PREVENTING HARDWOOD COLOR REMORSE

PREVENTING HARDWOOD COLOR REMORSE

Picking a hardwood color floor can be a daunting challenge for any homeowner. Colors, textures, style and tastes vary with every personality. There is nothing worse than having a floor installed to only regret it after it is too late. The best way to combat this is by knowing your customer.

Understanding a client’s personal style and unique tastes is key in choosing a look they will love for years to come. Here are some ways to avoid color and flooring choice remorse.

KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER:

Identify your client’s likes and dislikes to eliminate things to steer towards and away from. Colors, patterns, modern or traditional style. Observe their living habits, and their personality. How often do they clean? Low or high maintenance? Detail oriented or more laid back?

ASK QUESTIONS:

Color options, textures and patterns can heavily influence a customer’s decision. Give options but don’t overwhelm your clients. Identify early on what a customer likes and go with similar choices.

KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS:

Research new finishes and stains.  Educate yourself on different products to not only be competitive and stand out from the rest, having product knowledge builds a client’s trust with you. The last thing you want is a customer thinking you don’t know what you are selling. Keep abreast of new products entering the market as well.

BE REALISTIC:

For instance, if a customer has five children and three dogs there are obviously choices that they should lean towards or stay away from. Help guide them in the right direction.

EDUCATE YOUR CLIENT

Let homeowners know the importance of care. Consider giving your client the gift of maintenance knowledge. A Cleaning Kit with floor care tips would be a thoughtful and much appreciated gesture.

The completed floor project will only look as good as they are cared for. Remind clients about closing their blinds to prevent UV damage and to put felts under their furniture to avoid scratches.

Suggest the importance of taking off their shoes when entering the home. Not only is it a lot more sanitary, it will help keep their hardwood floors looking good for years to come.

According to flooring experts, not many contractors have had color choice regret issues because they have listened to their client and anticipated their needs. The main issues they have had is flooring maintenance mistakes that contribute to wear and fading.

These elements will help your client choose the correct flooring to suit their needs as well as their tastes. You must encourage them to think of the big picture. The years they will be living with this floor and how their lifestyle choices will impact it. Being knowledgeable about your products and understanding your client will prevent any remorse when it comes to their flooring choices.

Any true hardwood flooring master will know how to interpret their customer’s lifestyle and personality to give them a floor they and their family will adore.