This Flooring Business Aims To Help California Wildfire Rebuilds

This article was originally published in American Towns on March 12, 2025. El Monte resident Ben Kubo, 40, opened his business, Floor Coverings International of North San Gabriel Valley, CA in December serving the areas of Altadena, East Pasadena, North San Gabriel, Arcadia, Monrovia, Temple City, Duarte, Bradbury, North El Monte, and Irwindale.

“We are devastated for our neighbors and everyone who suffered loss and damage during these horrific wildfires,” said Ben, who has lived locally in the LA area since 2010 and wanted to build a future family business for his wife and two children in the booming home improvement industry. “Little did I know how quickly or desperately our services might be needed during 2025.”

In the next five years, Ben aims to build out his team to manage larger jobs, and by fall of 2025 he plans to establish a small team focused on community give-back. This team may offer low-cost or free services to elderly people or those facing emergencies, such as the recent fires, which aligns with his personal passion project for the duration of his tenure with Floor Coverings International.

Ben has a background in mortgage for 10 years and real estate for 13 years, during which he developed a strong network that has been beneficial in the launch of his new business.

“My past experience as a real estate broker heavily informs my current business,” said Ben. “I can help clients sort through what looks and styles might positively impact the value of their homes vs what may be a detriment. Also, in real estate, you typically do a whole lot of networking, and that has helped me in the launch of this new venture.”

With the turmoil in the real estate and mortgage markets, Ben suspected that he might not be able to help people as effectively as he did in previous markets. Finding his greatest joy in helping people solve problems, he decided to seek a new way to make a meaningful impact. Advances in laminate and luxury vinyl products, as well as engineered hardwoods, have impressed him with their ability to mimic traditional hardwoods while offering enhanced resilience.

Floor Coverings International offers a wide range of high-quality flooring options all in a beautiful mobile showroom. Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and laminate floors are particularly notable for their affordability and transformative potential. Additionally, advancements in carpet technology have resulted in stain-resistant options suitable for busy households with children and pets. Popular favorites include:

–       Sustainable materials-homeowners are turning to laminate flooring crafted from eco-friendly materials such as recycled wood fibers.

–       Authentic Wood Look: the demand for realistic-looking wood floors continues to soar.

–       Waterproof Performance: Given erratic weather conditions, waterproof laminate floors are hot!

–       Vinyl Flooring: As technology advances, vinyl flooring gets close to natural wood and stone looks easily cleaned with a damp mop.

–       Carpet: There are still die-hard carpet lovers because of the feeling and look of cozy and warm. Not so much shag. Many more flat pile and textures and patterned looks are available. ·

–       Engineered Hardwood Flooring: this is the best in luxury flooring offering real wood veneers with remarkably high quality and detail.

“This concept is so great to me because it eliminates something I always hated. Running to five separate places for samples, waiting in line at big box stores just to find a sales associate to help. Then hauling everything home just to find out none of it worked with my existing furniture, paint colors and accessories,” shared Ben. “And especially now with our mobile showroom, we hope to assist those in need more quickly as they rebuild. They’ve had enough stress.”

For info visit: https://floorcoveringsinternational.com/locations/us/ca/north-san-gabriel-valley/ or call 626-317-8505.