Why So Many Flooring Installers Are Retiring — And What That Means for Labor Costs (Especially in Evansville)

A Comprehensive 2025 Industry Analysis + Local Insight for Homeowners & Job Seekers

Introduction: A Quiet Crisis in the Flooring Industry

Across the United States — and especially here in Evansville, Indiana — the flooring industry is feeling the pressure of a major workforce shift. Veteran flooring installers, many with decades of hands-on experience, are retiring at a rapid pace. Meanwhile, far too few new workers are entering the trade to replace them.

This imbalance is already affecting homeowners, contractors, manufacturers, and flooring companies. It’s driving up labor prices, slowing down project timelines, and creating intense competition for skilled workers. But for those willing to learn the trade, the shortage also presents huge opportunities.

In this long-form pillar post, we’ll break down:

• Why flooring installers are retiring so quickly

• What the latest industry statistics really say

• How the labor shortage is impacting Evansville specifically

• Why labor prices are expected to rise even more

• How River City Flooring Pros is addressing the shortage through apprenticeships

• Why now is the perfect time to start a flooring installation career

• How local job seekers can get started

This is your complete guide to understanding the flooring installer shortage of 2025 — and how Evansville’s own River City Flooring Pros is stepping up to prepare the next generation.

Section 1: The Flooring Workforce Is Aging — Fast

The flooring industry is unique in that it relies heavily on long-time, highly skilled installers. Most flooring pros learned through hands-on experience, apprenticeship, or family trade.

But here’s the concern:

The average flooring installer in the U.S. is now 56–57 years old.

Industry leaders are warning that a retirement wave is already underway — and accelerating.

Many installers who began their careers in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s are leaving the workforce, taking decades of knowledge with them. The list of “master craftsmen” is shrinking every year.

The problem?

Not enough young installers are entering the trade to replace them.

And unlike some trades where training programs are widely available, flooring installation has fewer accessible pipelines.

That means:

• Apprenticeships are limited

• Training depends heavily on individual contractors

• Older installers retire faster than new installers can be trained

The result?
A widening skills gap — one that experts say could last 10–15 years unless major improvements are made.

Section 2: The Latest Industry Stats Reveal a Deepening Shortage

Here are the most relevant, trustworthy data points shaping the industry as of 2024–2025:

1. The U.S. flooring industry may be losing 4,000–6,000 skilled installers per year due to retirements.

Some estimates put the loss even higher in certain regions.

2. The U.S. will see roughly 8,400 flooring installer/tile setter job openings every year for the next decade.

Most openings are due to retirements — not growth.

3. Indiana and Evansville are major hotspots for labor shortages.

A statewide review of the construction sector found:

• Strong growth in construction

• Severe difficulty filling trade roles

• Labor shortages even during economic slowdowns

• Installers and finishers among the toughest positions to fill

4. Vanderburgh County’s unemployment rate is LOW

As of mid-2025, local unemployment is around 3.6% — a clear sign of a tight labor market.
In other words: skilled workers have plenty of job options.

5. Flooring installers are earning more — and wages are climbing.

Average flooring and finishing trades wages in Southern Indiana have been rising, in some areas hitting:

• $24–$32/hr for trained installers

• $40+/hr for specialized or premium flooring installers

And wages are expected to continue increasing as the labor shortage intensifies.

Section 3: Why Fewer People Are Entering the Trade

The installer shortage isn’t happening by accident — it’s the product of several long-term trends.

1. Trades Aren’t Being Promoted in Schools Anymore

For decades, high schools encouraged college pathways over trades. As a result…

• Shop classes disappeared

• Skilled trades lost visibility

• Students weren’t exposed to hands-on careers

This removed the “feeder system” that once supplied flooring companies with young talent.

2. Flooring Installation Isn’t Taught Enough in Technical Schools

Plenty of tech programs exist for electricians, HVAC, mechanics, and welding — but flooring? Very few.

3. The Job Requires Skill, Patience, and Precision

Unlike unskilled labor, flooring installation requires:

• Perfect measurements

• Knowledge of materials

• Subfloor preparation

• Humidity management

• Moisture testing

• Pattern layout

• Specialized tools

That takes time to learn — usually through apprenticeship.

