Engineered Hardwood vs Solid Hardwood: What Works Best in Real Florida Homes

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. There is something timeless and undeniable about the beauty of real wood floors. It adds a level of warmth and value to a home that few other materials can match. However, when you live in Pinellas County or the surrounding areas like Trinity and Odessa, you are dealing with environmental factors that traditional wood just wasn’t designed to handle. The debate between Engineered Hardwood and Solid Hardwood is one we have every single day. While both are “real wood,” they behave very differently in our climate. Let’s talk about the structural differences between these two and why one is the clear winner for a real Florida home.

To understand the difference, we have to look at how they are made. Solid hardwood is exactly what it sounds like: a single, solid piece of wood from top to bottom. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is a layered product. It features a top layer of real hardwood veneer bonded over multiple layers of high-quality plywood or a high-density fiberboard core. These layers are stacked in a cross-grain configuration, which is the secret to its performance.

The biggest challenge we face in Florida is dimensional stability. Because wood is a natural, porous material, it acts like a sponge. When the humidity rises in Palm Harbor or the summer rains soak the ground in Odessa, wood absorbs that moisture and expands. When the air dries out, it contracts. In a solid piece of wood, this movement is powerful and directional. This leads to common Florida flooring disasters like cupping, where the edges of the boards rise, or crowning, where the center bulges. In extreme cases, solid wood can even pull itself right off the subfloor.

Engineered hardwood was practically designed for our climate. Those cross-grained layers underneath the top veneer act as a stabilizer. When one layer wants to expand, the layer beneath it pulls in the opposite direction, essentially canceling out the movement. This means that even during a humid Florida summer, your engineered floors stay flat and stable. This structural integrity is also why engineered wood is the only real wood product I recommend for installation directly over a concrete slab foundation, which is what almost every home in our area sits on. Solid hardwood generally requires a plywood subfloor built on top of the concrete, which adds significant cost and height to your floors.

Another factor to consider is the wear layer. A common misconception is that you can’t refinish engineered wood. While it is true that solid wood can be sanded down many times, a high-quality engineered floor with a thick wear layer can also be refinished once or twice if needed. However, most modern engineered floors come with incredibly tough, factory-applied finishes that are far more durable than a finish applied on-site. For most homeowners, the need to sand and refinish is a rarity that doesn’t outweigh the risk of solid wood warping.

In my professional opinion, if you want the luxury of real wood in Pinellas or Pasco County, Engineered Hardwood is the superior choice. It gives you the exact same look, feel, and smell of solid wood but with the engineered strength to withstand the moisture and heat of the Sunshine State. It is a smarter investment that provides beauty without the constant worry of environmental damage.

Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

Do I Need to Leave My House During Flooring Installation?

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. One of the most common logistical questions I get from homeowners in Pinellas, Palm Harbor, Trinity, and Odessa is whether they need to pack their bags and move out while we work. It is a valid concern—after all, your home is your sanctuary, and the thought of living in a construction zone can be stressful. The short answer is that while you don’t always have to leave, your daily routine will certainly shift. Let’s talk about what to expect during an installation and how to decide if staying or going is the right choice for your family.
The decision often comes down to the scale of the project and the type of material being installed. If we are replacing the flooring in a single bedroom or a home office, staying is incredibly easy. We simply close the door to that room, and the rest of your home remains fully functional. However, if we are tackling the main living areas, the kitchen, or the primary hallways that connect your house, the disruption is much more significant. In those cases, you have to consider how much “camping out” in your own home you are willing to do.
If you choose to stay, you must be prepared for noise, dust, and limited access. We use professional-grade saws and tools that are loud, and even with our clean-installation practices, some dust is inevitable. More importantly, certain materials require cure times. For example, if we are installing porcelain tile, you cannot walk on the freshly laid tiles or the new grout for at least 24 to 48 hours. If that tile is in your only bathroom or blocking the path to your kitchen, staying home becomes very difficult. On the other hand, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a “dry” installation, meaning you can typically walk on it as soon as the last plank clicks into place.
Safety is another major factor, particularly for families with small children or curious pets. An active job site has moving parts, sharp tools, and heavy materials being shifted around. If you cannot keep your kids or pets in a completely separate, secure area of the house while we work, it is often safer and less stressful to stay with a friend or book a short-term rental for a few days. We take every precaution to keep our workspace tidy, but it is still a construction zone during work hours.
For many of my clients in Trinity and Odessa, the most popular compromise is to stay in the home but plan to be out during the actual work hours. This allows you to avoid the loudest part of the day while still sleeping in your own bed at night. We are always happy to work in phases, completing one section of the house at a time so you always have a “clean zone” to live in. We prioritize clear communication, so you’ll always know which rooms are off-limits and for how long.
Ultimately, my goal at Given Flooring is to make the transformation of your home as seamless as possible. Whether you decide to head to the beach for a few days or stick around to watch the progress, we will coordinate every detail to ensure you return to a beautiful, professionally installed floor without the headache.
Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

