Buying wood flooring is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home. The quality, installation, and warranty depend heavily on where you decide to make the purchase. Choosing the wrong flooring place could cost you thousands in future problems, while choosing the right and trursted flooring shop in Denver ensures a beautiful, long-lasting floor.
Here we analyze the best places to buy wood flooring and what you should expect from each:
1. Local Flooring Stores (Specialists)
Local flooring stores are usually the best place to buy flooring, especially hardwood.
- Pros:
- Expertise: They have knowledgeable staff who specialize solely in flooring. They can help you choose the right wood species (Oak, Maple, Walnut) for your area’s climate and your home’s needs.
- Quality and Selection: They offer a more curated selection of high-quality, branded flooring products you won’t find at bigger box stores.
- Full Service: They generally offer a complete package service, including measuring, sales, delivery, and professional installation with their own team (which simplifies the warranty process).
- Cons: The price per square foot may be slightly higher than at large retail stores.
2. Big Box Home Improvement Stores
Purchasing wood from a local flooring vendor is encouraged for many reasons, but big box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s can be convenient and budget-friendly.
- Pros:
- Convenience and Price: They have a large, immediately available inventory and often offer very low initial prices or discounts.
- Cons:
- Limited Expertise: Staff do not specialize in flooring and may not provide expert advice on wood stability or specific installation conditions (like moisture control).
- Subcontracted Installation: Installation is often subcontracted to third-party companies, which can complicate quality management or warranty issues.
- Product Quality: They often sell lower-quality product lines manufactured specifically for their stores.
3. Online-Exclusive Flooring Retailers
There are many online retailers who specialize solely in hardwood flooring and offer competitive pricing.
- Pros:
- Competitive Pricing: Their lower operating costs can mean significant savings, especially if you are buying large quantities.
- Easy Samples: They send samples directly to your home so you can view them in your lighting.
- Cons:
- No Installation Service: You must find and vet your own flooring installation contractor.
- Warranty Issues: If there is a material problem, you must deal with the warranty solely through the retailer, which can be difficult if they are not local.
- Product Inspection: It is up to you to inspect the product upon arrival for damage or inconsistencies, which can be complex with large shipments.
The Recommendation
For a high-value, long-term investment like hardwood flooring, nothing beats the advice, quality control, and full-service warranty offered by your local flooring specialist.