4. Immigration Changes Have Reduced Labor Pools

A significant percentage of flooring installers in many states are foreign-born.
With immigration tightening in recent years, some regions have seen significant labor losses.

Section 4: How This Shortage Impacts Evansville Homeowners

1. Labor Costs Will Continue to Rise

As installers become harder to find, wages increase — and installation prices follow.

For example:

• A hardwood install that cost $4/sq ft five years ago may now run $6–$8/sq ft or more.

• LVP installation prices have risen 20–35% in some areas.

2. Longer Wait Times

High-demand seasons (spring and fall) can book out weeks or months in advance.

3. Risk of Low-Quality Installations

Some companies — desperate for labor — hire undertrained workers.

This leads to:

• LVP gaps

• Buckling hardwood

• Tile lippage

• Uneven transitions

• Warranties being voided

4. Increased Value of Skilled Local Installers

More homeowners are choosing companies with:

• Apprenticeship programs

• Documented training

• Long-standing experience

• Strong community presence

Why?
Because skilled installers are becoming rare — and quality matters more than ever.

Section 5: How River City Flooring Pros Is Preparing the Next Generation of Installers

This is where River City Flooring Pros stands out in the Evansville area.

Many companies talk about the labor shortage — but we’re doing something about it.

Meet Owner Timothy Kaufman — Evansville’s Flooring Mentor

For years, Timothy Kaufman, owner of River City Flooring Pros, has taken a leadership role in training the next generation of local installers.

Through hands-on apprenticeships, Timothy has:

• Trained young men and women in real projects

• Passed down decades of installation expertise

• Built a pipeline of highly skilled local flooring professionals

• Helped apprentices turn the trade into a long-term career

• Strengthened Evansville’s local skilled workforce

Timothy believes:

“A great installer isn’t born — they’re trained. If we want high-quality flooring in Evansville, we need to invest in people willing to learn the craft.”

Apprenticeships Produce Better Installers

River City Flooring Pros’ apprenticeship program focuses on:

• Subfloor prep & leveling

• Moisture testing

• Installing vinyl plank, tile, hardwood, laminate & carpet

• Layout and design

• Cutting, fitting & transitions

• Customer service

• Jobsite safety

Apprentices learn everything — not just “how to lay boards.”

Why This Matters for Evansville Residents

Because River City Flooring Pros trains its own workforce:

• Quality stays high

• Labor availability stays reliable

• Pricing stays fair

• Evansville gains skilled tradespeople instead of losing them

This is the future of flooring — and it’s happening here locally.

Section 6: Why Now Is the BEST Time to Start a Flooring Career in Evansville

If you're reading this because you're curious about flooring installation as a career, here’s the truth:

There has never been a better time.

Here’s why:

1. The industry desperately needs new installers

With thousands retiring, companies like River City Flooring Pros are actively looking for:

• Apprentices

• Entry-level helpers

• Trainees

2. Wages are rising

Skilled installers make excellent money — often more than college graduates with debt.

3. College is expensive — but trade training is FREE

Our apprenticeships cost you nothing.
Earn while you learn.

4. The work is steady and essential

There will always be demand for flooring installers, because:

• Homes need new flooring

• Businesses remodel

• Water damage requires repairs

• Products change

• Trends evolve

5. Evansville is a growth market

With new construction and steady remodeling demand, the need for installers isn’t going away.

Section 7: Want to Become a Flooring Installer? Join River City Flooring Pros.

If you're searching for:

• flooring installer jobs Evansville IN

• flooring apprenticeship Evansville Indiana

• skilled trade jobs Evansville

• flooring installation training Evansville

• construction trade jobs in Southern Indiana

…then you’re already in the right place.

River City Flooring Pros is building the next generation of flooring experts — and you can be part of it.

Who We Hire:

• Motivated workers

• People who enjoy hands-on work

• Individuals seeking career stability

• Anyone who wants a trade, not just a job

What You Get:

• Paid training

• Real job experience

• Expert mentorship

• A long-term career path

• Excellent earning potential

• A supportive, family-owned company

If you're ready to start a rewarding, respected trade career, River City Flooring Pros wants to hear from you.

Conclusion: A Shortage That Creates Opportunity

The flooring industry is at a crossroads.

Retirements are accelerating.
Labor shortages are growing.
Prices are rising.
Quality installers are harder to find than ever.