Best Flooring for Vacation Rentals and Beach Homes in Pinellas County

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. If you own a vacation rental or a beach home along our beautiful Gulf coast, from St. Pete Beach up through Clearwater and Dunedin, you know that your property faces a unique set of challenges. You are dealing with a revolving door of guests, constant tracking of sand, wet swimsuits, and the ever-present Florida humidity. In this environment, your flooring is essentially on the front lines. You need a surface that is durable enough to handle high turnover but beautiful enough to earn those five-star reviews. Let’s talk about the best flooring options that will keep your rental looking pristine and your maintenance costs low.

The biggest enemy of a beach home is sand. It acts like sandpaper on traditional finishes, quickly dulling the shine of hardwood or scratching softer materials. When you combine that with guests coming in straight from the pool or the shore, moisture becomes a massive concern. A floor that absorbs water or swells in the humidity will not survive a single season. For a successful vacation rental, you must prioritize materials that are 100% waterproof and have a high resistance to abrasion.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is often the top recommendation for rental owners throughout Pinellas County. It offers the high-end look of wood that travelers love, but it is built to handle the chaos of a vacation. Because it is completely waterproof, you do not have to worry about a guest leaving a wet towel on the floor or a spilled drink that goes unnoticed for hours. When choosing LVP for a rental, I always suggest going with a high-quality wear layer, at least 20 mil thick. This ensures the floor can withstand the heavy foot traffic and the abrasive nature of beach sand without showing wear. LVP is also quieter underfoot than tile, which can be a huge plus if you have a multi-story rental where noise travel is a concern.

Another fantastic choice for the coastal lifestyle is Porcelain Tile. If you want a floor that is virtually indestructible, this is it. Tile is completely impervious to water and is the most scratch-resistant option on the market. It stays naturally cool, which is a big selling point for guests looking to escape the Florida heat. For beach properties, I recommend choosing a tile with a bit of texture to provide slip resistance for those wet feet coming in from the surf. Using a larger format tile with minimal, high-quality grout lines will also make the floor much easier for your cleaning crew to mop between guests.

While some owners are tempted by laminate because of the lower price point, I generally advise against it for high-turnover beach rentals. Even the best waterproof laminates often rely on wood-based cores that can struggle with the sheer volume of moisture found in a coastal environment. In a rental scenario, you want a floor that gives you total peace of mind, and the non-porous cores of LVP or the solid nature of porcelain tile are the only ways to guarantee that.

Investing in the right flooring for your vacation rental is a strategic business decision. By choosing a material that can handle water, sand, and heavy use, you protect your property’s value and ensure a better experience for your guests. Whether you are managing a cozy condo in Madeira Beach or a large family home in Tierra Verde, the right floor will serve as a beautiful, durable foundation for years to come.

Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

Your Complete Guide to Getting a Flooring Quote in Pinellas County

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. Whether you are looking to refresh a beach cottage in Clearwater or a modern family home in Land O’ Lakes, getting a flooring quote can feel like a daunting task. Most homeowners start the process by looking at a single number on a price tag, but a truly professional quote is much more than that. It is a comprehensive roadmap for your project that ensures your investment is protected against our unique Florida climate. Let’s talk about what a complete, professional flooring quote should look like so you can move forward with total confidence.

