When shopping for new flooring, big box stores can seem like an appealing option. With their flashy promotions, seemingly unbeatable prices, and convenient locations, they attract homeowners looking for a deal and for convenience. But what many buyers don’t realize is that the low-price tag often comes with hidden costs—both financial and quality. Here’s what you should know when you are deciding who to work with on your flooring project.
1. Inferior Product Quality
Big box stores often sell lower-grade flooring materials that may look similar to high-quality options but lack durability and longevity. These materials may have:
- Thinner wear layers on vinyl and laminate.
- Lower-quality tile options that aren’t consistent in sizing and thickness.
- Less durable fibers in carpeting, leading to faster wear and tear. This means your flooring may need to be replaced much sooner than expected, adding to long-term costs.
- Mixing and matching of dye lot’s which might mean while your flooring is all the same color, it may not match exactly from box to box.
At Graham’s Flooring and Design, we only show and sell products that we can stand behind and our expert designers will educate customers on what flooring will work best for their lifestyle and budget.
2. Low-Cost Installation Often Means Low-Quality Work
Big box retailers often outsource their installation services to third-party contractors who may prioritize speed over precision or who haven’t been vetted for their experience with installation. Common issues with budget installations include:
- Gaps, uneven seams, or improper sealing.
- Poor subfloor preparation, leading to warping or squeaking.
- Lack of post-installation support or warranty coverage. Cutting corners on installation can lead to costly repairs and a shorter lifespan for your flooring.
While we at Graham’s Flooring and Design do use sub-contractors, we work with a limited number of installers that we know extremely well and who are exceptionally skilled. In addition, we offer a lifetime warranty on installation.*
3. Hidden Fees Add Up Quickly
The advertised price may seem like a bargain, but the final bill often tells a different story. Additional costs can include:
- Charges for removing and disposing of old flooring.
- Additional fees for furniture moving or special subfloor preparation.
- Upcharges on necessary underlayment, transition strips, and adhesives. By the time everything is accounted for, the cost may be comparable—or even higher—than investing in high-quality flooring from a dedicated flooring provider.
At Graham’s Flooring and Design, we offer detailed, full-transparency quotes to customers with everything that will be done with installation in individual line items. You can always trust the quotes you get from us.
4. Limited Selection and Lack of Expertise
Big box stores stock what sells quickly rather than what best fits your needs. This means:
- Limited style and color choices.
- Lack of knowledgeable staff to help you find the best flooring for your space.
- Fewer customization options for unique spaces or specific durability needs.
At Graham’s Flooring and Design, we have expert designers with a combined 40 years’ experience to guide you through the process of selecting the right floors for all your needs. And we make it fun, convenient and stress-free.
5. Shorter Warranties and Poor Customer Support
Many big box retailers offer minimal warranties, and because installers are not vetted, it can be difficult to get support if something goes wrong. Issues to watch out for include:
- Manufacturer warranties that don’t cover installation defects.
- Difficulty getting in touch with installers for repairs.
- Limited options for addressing product defects or dissatisfaction. Dedicated flooring providers typically offer better warranties, skilled installers, and ongoing customer support.
- Often very long wait times for scheduling installation.
At Graham’s Flooring and Design, we offer a lifetime guarantee* on installation, skilled installers, and ongoing customer support. We always answer the phone and we often get flooring installed with 2 weeks.
Final Thoughts
While big box stores may seem like the cheapest and most convenient option upfront, the hidden costs of low-quality materials, subpar installation, and unexpected fees can make them a more expensive choice in the long run. Investing in high-quality flooring from a trusted provider ensures better durability, expert installation, and long-term satisfaction.
If you’re looking for flooring that adds real value to your home without the hidden pitfalls, contact Graham’s Flooring & Design for expert guidance and premium-quality options tailored to your needs!
*Our lifetime installation warranty covers issues with the install itself. It does not cover issues caused by environmental factors.