But instead of seeing this as a crisis, River City Flooring Pros in Evansville, Indiana, sees it as an opportunity — to train, to grow, and to build the future of flooring right here in our community.

Because when experienced leaders like Timothy Kaufman pass down their knowledge, the trade stays alive — and Evansville benefits for decades to come.

Interested in a career as a flooring installer?

Apply at River City Flooring Pros today.
Build a future. Learn a trade. Earn great pay.
No experience required — just a willingness to work and learn.

Why Installing Flooring Is Harder Than It Looks — And Why Some Home Projects Are Best Left to the Pros

By River City Flooring Pros — Trusted Flooring Installers in Evansville, Indiana

DIY home projects can be fun and rewarding, but flooring installation is one task that often seems easier than it truly is. Many Evansville homeowners start a flooring project full of confidence, only to face stress, unexpected costs, and disappointing results. The truth is simple: flooring installation requires skill, precision, and experience—and hiring professionals like River City Flooring Pros in Evansville, Indiana can save you time, money, and frustration.

Here’s why installing flooring is more challenging than most people realize, and why calling in the experts is usually the smartest move.

1. Subfloor Preparation Is More Complicated Than You Think

Most DIY flooring issues begin before the new floor is even installed.

A subfloor must be:

• Perfectly level

• Clean

• Dry

• Free of damage

• Strong enough to support the new material

If the subfloor isn’t properly prepared, you’ll end up with:

• Squeaks

• Gaps

• Peaking or buckling boards

• Uneven tile lines

• Flooring that wears out faster than it should

Our team at River City Flooring Pros in Evansville, IN inspects and prepares subfloors using professional tools and techniques. What looks flat to the untrained eye can be far from installation-ready.

2. Measurements Must Be Exact — Even a Tiny Mistake Can Cost You

Flooring installation involves more than just cutting planks or tile to fit a space. A single incorrect measurement can result in:

• Wasted materials

• Visible gaps

• Misaligned patterns

• Extra cost and time

Evansville homeowners are often surprised at how much detail goes into accurate layout planning. Professionals ensure precise cuts, proper staggering of planks, and tight seams that create a seamless look.

3. Specialized Tools Are Required (And Expensive)

A typical flooring project may require:

• A flooring saw

• Spacers

• Moisture meters

• Tile leveling systems

• Underlayment and vapor barriers

• Adhesives or mortars

• Specialty trim tools

Buying these tools for one project can cost more than simply hiring the best flooring installers in Evansville IN from the start. Professionals like River City Flooring Pros already have the right equipment—and know how to use it safely and effectively.

4. Flooring Materials Behave Differently

Different types of flooring require different installation methods:

Hardwood

Needs acclimation, precise nail patterns, and expansion gaps.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

Requires perfect alignment; one small mistake can throw off the entire layout.

Tile

Must be set with exact spacing, level from edge to edge, and grouted without smearing or haze.

Carpet

Needs stretching equipment and knowledge of seam placement.

DIY installers often discover too late that flooring isn’t as “universal” as it seems. The team at River City Flooring Pros handles all materials correctly the first time.

5. Mistakes Can Be Expensive to Fix

Replacing incorrectly installed flooring can cost twice as much as hiring professionals in the first place.

Common DIY problems we fix for Evansville customers include:

• LVP planks that won’t lock together

• Tile with uneven edges ("lippage")

• Hardwood that buckles from poor acclimation

• Carpet wrinkles from improper stretching

When you factor in wasted materials, hours of labor, and the frustration of starting over, hiring trusted flooring contractors becomes the cost-effective choice.

6. Professional Results Last Longer

A high-quality floor should last 10–30 years depending on the material. But that longevity only happens with proper installation. Skilled contractors like River City Flooring Pros in Evansville, Indiana ensure:

• Tight seams

• Smooth transitions

• Strong bonding

• Correct underlayment

• Warranty-protected installation

DIY installation may look fine at first… but problems often appear months later. Professional installation means long-term durability and peace of mind.

Why Some Home Projects Are Best Left to the Flooring Pros

While painting or swapping cabinet hardware might be a great weekend project, flooring is different. It’s structural, long-lasting, and visible every day. The slightest mistake can stand out — and once flooring is installed incorrectly, the only real fix is doing it all over again.

