Flooring business begins serving Wahkiakum area

A little over a year ago, Puget Island resident Charley Schlappi was in a car accident that broke his arm, leaving him out of work for over six months. Being "put in a position where he needed to try to figure out a new avenue to explore," Schlappi went with the craft he had done for over 10 years in Portland and started Puget Island Tile & Flooring with his wife, Meranda.

"I decided to utilize my experience in flooring to start my own business and try to build something that I could leave a legacy behind for my kids to take over," said Schlappi. "Something that gives me a little more control over my own schedule and the ability to give back to the community and build new things and update things and improve things for people."

Specializing in marmoleum and other "green and eco friendly" products, Schlappi uses all-natural glue and adhesives, which, in his opinion, is "really great for people who have allergies." Describing the product as "super durable," Schlappi also offers a 25-year residential warranty.

Trying to "stay pretty local as much as he can," Schlappi still extends his services to nearby areas like Longview. Still, word of mouth in a small community like this is "huge" for the entrepreneur. "We just try to do the best job that we can for a fair price and treat people right and do what we say we're going to do," said Schlappi. "The number one thing that I like to try to stay on top of is communicating with clients and customers. We're not in control of everything. Stuff comes up, but people would rather hear about it as soon as you know than when it's too late and you've gotta change your plans. Communication is my top priority; to try to be transparent with people and let them know what's going on."

Aside from tile and flooring, Schlappi also offers services for Formica and linoleum countertops. "It's sort of the last thing you think of with flooring, but a lot of it does actually cross over because the adhesive is similar," said Schlappi.

For service, call 503-457-6789, email pitflooring24@gmail.com, or visit Puget Island Tile & Flooring on Facebook.