moisture barriers, and warranty requirements.
Ask about pet warranties, stain resistance, and pattern vs solid styles to help hide wear and extend the carpet’s life.