The foundation of an accurate quote is a professional, in-home measurement. While it is tempting to provide your own dimensions, a pro sees the things a tape measure might miss. They check for door clearances, transitions between different rooms, and most importantly, the condition of your subfloor. In Pinellas and Pasco counties, where many homes sit on concrete slabs, the subfloor is the most critical variable. A professional quote must include an assessment of your subfloor’s flatness and moisture levels. If a contractor doesn’t mention moisture testing or a moisture barrier during the quoting process, they are missing the most essential step for a successful Florida installation.

A reliable quote will also be fully itemized. This means you should see a clear breakdown of the material costs, including the specific brand, style, and color of the flooring you chose. This ensures you are getting exactly what you paid for. The quote should also detail the labor costs and, very importantly, the preparation work. This includes the removal and disposal of your old flooring, any necessary subfloor leveling, and the installation of underlayment or moisture barriers. Budget-friendly quotes often hide these costs or skip them entirely, leading to a floor that might look good on day one but fails a year later.

Beyond the numbers, a complete quote serves as a written agreement on the scope of work. It should outline the expected timeline for the project, including the time needed for materials to acclimate to your home’s humidity. You should also see details regarding the protection of your home, such as dust containment and furniture moving. A professional quote will clearly state the terms of the workmanship guarantee. While the manufacturer covers the material, your installer should stand behind their labor with a separate, written warranty. This is your insurance that the job was done correctly and that the company will be there for you if you have questions down the road.

Finally, a professional quote should be presented with proof of the contractor’s credentials. This includes a valid business license and current insurance certificates for both general liability and workers’ compensation. Having this information upfront protects you from liability and proves you are working with a legitimate, local business. When you receive a quote that covers all these bases, you aren’t just getting a price; you are getting a commitment to quality and a plan for a beautiful, long-lasting floor.

Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

How to Choose a Professional Flooring Installer in Pinellas or Pasco County

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. When you decide to invest in new floors for your home, the material you choose is only part of the equation. Whether you live in the heart of St. Petersburg or the growing neighborhoods of Land O’ Lakes, the quality of the installation is what truly determines if your investment lasts five years or fifty. This is especially true here in Pinellas and Pasco counties, where our unique environment demands specific technical skills. Let’s talk about how to find a professional flooring installer who understands our local challenges and will treat your home with the respect it deserves.

The first thing you should look for is a deep understanding of local environmental factors. In our part of Florida, most homes are built on concrete slabs that naturally pull moisture from the ground. A professional installer from this area will never treat a job as a simple plug-and-play task. They should proactively discuss moisture testing and the necessity of a moisture barrier. If a contractor tells you they can just lay down Luxury Vinyl Plank or engineered wood without checking the slab or using a barrier, they are setting you up for a disaster of warping and mold. A true pro knows that in Pinellas and Pasco, the prep work under the floor is just as important as the planks on top.

Experience and local reputation are your next best indicators of quality. Ask potential installers how long they have been working specifically in the Tampa Bay area. Every region has its quirks, and you want someone who has seen it all, from the sandy coastal homes of Clearwater to the older suburban foundations in New Port Richey. Do not hesitate to ask for local references or to see photos of completed projects that are similar to yours. A reliable company should be able to point to a history of satisfied neighbors. You can also verify their standing by checking for a valid business license and, most importantly, proof of current insurance. This protects you from liability and ensures you are working with a legitimate business.

Transparency in the bidding process is another hallmark of a professional. When you receive a quote, it should be detailed and easy to understand. It needs to account for more than just the square footage of the material. A comprehensive bid will include the cost of removing the old flooring, disposing of debris, prepping the subfloor, and installing the necessary trim and transitions. If a quote seems unusually low compared to others, it is often because that installer is planning to skip the essential preparation steps. Professional labor has a fair market price, and a reliable contractor will explain exactly where your money is going to ensure a high-quality result.

Finally, pay attention to the level of communication and professional conduct. A quality flooring team will show up when they say they will and provide a realistic timeline for the project. They should be willing to explain the “why” behind their methods, such as why a certain leveling compound needs time to cure or why the flooring needs to acclimate to your home’s humidity. Choosing an installer who is communicative and detail-oriented gives you peace of mind that the job is being done right the first time.

By focusing on moisture expertise, local experience, and transparent business practices, you can find a partner who will transform your home. Your floors are a major part of your daily life, and they deserve a professional touch.

Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

What Type of Flooring is Best for Dogs in Pinellas County

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. For those of us living across Pinellas and Pasco counties, our dogs are more than just pets; they are family members who share every inch of our homes. However, our four-legged friends can be incredibly tough on floors. Between the sharp claws, the occasional accident, and the wet paws coming in from a rainy afternoon, choosing the right material is essential for your peace of mind. You want a home that looks beautiful, but you also need a surface that can stand up to the daily activity of an active dog. Let’s talk about the best flooring options for dog owners that balance durability, water resistance, and comfort.

The primary concern for any dog owner in Florida is scratch resistance. Dogs, especially larger breeds, can easily gouge or dull the finish on traditional materials like solid hardwood. This leads to expensive refinishing projects every few years. Additionally, we have to consider moisture. Whether it is a spilled water bowl or a puppy still in training, you need a floor that will not swell or warp when it gets wet. In our humid climate, a floor that absorbs moisture also risks trapping odors and mold.

One of the top choices for dog owners in our area is Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP). This material is a favorite from St. Petersburg up to New Port Richey because it is specifically engineered to be 100% waterproof. If your dog has an accident or knocks over a water dish while you are at work, the liquid will sit on the surface without damaging the core of the floor. Just as importantly, LVP features a thick, rugged wear layer. This clear protective coating is designed to resist the scratches and scuffs caused by dog nails. It also provides a bit more traction than tile, which helps older dogs feel more secure as they move around the house.

Another excellent option is Porcelain Tile. If you have a high-energy dog or a household with multiple pets, tile is nearly indestructible. It is completely waterproof and incredibly difficult to scratch. It also offers a natural cooling effect, which your dog will certainly appreciate during a hot Clearwater summer. The main consideration with tile is the grout. I always recommend using a high-quality, stain-resistant grout or ensuring the grout is professionally sealed. This prevents pet messes from soaking into the porous lines and causing permanent odors. Tile is a “set it and forget it” solution that can handle the heaviest wear and tear.

Some homeowners still prefer the look of real wood, and for them, Engineered Hardwood with a very hard factory finish can work, though it requires more maintenance. If you go this route, look for species with a high Janka hardness rating and consider a wire-brushed or distressed texture. These textures help hide any minor scratches that might occur over time. However, for most busy pet households in Land O’ Lakes or Seminole, the worry-free nature of LVP or tile usually makes them the better long-term investment.

Choosing the right floor means you can spend more time playing with your dog and less time worrying about your home. Focus on materials that offer a combination of a high-quality wear layer and a waterproof core. This ensures your floors stay looking new regardless of how many paws are running across them.

Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful home is a beautiful floor.

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida.
Choosing new floors is an exciting step, but let me tell you, the material you select is
only half the battle. The single most important factor determining how long your new
floor will last is the quality of the installation. Even the highest-grade, most expensive
Luxury Vinyl Plank will fail prematurely if the installer cuts corners, especially when it
comes to moisture preparation here in Pinellas County. Finding a truly reliable,
professional installer is crucial to protecting your investment. Let’s talk about the key
questions you need to ask and the signs of a reliable contractor.
The first thing you must confirm is their experience with the Pinellas County climate.
Ask installers about their specific process for dealing with concrete slabs and high
humidity. A reliable installer will immediately mention moisture testing and the need for
a moisture barrier before laying any new flooring on a slab. If they dismiss moisture
testing as unnecessary or skip the moisture barrier, that’s a massive red flag. They
simply do not understand the challenges of our environment, and their work will fail. A
professional understands that Florida prep work is mandatory, not optional.
Next, you need to verify their credentials and reputation. Ask to see their current
business license and insurance information. Insurance is non-negotiable; it protects
you and your home should anything go wrong during the installation. Beyond
paperwork, ask for recent local references—not just pictures, but phone numbers for
clients who live nearby. A reliable company will gladly provide these. You can also
check online reviews, but focus on reading the responses. A professional company will
address negative feedback constructively and stand behind their work.
Another vital point is transparency in pricing and warranty. A reliable quote will be
detailed, breaking down the cost of the material, the labor, and all necessary
preparation steps like tear-out, leveling, and moisture mitigation. If a quote is
suspiciously low, it usually means they are sacrificing one of those essential steps.
Furthermore, ask about the labor warranty. The material itself comes with a
manufacturer’s warranty, but the installer should provide a separate, written labor
warranty covering their craftsmanship. A minimum one-year labor warranty
demonstrates confidence in their work. If an installer only offers the material warranty,
they are not truly standing behind their own installation.
Finally, consider the communication and professionalism of their team. Did they
show up on time for the consultation? Did they listen to your specific needs, like
concerns about pets or allergies? A reliable company communicates clearly, sets
realistic expectations about the timeline—including crucial cure times for grout or
leveling compound—and respects your home. A flooring installation is disruptive, so you
want a team that is professional, clean, and courteous from start to finish.