Hiring professionals ensures:

• Faster installation

• Higher-quality results

• Fewer headaches

• Warranty and protection

• Increased home value

And when you choose River City Flooring Pros, you’re choosing a local team committed to quality craftsmanship, honest pricing, and flooring results that transform your home.

Choose the Best Flooring Installers in Evansville, IN

At River City Flooring Pros, we know the ins and outs of every flooring type. Whether you're upgrading to luxury vinyl plank, hardwood, carpet, or tile, we’re the trusted name for professional flooring installation in Evansville, Indiana.

✔ Local and family-owned
✔ Highly trained installers
✔ Competitive pricing
✔ Beautiful, long-lasting results

If you're thinking about new flooring, don’t risk a stressful DIY disaster — talk to the pros.

Contact River City Flooring Pros today for a free estimate and expert guidance on your next project.

Top 5 Flooring Trends in Evansville Homes

By River City Flooring Pros — The Best Flooring Installers in Evansville, IN

Choosing the right flooring can completely transform the look and feel of your home. As Evansville homeowners continue updating kitchens, living spaces, and basements in 2025, several exciting flooring trends have taken center stage. At River City Flooring Pros, we install thousands of square feet each year, giving us a firsthand look at what local homeowners love most.

Here are the Top 5 Flooring Trends in Evansville, Indiana for 2025 — plus expert insights from the flooring installers Evansville trusts most.

1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) That Looks Like Real Hardwood

The #1 flooring trend in Evansville continues to be luxury vinyl plank — and for good reason.

Why Evansville Homeowners Love It:

• Waterproof, perfect for kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms

• Holds up to kids, pets, and heavy traffic

• Looks like real wood but costs less

• Warmer and softer underfoot than tile

• Works well with Southern Indiana’s humidity

Many customers choose LVP not just for its durability, but because styles in 2025 look almost identical to high-end hardwood. Colors like driftwood gray, warm oak, and natural hickory are especially popular in Evansville family homes.

As the best flooring installers in Evansville IN, we use professional-grade tools to ensure tight seams and perfect alignment — the keys to making vinyl flooring look authentic.

2. Wide-Plank Hardwood for a Classic Evansville Look

Hardwood floors have never gone out of style, but the trend in 2025 is wide planks (6–9 inches) and matte finishes.

Why This Trend Works in Evansville Homes:

• Makes rooms feel larger

• Reduces visible seams

• Matte finish hides dirt and footprints

• Works well with modern farmhouse, traditional, and transitional design styles

Evansville homeowners upgrading older homes on the east and west sides are especially choosing hardwood to boost resale value. If you want a timeless look that lasts decades, hardwood remains a top choice.

3. Waterproof Laminate for Budget-Friendly Remodels

Laminate has gotten a major upgrade in recent years. The new 2025 lines offer water resistance, scratch protection, and realistic textures that feel like natural wood.

Why It’s Trending Locally:

• Fantastic option for budget-conscious Evansville families

• More durable than older laminate

• Affordable alternative to hardwood or tile

• Easy to clean

• Perfect for rental homes, basements, and high-traffic spaces

Our Evansville customers love waterproof laminate because it delivers great style at a fraction of the price — without sacrificing performance.

4. Large-Format Tile for Bathrooms & Kitchens

Tile is still a top pick for kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms, but the trend in 2025 is bigger tile sizes and bold patterns.

Evansville’s Most Popular Styles:

• 12x24 ceramic or porcelain

• Marble-look tile

• Matte black or charcoal tiles

• Patterned geometric designs

• Textured stone finishes

Large-format tile makes rooms feel more open and modern. It’s also easier to clean due to fewer grout lines — a win for busy families.

River City Flooring Pros specializes in precision tile layout, which is crucial because even a small leveling issue can be noticeable with big tiles.

5. Cozy Carpet for Bedrooms & Basements

While hard flooring dominates most trends, carpet is making a comeback — especially in bedrooms, nurseries, and lower levels.

Trending Carpet Styles in Evansville:

• Plush neutral tones

• High-performance stain-resistant fibers

• Patterned or textured carpets

• Soft grays and warm beiges

• Waterproof carpet for basements

Carpet remains a favorite in Evansville for sound insulation, warmth, and comfort, especially in older homes with cooler concrete foundations.

