By Kelli Carmack
Rob Howard got his start in the flooring business 35 years ago as a teenager, when he was working at a grocery store and his manager asked if he could finish the store’s floors when a contractor failed to show.
Rob agreed to help, discovered that he enjoyed the work, and has been in the flooring business ever since.
Over the years, Rob has expanded his skills to include painting, tile work and other skills needed for home improvements, and today works in both remodeling/restorations and new construction.
In 2014, Rob added new partners — his son, Jarred Howard, and longtime colleague, David Rodriguez. The men named their new business Infinite Home Designs, which they abbreviated to Infinite HD.
Infinite HD has grown into a full-service home repair and installation company, with a focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling, as well as flooring.
A recent trend that Rob has observed is that many people are calling about back porch installations.
“It makes sense. People who are off for the summer, or working from home, want a relaxing spot to unwind. Plus, with it being summertime with mosquitoes and gnats running around crazy, having a back porch makes your summer experience much more enjoyable,” said Rob.
Home repair shows, such as “Fixer Upper,” often inspire people to do their own home repairs, but David Rodriguez stresses the importance of hiring a licensed professional for most home repair needs.
“We have a saying in the business — ‘Cheap labor isn’t skilled, and skilled labor isn’t cheap,’” said David. “It truly matters who you hire.”
Infinite HD has seen its share of cases where people try to do their own home repairs, or hire unqualified people, and end up having Infinite HD finish the job.
“Those clients end up spending more money, time and stress by trying to do it on their own,” said David.
Infinite HD recently moved its office to Odessa to keep up with the company’s growth. The location is convenient to its customer base in Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Rob is excited to watch his company continue to grow and expand.
Infinite HD continues to operate as a family business, which Rob is reminded of every time he steps into the office, because his grandchildren helped install its floor. Having both his son, Jarred, and daughter, Janann, work for him is something Rob deeply treasures – a sentiment his son, Jarred, shares.
“It’s always nice to make those memories with my dad,” said Jarred.
For more information, or to book a free estimate with Infinite HD, call (813) 309-5211.
Published 6/24/20
