For architects, designers and owners, rising material costs and the skilled labor shortage have raised the level of scrutiny when selecting flooring contractors. With more at stake in the commercial sector—including larger financial losses if flooring fails and potential risks to health and human safety in environments like hospitals—builders are increasingly requiring contractors to possess credentials that demonstrate expertise.
For flooring contractors, proving mastery and earning commercial clients’ trust is challenging, particularly for those just starting out. One hurdle is the age-old conundrum of getting experience without having experience. Another is the sheer number of flooring materials involved in commercial design. From carpet and LVT to resinous materials and concrete polishing, a commercial contractor needs a team that can flawlessly manage any material and cleanly transition between different materials to deliver aesthetics and long-term performance.
Earning certification involves a commitment to training that takes time and financial investment. Here’s a look at certification benefits from each perspective:
Real-world commercial experience for installers
Certification programs provided by accredited institutions give installers hands-on experience in real commercial environments—the very experience that is essential to win projects and is often elusive to beginners in the trade. This experience not only strengthens an installer’s skill set and confidence, but it also creates the credibility and trust that open doors.
A certified installer can also become manufacturer-specified by participating in specialized training for a specific flooring product. This designation can be attractive to potential clients, as it often comes with a warranty beyond the standard material guarantee.
Confidence for architects and designers
Knowing an installer is experienced with their chosen flooring material provides peace of mind for architects and designers. Certification helps guarantee a flooring installer will match the materials to the design vision and protect the finished floor’s look and longevity.
Added protection for project owners
Owners ultimately want flooring that meets their expectations and lasts, and installer certification means a higher probability of professional results and a lesser likelihood of repairs or replacements after installation is complete. An installer who is also manufacturer-specified offers owners the added benefit of faster warranty issue resolution and lower out- of-pocket costs should a problem arise.
Everyone stands to benefit
While commercial flooring projects are challenging, prioritizing installer certification allows all parties to benefit from formal training. Flooring contractors gain access to the real-world skills and experience that builds credibility; architects and designers enjoy aesthetic executions that align with their visions; and project owners receive flooring that delivers on long-term performance. Producing positive outcomes for every stakeholder, installer certification will undoubtedly become the standard in commercial floor covering projects.
David Gross is the executive director of INSTALL. He previously served as a full-time instructor at the Northeast Carpenter’s Apprenticeship Training Fund in Hamilton, N.J., and he has also sat on the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America executive board.