Bonus Trend: Eco-Friendly Flooring

More homeowners are asking about sustainable options, including:

• Bamboo

• Cork

• Recycled-content carpet

• Low-VOC flooring adhesives

Eco-conscious choices continue growing as more Evansville residents prioritize healthy indoor air quality and environmentally friendly materials.

Which Flooring Trend is Best for Your Evansville Home?

Every home is different — and that’s why personalized guidance from professionals matters. At River City Flooring Pros, we help you compare styles, durability, and pricing so you get flooring that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Whether you want modern LVP, wide-plank hardwood, premium laminate, or high-end tile installation, our team of experts delivers the craftsmanship and service that makes us the best flooring installers in Evansville, IN.

Ready for New Floors? Get a Free Estimate Today.

Transform your home with Evansville’s top flooring company.

River City Flooring Pros
✔ Professional installation
✔ Locally trusted
✔ Competitive pricing
✔ Attention to detail
✔ Residential & commercial options

Send us a message or call today — let’s bring beautiful new flooring to your Evansville home.

make flooring last

Why Keeping a Constant Temperature Helps Your Flooring Last Longer

When it comes to protecting your flooring investment, most homeowners think about cleaning, refinishing, or using protective pads under furniture. But there’s another key factor that’s often overlooked — maintaining a consistent temperature in your home. At River City Flooring Pros, the best flooring installer in Evansville, IN, we’ve learned from over 30 years of experience that stable indoor conditions can dramatically extend the life and beauty of your floors.

How Temperature and Humidity Affect Flooring

All types of flooring — whether hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or engineered wood — expand and contract in response to changes in temperature and humidity.

• Hardwood flooring, for example, absorbs moisture from the air and expands in humid conditions, then shrinks when it’s dry.

• Laminate and vinyl floors can also warp or buckle if the temperature fluctuates too much.

Over time, this repeated movement can cause gaps, cracks, or uneven surfaces that not only affect appearance but also compromise the structural integrity of the floor.

The Benefits of a Consistent Indoor Climate

By keeping your home’s temperature and humidity levels stable year-round, you can:

1. Prevent warping and cupping – Floors stay flat and secure.

2. Reduce cracking and splitting – Especially important for natural wood floors.

3. Preserve adhesive bonds – Glued or floating floors maintain their structure.

4. Maintain warranty coverage – Many manufacturers require stable conditions to uphold warranties.

Ideal Conditions for Long-Lasting Floors

Experts, including the team at River City Flooring Pros, recommend maintaining:

• Temperature: Between 65°F and 75°F

• Humidity: Between 35% and 55%

Using a programmable thermostat and a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier can help keep these conditions consistent, especially during seasonal changes.

Trust the Local Experts

At River City Flooring Pros, we’ve been helping homeowners in the Evansville area protect their flooring for more than 30 years. Our experienced installers understand how local weather patterns affect different flooring materials — and we’ll make sure your floors are installed with precision and care.

If you’re searching for the best flooring installer in Evansville, IN, look no further than River City Flooring Pros. Whether you’re updating one room or your entire home, our expertise ensures your floors look great and last for decades.

The Timeless Beauty of Ceramic Tile: A Historical Journey with River City Flooring Pros

Ceramic tile has been a hallmark of architectural design for thousands of years, blending durability, versatility, and stunning aesthetics. From ancient palaces to modern homes in Evansville, Indiana, its enduring popularity makes it a top choice for homeowners and designers alike. At River City Flooring Pros, Evansville’s best tile setters, we bring over 30 years of experience as a premier flooring contractor to every project, crafting the best tile showers, backsplashes, and flooring solutions that elevate spaces. Let’s explore why ceramic tile remains a favorite and how we can transform your home with expert installations.

Ancient Beginnings: The Roots of Ceramic Tile

The history of ceramic tile dates back to around 4000 BC in ancient Egypt, where it was used to create decorative surfaces in temples and homes. [3] Civilizations like the Egyptians, Assyrians, and Babylonians adorned their structures with glazed tiles, showcasing intricate patterns that told stories of their culture. [2] By 3000 BC, the Greeks used ceramic tiles as symbols of status, incorporating designs inspired by mythology. [8] These early tiles laid the foundation for the artistry we bring to modern tile showers and backsplashes in Evansville, Indiana.

