Replacing Condo Floor in Miami, FL Highrise

[Daniel K.]

Hello everyone,

I'm looking to replace about 500-600sf glued-down engineered hardwood floor in a downtown Miami-area condo. Besides having a hard time finding a person to do such a small job when a permit is required, i'm having a hard time deciding what material to go with.

Since the majority of the cost is labor (i'm being quoted around $5/sf install without material), i'm inclined to go with a slightly more expensive material if there's a benefit to it.

Any suggestions as to what I should go with?

I would like it to be durable, low-maintenance and neutral so it is easy to rent. Also, I want something that is currently popular and won't go out of style quickly so that I don't have to redo it anytime soon.

I am currently looking at high-gloss porcelain tile which many miami condos have these days.

Any suggestions?

Thank you,

Daniel

[Andy Luick]

I've never seen anything like the Miami permitting requirement - just FYI here is what you'd need a permit for there:

When is a permit required?Section 104.1.1 of Florida Building Code: Permits
Helpful Building Permit Information for Condominium AssociationsA permit ensures the consumer that the work is being done properly and with the appropriate materials. A licensed contractor is required to obtain permits in the following situations:

• General maintenance and repairs exceeding $500 in labor and materials for projects modifying a building's existing structure in any way (including tile, wood flooring and marble);
• Any electrical work, including installation of ceiling fans;
• Replacement of an air conditioner unit;
• Installation of a water heater;
• Changing a toilet or a sink fixture.
• Please contact the Building Division at 305-466-8937 if you should have any questions as to whether a permit is required.