FLOORING QUESTIONS,
ANSWERED BY THE EXPERTS
Everything You Need to Know About Choosing, Installing, and Maintaining Floors
Our experts can help you pick out the perfect type of flooring to turn your home into your dream home.
We will work closely with you from start to finish to bring your vision to life, and we offer delivery, demolition, tear-outs, and professional flooring installation. Read through our frequently asked questions to get answers to your flooring questions, and then call us to schedule a consultation to find flooring solutions that meet your needs and budget.


Flooring Installation You Can Trust Across Central Iowa
We’re proud to serve homeowners within about two hours of Ankeny, including Ames, Des Moines, Newton, Marshalltown, Fort Dodge, and everywhere in between.
Wherever you call home, our team delivers professional service, dependable scheduling, and results you’ll love for years to come.
How do I know which flooring is best for my home?
Our team can help you compare materials based on your budget, room type, pets, and lifestyle. We’ll bring samples and explain the pros and cons of each option.
Do you remove old flooring?
Yes, we handle complete tear-out, disposal, and preparation before installing your new flooring.
Can you install flooring in multiple rooms or during a remodel?
Absolutely. Many of our customers choose to coordinate their flooring project with other improvements like kitchen or basement remodels. We can help you plan it all together.
How long does flooring installation take?
Most homes can be completed in one to three days, depending on the size of the space and materials used.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, all Bryan Companies flooring estimates are free and come with no obligation.
How do I choose the right carpet for my room?
When choosing carpet, you should consider your aesthetic and style, the architecture and decor in the room, what the room is used for, and your future plans for your home. You want durable, stain-resistant carpeting that is attractive and comfortable to walk on.
If you are installing carpeting in a high-traffic area like a stairway or living room, you should choose a denser loop-pile carpet made of durable material. When installing carpeting in rooms exposed to children, pets, food, and drink, or access to the outside, you should choose a low-pile, soil- and stain-resistant carpet. In rooms like bedrooms with less foot traffic, you can choose softer and plusher carpeting
Need help finding the perfect fit? Visit our Interactive Design Consultant to explore carpet options and see how they’ll look in your space..
Do I really need carpet padding?
Yes, a carpet pad protects your carpet, the flooring beneath, and your feet. The pad prevents wear and tear on the floor beneath as people walk across it and reduces stress on the carpet. It also adds thermal insulation and sound-reducing capabilities, making it more comfortable.
What is vinyl flooring?
Vinyl flooring, also called resilient flooring, is a synthetic flooring material available in a wide variety of styles, designs, colors, textures, and forms. Vinyl laminate flooring includes vinyl tiles, planks, or sheets designed to match any aesthetic, purpose, or need.
What goes under vinyl flooring?
As with all flooring, vinyl flooring requires an underlayment over the subfloor, creating a moisture-resistant seal. This protects the floor and subfloor from damage and makes the vinyl flooring more durable, comfortable, and soundproof. Some vinyl products have a fiberglass, cork, or foam backing that eliminates the need for installing an underlayment.
Can I install hardwood floors in any room in my house?
We can install natural hardwood floors in almost any room in your house. Natural wood can withstand heavy foot traffic and look amazing for decades, but it isn’t the best choice for any room with a lot of moisture or humidity, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, or basements.
What is laminate flooring?
Laminate flooring is manufactured and offers the same look and aesthetic as natural hardwood flooring. Laminate flooring is durable, low-maintenance, and easy to install and care for. It can mimic the appearance of natural wood at a fraction of the price and offers scratch, stain, and waterproof technologies.
Are luxury vinyl floors waterproof?
Yes, luxury vinyl flooring is waterproof and can be installed where the floor might get wet or be exposed to condensation or humidity.
Is luxury vinyl flooring durable?
Yes, luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring are incredibly durable. It is waterproof, scratch and stain-resistant, and will not be attractive to insects or pests. It also resists mold and mildew.
How thick should my laminate flooring be?
Your laminate flooring should be between 10mm and 14mm thick to offer comfort, durability, and quality. Thicker laminate flooring can withstand heavy foot traffic and is quieter underfoot. It also will last longer as it has increased impact resistance.
What is the difference between laminate and vinyl flooring?
Laminate and vinyl flooring are both affordable alternatives to natural wood flooring. Laminate flooring is constructed from multiple layers, including high-density fiberboard, melamine resin, a decorative top layer, and an integrated acoustic cork backing. Vinyl flooring is available in a wider range of thicknesses and is made of 100% synthetic materials with a PVC or SPC core so that it can be used in high-moisture areas like bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and mud rooms. You can also install specialty waterproof flooring in those areas.
What’s the difference between ceramic and glazed porcelain tile?
Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles are made differently and constructed from different materials. Porcelain tile is made from a more refined clay and fired at a higher temperature, making it very dense and durable. Ceramic tile is made of a mix of clay, minerals, and water and is fired at a lower temperature. Porcelain is considered a specialized type of ceramic tile with a ceramic glaze that gives it a protective finish.

Ready to get started?
If you’re ready to begin your new flooring journey, call us today at Bryan Flooring or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
We offer quality flooring solutions throughout Des Moines, IA, and provide start-to-finish services, including delivery, demolition, tear-out, and professional flooring installation. We carry a wide range of high-quality flooring materials and styles from trusted, reputable brands and manufacturers known for their quality.