The Romans took tile-making to new heights with their iconic mosaics, decorating floors and walls in villas and public baths. [1] Their durable, vibrant designs are still admired today, inspiring the custom ceramic tile installations we create at River City Flooring Pros.

Why Independent Flooring Subcontractors Are a Better Choice Than Hourly Store Installers

Discover the River City Flooring Pros Difference in Evansville, IN

When you're investing in new flooring—whether it's hardwood, LVT, carpet, or tile—you want it done right the first time. But choosing the right installer can be just as important as selecting the right product. Many homeowners default to big-box stores for convenience, but here’s the truth: the best flooring installations don't usually come from hourly store installers.

Instead, independent flooring subcontractors—like the trusted team at River City Flooring Pros in Evansville, IN—often deliver higher-quality work, better service, and more value for your money.

Let’s explore why choosing independent installers is the smarter move and why so many homeowners are searching for the best flooring installers in Evansville IN outside of the big box store system.

1. ✅ Higher Quality Workmanship

Independent flooring subcontractors rely on their reputation and referrals to stay in business. That means they are committed to quality on every job. Whether you're installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP), tile, or carpet, you're more likely to get precision, attention to detail, and craftsmanship from an independent crew.

Hourly store installers, on the other hand, are often paid a flat rate per job or hourly with tight deadlines—and quality may suffer as a result.

River City Flooring Pros is known for delivering consistent, top-tier flooring installation services in Evansville IN—with real attention to subfloor prep, pattern layout, and long-term durability.

2. 🛠️ More Experience and Specialization

Many independent installers have decades of hands-on experience, often passed down through family trades or gained through specialized training. They’ve seen it all—from uneven concrete subfloors to intricate patterned carpet installs.

Big box stores may send out generalists or even newly hired installers who haven’t specialized in your flooring type. You don't want someone learning on the job in your home.

Looking for carpet layers in Evansville IN who actually specialize in stretch-in and glue-down installations? You’ll find that level of experience with independent subcontractors, not hourly store crews.

3. 💬 Direct Communication = Fewer Mistakes

When you hire an independent contractor like River City Flooring Pros, you speak directly with the people doing the work. There’s no middleman. That means your vision, concerns, and preferences are heard—and applied.

Store installers are often booked through a third-party scheduler, and communication gaps are common. The result? Missed details, delays, or even wrong materials installed.

Want it done right the first time? Work directly with the best flooring installers in Evansville IN—not through a faceless corporate call center.

4. 💰 Better Value for Your Budget

While store installers might seem cheaper upfront, you often pay more in the long run—especially if the install isn’t done correctly and needs to be redone. Independent subcontractors often offer competitive pricing without the overhead of big-box margins or franchise fees.

Plus, you're not paying for a "middleman" markup. You’re paying directly for the service of a skilled tradesperson or crew—like those at River City Flooring Pros Evansville IN.

5. 🏠 They Treat Your Home Like Their Own

When you hire a local, independent installer, you're usually getting a small business owner or crew with a stake in the community. They know that every job is a reflection of their name and reputation.

Whether it’s LVT, laminate, carpet, or tile, your floor will be installed with care, respect, and accountability. Independent flooring installers in Evansville IN take pride in their work—because your satisfaction is what earns them the next job.

6. 🌟 More Flexible Scheduling and Personalized Service

Independent contractors are often more flexible with timelines and can work around your schedule. They also offer more customization options, such as unique patterns, transitions, or specialty installations that chain stores simply don't offer.

Need help deciding between glue-down LVT and floating plank systems? River City Flooring Pros in Evansville IN will take the time to walk you through the pros and cons based on your space and lifestyle.

7. 🏆 Proven Reputation in Evansville, IN

Independent flooring pros survive on local word of mouth, repeat business, and online reviews. Do your research, and you’ll see why more people are turning to River City Flooring Pros when searching for:

• Best flooring installers in Evansville IN

• Carpet layers in Evansville IN

• Independent vinyl plank flooring installers near me

• Tile and hardwood floor installation Evansville

Want peace of mind? Choose the pros your neighbors trust.

✅ Final Thoughts: Choose Independent. Choose Local. Choose Quality.

Don’t leave your flooring project to chance. When it comes to installing something that you’ll walk on every day for the next 10–20 years, quality matters.

