Buying Flooring Online
You found your perfect flooring online but are hesitant to complete your purchase. It’s a big purchase to make online without having seen it in person, we totally get it. Here are a few tips from our team at Harper Floors to make sure you feel confident in your online flooring purchase.
There are many flooring options, but it is important to know what flooring is best suited for you and your home. It’s not just the flooring type that you need to be clear on, once you decide the type of floor you want, you will need to narrow down the color, finish and size.
Order Samples
Pictures look great online, but depending on your computer or phone settings the colors that you see online may vary from the actual product. It is highly recommended to order samples of the product so you can view and test the products in your home. Put the sample through the same conditions your floors will go through on a daily basis. For instance, if you're installing in your kitchen, drop food or spill water on it to see how it reacts. Drop common household items to test durability.
"...order samples of the product so you can view and test the products in your home."
Compare with a Local Retail Store
Comparing samples and quotations you received online to those from local retail stores can be very informative. Between look and product performance, to the actual cost of the product and shipping fees, take some time to review all your options. Buying online allows retailers like us to pass on savings in regards to overhead costs, additional retail markups, and shipping fees.
"Buying online allows retailers like us to pass on savings in regards to overhead costs, additional retail markups, and shipping fees."
Plan for Accessories
Not all online retailers carry matched moldings and if they do, they may not be an exact match. If you're looking to transition between your hardwood flooring a carpet or tile, or require stair nosing to complete your staircase, it is recommended to check availability of the moldings you'll need before committing to a product.
If the retailer does not offer matched moldings, you have the option of purchasing moldings from other retailers, however it will require a bit of additional effort to check compatibility of the molding and your flooring, in addition to color matching.
Understand the Return Policy
Be sure to review and understand the retailer's return policy before making your online purchase. Flooring is a product that requires truckload freight services for shipping and handling. Most companies will accept returns of their flooring if it is in its original packaging and in a re-sellable condition. Be aware of what types of returns are accepted and any related fees that may apply.
Anticipate Timing
There are times when our shipping carriers hit unexpected delays with your flooring delivery. Be sure to have your floors in your home well before your expected installation to give enough time for your flooring to acclimate and more importantly, to avoid unnecessary labor costs before your material actually arrives.
"...avoid unnecessary labor costs before your material actually arrives."
We hope these few tips will make you feel more confident in your online purchase. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to one of our representatives to help answer any questions or concerns you may have about your online purchase.
