Flooring is one of the last things installed but one of the first things you should decide. Vince and Nathan walk through smart flooring choices for new builds and remodels—how thickness impacts stair code and transitions, why engineered wood often wins, where LVP and epoxy make sense, the truth about tile and radiant heat, and why you should stop scrolling Pinterest after you pick. Plus, a few cost realities and the “dirty little secret” about future remodels.
Big Takeaways
- Pick flooring early. It affects stair rise/run, door clearances, and transitions.
- Thickness matters. 3/4” hardwood vs 3/8”–5/8” engineered changes stair math and room-to-room heights.
- Plan for transitions. Avoid trip-hazard reducers by balancing hardwood thickness with tile underlayments or sunken slab details.
- Engineered wood + urethane glue gives moisture protection and stability. Great in kitchens and even primary baths when installed right.
- Tile looks great, costs more to install. Labor and setting materials add up fast.
- Epoxy in basements is durable, easy to clean, and water-friendly. Think metallic/marbleized epoxy, not garage chip.
- Radiant heat under tile boosts comfort and can lower HVAC use; modern mat systems make it simpler.
- Reality check: Pets, kids, and traffic are what wear floors out.
- Refinishing myth: Most homeowners rarely refinish once they move in. If you will, it usually happens during a future remodel.
- Sample early. Approve a stain or prefinished color up front and carry it to every other selection.
Mentioned in the Episode
- Engineered hardwood (multi-ply cores, glue-down with moisture-barrier adhesive)
- LVP/LVT as a basement budget play
- Porcelain tile with improved print variety and crisp edges
- Large-format porcelain panels to minimize grout lines
- Radiant heat mats (e.g., Schluter-type systems)
- Metallic/marbleized epoxy for basements and entertainment spaces
Building Brews & BBQ
Instagram: @buildingbrewsandbbq
YouTube: YouTube.com/@BuildingBrewsandBBQ
Hosts:
Vince Longo
longocustombuilders.com
Instagram: @longocustombuilders
Nathan Walters:
massarossa.com
Instagram: @massarossa
Produced by:
Michael Newman
michaelnewmanfilm.com
Instagram: @michaelnewmanfilm