Instead of rolling the dice with an hourly store installer, go with the proven team of independent flooring subcontractors at River City Flooring Pros in Evansville IN.

You’ll get:

• Superior craftsmanship

• Honest pricing

• Direct communication

• Flexible service

• And a floor you’ll love every time you walk in the door

📞 Call River City Flooring Pros Today for a Free Estimate
Proudly serving Evansville, IN and surrounding areas
📍 930-214-1557]

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🏆 10 Reasons Why LVT Is Better Than Laminate Flooring IN EVANSVILLE, IN.

🏆 10 Reasons Why LVT Is Better Than Laminate Flooring

(Luxury Vinyl Tile vs. Laminate Flooring: The In-Depth Showdown)

1. 100% Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

LVT is made from layers of PVC (vinyl), which makes it completely impervious to water. That means no swelling, no buckling, and no damage—even if it's submerged temporarily.
Laminate, on the other hand, has a fiberboard core that absorbs moisture. Even “water-resistant” laminate can warp or delaminate with enough exposure, making it risky for bathrooms, kitchens, or basements.

✅ Ideal for: Bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, basements
❌ Laminate risk: Damaged by spills, pet accidents, and steam mops

2. Superior Durability

LVT is designed to withstand heavy traffic, scratches, and dents. It has a wear layer (often 12–20 mils thick or more in commercial-grade LVT) that resists scuffs, stains, and impact.
Laminate is fairly durable but can be scratched more easily, especially by pet claws or dragged furniture. It also chips more easily when damaged.

✅ LVT wear layer: Thicker, tougher
❌ Laminate: Can show wear faster in active homes

3. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

LVT is low-maintenance. You can wet mop it, use mild cleaners, and not worry about ruining the floor.
Laminate requires more caution: too much moisture when cleaning can lead to swelling. Manufacturers often recommend using dry mops or slightly damp cloths only.

✅ LVT: Wet mop-friendly
❌ Laminate: Avoid water or steam mops

4. Better for Uneven or Imperfect Subfloors

LVT is more flexible and forgiving when installed over subfloors with minor imperfections. Some LVTs even have built-in underlayment, reducing prep work.
Laminate is rigid and brittle, and if the subfloor isn’t perfectly level, it can result in squeaking, gaps, or joint failure.

✅ LVT: Tolerant of subfloor imperfections
❌ Laminate: Requires perfectly level subfloor

5. Quieter and Softer Underfoot

Modern LVT often includes an acoustic backing or can be paired with underlayment to absorb sound and provide a soft, cushioned feel.
Laminate tends to be louder and can sound hollow or clicky when walked on, especially in rooms with minimal furniture.

✅ LVT: More comfort, less echo
❌ Laminate: Harder and noisier

6. Warmer and Compatible with Radiant Heating

LVT retains heat better than you might expect, especially with insulating underlayments or cork backing. It also works well with radiant heat systems, as long as installation guidelines are followed.
Some laminate floors are radiant-heat-compatible, but they require strict installation rules and may not perform as well in temperature fluctuation.

✅ LVT: Great for cozy, warm floors
❌ Laminate: Less consistent temperature performance

7. Hyper-Realistic Design and Texture

LVT design has come a long way. Advanced printing technology and embossing techniques create wood, stone, or ceramic looks that are incredibly realistic—often including registered embossing that aligns texture with grain patterns.
Laminate also mimics wood well, but its printed layer can feel more artificial underfoot and doesn't offer the same textural realism.

✅ LVT: Textured, realistic visuals
❌ Laminate: Looks good, feels less authentic

8. Easier Installation (Especially for DIYers)

LVT comes in click-lock, glue-down, or loose lay formats, offering flexibility for installation. Click-lock LVT is especially DIY-friendly and can be installed over existing floors.
Laminate requires very specific underlayments and expansion gaps, and is less forgiving with mistakes during install.

✅ LVT: More installation options
❌ Laminate: Tighter tolerances, harder fixes if messed up

9. Better for Commercial and High-Traffic Use

Because of its durability, waterproofing, and ease of maintenance, LVT is often used in commercial spaces like medical offices, restaurants, and retail stores.
Laminate doesn’t hold up as well under daily abuse, especially in environments with rolling carts, wet shoes, or dragging chairs.