In Pinellas County, choosing a reliable installer is about demanding expertise in
moisture control, requiring clear credentials, and insisting on transparent warranties. Do
your homework, ask these hard questions, and choose a team that prioritizes the
longevity of your home.
Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful
home is a beautiful floor

How Much Does New Flooring Cost in Pinellas County?

Hi everyone! Joshua Given here, owner of Given Flooring in Seminole, Florida. One of
the very first things people ask when they call us is, “How much is this going to cost?”
It’s a completely fair question, but the honest answer is: it depends. The cost of new
flooring in Pinellas County isn’t just about the price tag on the material; it’s about a
comprehensive package that includes the material itself, the necessary Florida-specific
preparation, and the professional labor to install it correctly. Cutting corners on any of
these factors, especially here in a high-humidity zone, is a recipe for a floor that fails
early. Let’s talk about the key components that determine the final cost of your new
floor.

The total price of your flooring project can be broken down into three main categories.
First, there is the Material Cost, which is the price per square foot for the floor you
choose. Here’s a general range for the materials that perform best in our Florida
climate. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) usually ranges from $3.00 to $7.00 per square foot
for the material alone. The cost depends on the core type, the thickness of the plank,
and, most importantly, the thickness and quality of the wear layer. You should look for
20 mil or higher for longevity. Porcelain Tile prices typically range from $2.00 to $8.00
per square foot. The cost depends on the size, finish, and pattern complexity. Large
format tiles often cost more but require less grout, while unique, decorative tiles can
push the price higher.
Second is the Preparation and Remediation phase. This is the part of the budget that
homeowners often overlook, but it’s crucial in Pinellas County. Our concrete slab
foundations are prone to moisture issues, and old floors leave behind messes. Your
installation cost must factor in Tear-Out and Disposal of old materials and, most
importantly, Moisture Testing and Barrier. Testing the subfloor for moisture and
applying a professional-grade moisture barrier before any material is laid is non-
negotiable for LVP and engineered wood here in Florida. You also need to factor in
Leveling the Subfloor because concrete slabs are rarely perfectly flat. Applying a
leveling compound to ensure a smooth, stable surface prevents future gaps and plank
failures. Preparation costs can add anywhere from $1.00 to $3.00 per square foot to
the total project, but skipping this step voids most manufacturer warranties and
guarantees failure in the face of Florida humidity.
The third component is Labor and Installation, which is the professional skill required
to execute the job correctly. Labor costs depend heavily on the complexity of the
material. LVP Installation labor generally runs between $2.00 and $4.00 per square
foot. The installation is relatively straightforward, which helps keep this cost reasonable.
Tile Installation labor is significantly higher, typically ranging from $5.00 to $12.00 per
square foot. This is because the process is labor-intensive, requiring careful application
of mortar, precision setting of each tile, and later, the grouting process.
When you combine all three categories, here are the estimated total installed costs for
the best materials in Pinellas County. High-quality LVP installed is roughly $6.00 to
$11.00 per square foot total. Porcelain Tile installed is roughly $9.00 to $23.00 per
square foot total. If you’re seeing a quote that is significantly lower than these ranges,
you need to ask exactly what is being excluded. Are they skipping the moisture barrier?
Are they using a low-quality material with a thin wear layer? As a homeowner, your
biggest defense against bad flooring is demanding transparency and ensuring the quote
covers the essential Florida prep work. Investing a little more up front ensures you won’t
have to pay to replace the floor five years down the road.
Until next time, this is Joshua Given reminding you that the foundation of a beautiful
home is a beautiful floor.