Hardwood flooring
inspections is becoming big business with
the increased number of hardwood floors we
find being installed in many homes today.
How do you know you may need an inspector?
Can't I just call an ordinary home
inspector? In recent years hardwood floors
have come under a lot of scrutiny.
Consumers expect more out of them due to
the cost involved. You may be lucky to
find a house inspector that has some
knowledge of hardwood floors, but we
prefer you call in the guidance of one
that has been through the schooling,
classes, and certification.
The National Wood
Flooring Association (NWFA) organized
their inspection certification program in
1998. Chief reasons included creating a
credible program where consumers could
turn for expert assistance in assessing
hardwood related installation and
refinishing problems.
Becoming a certified
inspector requires knowledge of the
industry, wood properties, and ability to
assess problems. Candidates are required
to pass a group of written exams. Upon
completion a probationary certification is
provided. During this period each
individual is required to complete five
inspections that are then forwarded to the
NWFA inspection committee for approval.
What Exactly Does
A Hardwood Inspector Do?
A hardwood flooring
inspector is an independent consultant. He
or she collects data of the products used,
timelines
from point of original
installation, records observations, takes
photographs and handles field testing to
evaluate the problem. Often in the case of
hardwood floors moisture meters are used.
When finalizing a
report of the problems, items on the
report include the obvious problem focus,
product and installation area description,
industry standards, and recommendations.
What Costs Can I
Expect To Pay?
This can vary wildly
depending on the extent of the problem.
However minimum inspections can run as low
as $ 250.00. Keep in mind, most product
failures are a result of installation
error, or the installer or finisher
overlooking fundamental factors they
should be aware of when it comes to
hardwood floors. Consumers may be able to
recognize whether or not an inspection is
necessary by reading through our page on
general warranties.
How Long Does It
Take To Get A Report?
Times will vary, but
one to three weeks is common |