✅ LVT: Trusted in heavy-use environments
❌ Laminate: Not ideal for commercial settings

10. Longer Lifespan in Moisture-Prone or Active Areas

LVT can last 15–25 years or more, especially when properly installed and maintained. Its resilience to water, scratches, and stains keeps it looking newer longer.
Laminate's lifespan is shorter in areas with moisture, pets, or frequent cleaning due to its vulnerability to swelling and surface damage.

✅ LVT: Long-lasting, reliable
❌ Laminate: May need replacement sooner in busy households

🧼 Bonus: Health and Indoor Air Quality

Most modern LVT products are low-VOC and FloorScore® certified, making them safe for indoor air quality.
Laminate can off-gas more depending on the adhesives and resins used in its manufacturing.

🧾 Final Verdict:

If you're looking for flooring that's:

• Waterproof

• Durable

• Stylish

• Low-maintenance

• Great for DIY and high-traffic spaces

LVT is the clear winner in most situations, especially for households with pets, kids, or moisture concerns.

How Installing Flooring Can Actually Keep You Healthy and Fit

Sure! Here's a blog post that puts a fun and health-focused spin on installing flooring:

Title: How Installing Flooring Can Actually Keep You Healthy and Fit

Subtitle: Forget the Gym—Your Next Renovation Might Be the Workout You Didn’t Know You Needed

When most people think about home improvement, they picture dust, stress, and sore muscles. But what if we told you that installing flooring isn’t just about upgrading your home—it’s also a sneaky way to improve your health and fitness?

Surprised? Let’s dive into why flooring installation might be your next wellness activity.

1. It’s a Full-Body Workout (Seriously)

Whether you’re laying hardwood, vinyl planks, or tile, installing flooring requires lifting, squatting, stretching, and even crawling. That’s a lot of muscle engagement! Here’s how it breaks down:

• Legs and Glutes: Constant squatting and kneeling work your thighs and glutes—think of it as functional strength training.

• Core Activation: Balancing, measuring, and cutting all activate your core muscles for stability.

• Upper Body Strength: Carrying heavy boxes of flooring and using tools like mallets, trowels, or saws build shoulder and arm strength.

A few hours of flooring can burn anywhere between 250–400 calories per hour, depending on your intensity and body weight.

2. Improved Flexibility and Mobility

It’s not just strength—reaching under cabinets, stretching to corners, or maneuvering in tight spaces forces your body to move in ways it may not usually during a 9-to-5 desk job. This increases joint mobility and helps keep your body limber.

3. Mental Fitness and Stress Relief

Installing flooring is like a real-life puzzle. You’re constantly measuring, problem-solving, and adapting to surprises (like uneven subfloors or oddly-shaped rooms). It requires focus and patience, which can actually be incredibly meditative.

In fact, the satisfaction of a job well done can release a nice dose of dopamine—the feel-good brain chemical linked to motivation and mood.

4. It Gets You Off the Couch

Let’s be honest: on weekends, it’s easy to slip into sedentary habits—TV marathons, scrolling your phone, or napping more than needed. But a flooring project gets you moving with a clear purpose.

You’re not just exercising—you’re accomplishing something that improves your home and adds long-term value.

5. You Learn New Skills (Which Is Good for the Brain)

Learning how to use tools, follow layouts, or mix adhesives stimulates brain activity and enhances cognitive function. It’s like a workout for your brain and body combined.

Studies show that learning hands-on skills can even help reduce the risk of cognitive decline later in life.

Bonus: Better Indoor Air Quality = Better Health

If you're replacing old carpets or outdated floors, you're likely removing built-up allergens, dust mites, and VOCs. This can improve air quality, reduce respiratory irritation, and make your space healthier overall—especially for people with asthma or allergies.

And when you install materials like cork, bamboo, or low-VOC vinyl, you’re making an even bigger health-conscious choice.

Final Thoughts

Flooring installation isn’t just for contractors and DIY enthusiasts—it’s a surprisingly effective way to stay active, challenge your mind, and feel the satisfaction of transforming your space.

So next time you’re thinking about hitting the gym, maybe pick up a trowel instead. Who knew your dream floors could come with a side of fitness?

Have you ever installed your own flooring? Share your experience below—how sore were you the next day? 😅

Would you like this post adapted for a social media caption or newsletter as well?