are you shy around hard surfaces?

[Mikey P]

The Protocol: Field Research

Technicians should regularly visit big-box retailers (Home Depot, Lowes) and dedicated flooring centers (Floor & Decor, Lumber Liquidators, local Mom & Pops). These are not just stores; they are free training centers.

Treat every home and business you visit from this day forward as your personal laboratory. Use every job as an opportunity to sharpen your identification skills. Look for clues and never be afraid to ask questions.

• Touch the surface: Does it feel like plastic? Is it cold like rock or warm like wood?
• Analyze the visuals: Look for repeat patterns (or the lack of them) and study the reflectivity under different light sources.
• Assess the condition: Pay attention to how the floor is wearing and how it responds to cleaning.
• Dig deeper: Lift registers and look under rugs for cross-sections.
• Ask the owner: "How do you like it?" "Would you buy it again?"

In due time, you won’t just be guessing—you’ll be an ID expert.



Who does this?