Business Details
9 Years
experience
Your Trusted Hardwood Flooring Experts in Downers Grove
A Step Ahead Flooring has established itself as a leader in hardwood flooring solutions across Chicagoland. With over 18 years of hands-on experience in the industry, our team combines artistic vision with technical expertise to deliver custom flooring solutions tailored to each client's unique preferences. We specialize in both installation and refinishing processes, utilizing advanced equipment like LAGLER TRIO sanders and high-powered dust containment systems to ensure precision and cleanliness throughout every project phase. Our commitment to quality extends to material selection, offering diverse options from exotic wood species to hand-distressed finishes, complemented by premium finishing systems like LOBA waterborne and Rubio Mono Coat.As NWFA-certified professionals, we maintain rigorous standards of craftsmanship while prioritizing client education and satisfaction through personalized consultations and maintenance programs. Our dedication to treating every property with the same care we'd expect ourselves has earned us a reputation for reliability and excellence throughout the region.
Services
Hardwood Installation
Floor Refinishing
Stair Renovation
Trim Work
Maintenance Programs
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- 18 years of practical experience in hardwood flooring applications
- NWFA-certified professionals with advanced sanding and finishing expertise
- Custom in-house stain color consultations for personalized results
- LAGLER TRIO sanders and CENO dust containment systems for precision work
- Comprehensive maintenance programs with semi-annual/annual service options
Associations and certifications
- National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA)
What people say
Top notch service
No complaints
Very hands on
Dust containment
Artistic vision
Services
Hardwood Installation
We specialize in premium hardwood flooring installation using solid and engineered materials. Our process includes precise subfloor preparation, custom pattern layout, and expert installation of prefinished or unfinished flooring options. With access to exotic and domestic wood species, we create durable, visually striking floors that enhance property value while maintaining structural integrity through proper acclimation and moisture control techniques.
Custom Refinishing
Our refinishing services restore worn floors using advanced LAGLER sanding equipment and orbital finishing systems. We employ multi-step sanding processes to achieve ultra-smooth surfaces, followed by custom stain applications and protective finish coatings. By offering various finish options including waterborne systems and hard wax oils, we ensure renewed floors maintain aesthetic appeal while resisting daily wear in both residential and commercial environments.
Stair Renovation
We provide comprehensive stair system upgrades including tread and riser replacements, refinishing, and custom installations. Our solutions address both structural integrity and aesthetic consistency with existing flooring. Using solid wood components and precision installation techniques, we transform staircases into durable, visually cohesive elements that complement overall interior design schemes while meeting safety standards.
Trim Work
Our trim services include baseboard, shoe molding, and cove molding installation to complete flooring projects. We offer both stained and primed options up to 5-1/4" heights, ensuring seamless transitions between floors and walls. The trim work protects edges while enhancing room aesthetics through custom profiles and finishes that match or complement installed flooring systems.
Maintenance Programs
We implement preventive maintenance solutions to extend flooring lifespan through screen-and-recoat processes and wax renewal services. Our semi-annual and annual programs address surface wear before it becomes structural damage, using specialized products that maintain finish integrity without requiring full refinishing. These cost-effective plans help commercial and residential clients preserve their flooring investments over time.
People
Chris Cosimo
Owner & Lead Craftsman
With 18 years of NWFA-certified experience, Chris combines artistic vision with technical expertise in hardwood flooring. As founder, he oversees all projects ensuring quality craftsmanship and client satisfaction. His hands-on approach and commitment to industry standards have established the company's reputation for excellence in Chicagoland.
Questions
What hardwood flooring options do you offer?
We provide solid hardwood, engineered click-lock systems, wide plank, and character-grade flooring in domestic and exotic species with custom staining options.
Do you service both residential and commercial properties?
Yes, we handle projects for custom homes, multi-family units, and commercial spaces throughout Chicagoland.
What makes your refinishing process different?
We use LAGLER TRIO orbital sanders for ultra-smooth finishes and advanced dust containment systems to protect your property.
Are maintenance programs available?
Yes, we offer semi-annual and annual maintenance with screen-and-recoat services to preserve your floors' appearance.
What areas do you serve?
We operate throughout Chicagoland including DuPage, Cook, and surrounding counties with projects in Downers Grove, Chicago, and Western Springs.
