When it’s time to replace or refinish your floors, choosing the right contractor can feel overwhelming. Some installers boast decades of experience, while others highlight certifications and training in the latest flooring technology.
So which matters more: hands-on experience or up-to-date education?
According to flooring professionals, it’s not an either-or situation. The best results come from craftsmen who bring both: the time-earned skills of experience and the knowledge of modern tools and techniques. That balance is exactly what sets apart companies like After Five Floors, a TrustDALE certified partner committed to combining tradition with innovation.
Why Both Experience and Education Matter
Flooring is constantly evolving. New materials, adhesives, and installation methods appear every year. A contractor who hasn’t updated their training may still be relying on outdated tools or techniques, which can compromise the finished product. On the other hand, education without real-world practice may lead to mistakes in execution.
As After Five Floors owner Sha Reason explains, “Twenty years of experience can sometimes mean one year of experience repeated 19 times.” In other words, longevity alone doesn’t guarantee quality. True craftsmanship requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and refine skills year after year.
The Tools and Training That Make a Difference
One of the clearest signs of a professional flooring company is its investment in training and equipment. After Five Floors sends crews to certification courses through organizations like the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), the World Floor Covering Association, and the International Certified Flooring Installers (CFI). These programs ensure installers understand new products and stay sharp on best practices.
The right tools are equally important. Flooring technology now includes innovations like sanding equipment with built-in LED lights that expose imperfections in dark corners, or guillotine-style cutters that make precise, dust-free cuts inside the home. These upgrades don’t just look impressive, they reduce mess, improve speed, and deliver a cleaner, longer-lasting finish.
As Reason points out, “There’s nothing like a well-equipped craftsman in your home. The right tools, paired with education, make good installers look even better.”
Signs of a Contractor You Can Trust
For homeowners, the challenge is knowing how to spot a reliable contractor before the work begins. Reviews are one of the most powerful tools. Reading both the best and worst feedback can reveal a company’s true reputation and how it treats customers.
Another insider tip: pay attention to a contractor’s vehicle and tools. A crew that arrives in a clean, organized van is more likely to treat your home with the same level of care. Professionalism shows up in the small details long before the first board is installed.
Why Big-Box Subcontractors Often Fall Short
Many homeowners turn to big-box retailers for flooring, only to discover later that installation is subcontracted out to multiple companies. This system can create breakdowns in communication and accountability. If issues arise, resolving them often means endless calls to customer service hotlines instead of direct access to the crew who did the work.
By contrast, a dedicated flooring company like After Five Floors manages the entire process from estimate to installation. This direct line between the customer and the craftsman eliminates the confusion and helps ensure the job is done right the first time.
A Smarter Way to Choose Your Flooring Partner
At the end of the day, homeowners deserve flooring that not only looks beautiful but also lasts for years. That’s why hiring a contractor with both real-world experience and ongoing education is so critical. Companies like After Five Floors take pride in being on the cutting edge while never losing sight of craftsmanship, professionalism, and customer service.
If you’re ready to upgrade your floors, TrustDALE recommends connecting with After Five Floors for an in-home consultation and written estimate. With their combination of experience, training, and advanced tools, they deliver results you’ll notice every time you step into the room.