Choose with clarity.
Practical questions to ask before you specify.
Plan beyond the finish.
Choosing flooring
Start with the room’s use, expected traffic, moisture exposure and subfloor. Compare installation methods, required underlayment, maintenance and repair options. Ask for samples before making a final color selection.
Specifying paints and sealers
Identify the substrate and exposure conditions. Request technical and safety data sheets, VOC information, preparation instructions, coverage rates and recoat times. “Low VOC” and “non-toxic” are not interchangeable guarantees.
Planning kitchen surfaces
Provide measurements, appliance locations and cutouts. Compare surface finish, edge profiles, stain resistance and care requirements. Have final dimensions checked before fabrication.
Estimating material quantities
Record the installed area and units for each material. Ask your installer to calculate cuts, pattern allowances and waste. Coverage varies by product and site conditions; confirm the final order quantity before purchase.
Reviewing environmental claims
Ask for product-specific documentation, applicable certifications and current manufacturer information. Check the scope of each claim against your project’s requirements.