Compare the highest-rated flooring installers professionals in Block Island, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, full-service flooring contractor based in Westerly, RI, known for professional project management and high-quality craftsmanship across all major flooring types. They explicitly list Block Island in their service area and are experienced with the logistics of island projects.
Serving Southern RI and Southeastern CT, All Pro Flooring has a strong reputation for reliability and detailed subfloor preparation, which is critical in older island homes. They offer a wide range of products and expert installation.
A well-established company located in Wakefield, RI, they specialize in both residential and commercial projects. They are praised for their customer service and ability to handle complex installations and historic home restorations, making them a good fit for Block Island's unique properties.
The flooring installer market for Block Island is a specialized niche characterized by high-quality service providers who operate from the mainland. Due to the logistics of transporting materials and crews via ferry, projects typically incur a significant premium. The "travel fee" or "island surcharge" is standard and can add 15-30% to the total project cost. **Average Quality:** The contractors willing to take on Block Island projects are typically established, high-end specialists. There is little to no presence of low-cost, high-volume operators due to the logistical barriers. The average quality of service is therefore very high. **Competition Level:** While there is competition among the top-tier mainland contractors for island projects, the number of providers actively seeking this work is limited. This is not a saturated market, and availability, especially during the peak summer season, must be booked well in advance. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is premium. Homeowners should expect to pay above the state average. For example, professional hardwood floor installation can range from $12-$20+ per square foot, and LVP installation from $7-$12+ per square foot, before accounting for the island logistics surcharge. The cost is reflective of the expertise required and the operational challenges of working on an island.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Block Island regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about flooring installers services in Block Island, Rhode Island.
The salty, humid air and frequent moisture require specific moisture-resistant materials and installation techniques, which can increase material costs. Furthermore, all materials and many contractors must come via ferry, leading to potential delays and higher transportation fees, especially during the busy summer tourist season. Scheduling projects for the spring or fall shoulder seasons can sometimes mitigate these delays and costs.
For durability against sand, salt, and moisture, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile are top choices as they are highly water-resistant and easy to clean. Engineered hardwood is a better option than solid hardwood, which can warp in the humidity. Always avoid materials that are prone to moisture damage, like certain laminates or carpet in ground-level spaces, due to the island's dampness and potential for nor'easters.
For structural changes or installations in historic district homes, you may need approval from the Block Island Historical District Commission. Statewide, Rhode Island requires contractors to be registered with the Contractors' Registration Board (CRB). Always verify your installer's CRB number and ensure they pull any necessary local building permits, especially for subfloor work or in new constructions.
Prioritize contractors with verifiable, long-standing local references and proven experience with island-specific challenges. Check their CRB registration and insurance. Be prepared that you may need to hire a mainland Rhode Island contractor who is willing to manage the ferry logistics; in this case, clear communication about scheduling, material delivery, and potential weather-related postponements is critical.
A project that might take 1-2 weeks on the mainland can easily extend to 3-5 weeks on Block Island due to ferry schedules, weather delays, and material availability. The summer season (June-August) is the most difficult due to ferry congestion, tourist rentals, and higher contractor demand. Planning for installation in the late spring or early fall is highly recommended for a smoother, more predictable process.