Flooring is a critical component of any interior space, playing a pivotal role in the aesthetics, functionality, and overall ambiance of a room. When it comes to sourcing and purchasing flooring materials, consumers have several options, two of which are large corporate owned Floor & Decor and small family owned flooring dealers like Floor City. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the nuances that distinguish these two choices, exploring various aspects such as product range, customer experience, pricing, and personalized service.
Product Range:
Floor & Decor, a well-known national chain, is recognized for its extensive product range. It typically offers a wide variety of flooring materials, including hardwood, laminate, tile, stone, carpet, and vinyl. Moreover, they often have a diverse selection within each category, with numerous colors, styles, and finishes available. This breadth of choice can be particularly appealing to customers seeking an extensive array of options under one roof. Floor & Decor's vast inventory allows customers to explore different materials and make side-by-side comparisons.
On the other hand, small flooring dealers tend to specialize in certain types of flooring materials or brands. Due to their limited size and resources, they may not carry the same breadth of products as a large chain like Floor & Decor. However, they often focus on specific niches and excel in offering high-quality, curated selections. Small dealers may have a more intimate knowledge of the specific materials they carry, which can be advantageous for customers seeking expert guidance on a particular type of flooring.
Customer Experience:
The customer experience at Floor & Decor is designed to be convenient and accessible. These stores are typically large, well-organized, and equipped with knowledgeable staff. Customers can browse products, ask questions, and even take home samples. Floor & Decor often invests in store aesthetics, creating an environment that can be visually appealing and inspiring for customers as they plan their flooring projects.
Small flooring dealers, on the other hand, offer a more personalized experience. They may have a smaller physical footprint but compensate with a focus on customer relationships. Smaller dealers often provide one-on-one consultations, offering tailored advice and recommendations based on a customer's specific needs and preferences. This personalized touch can be especially valuable when customers are looking for guidance on complex or unique flooring projects.
Pricing:
Pricing can vary between Floor & Decor and small flooring dealers. Floor & Decor often leverages its size and buying power to offer competitive prices on a wide range of products. They may also run promotions, bulk discounts, or clearance sales that make their products more affordable. This competitive pricing can be appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
One misconseption about price is that big box stores are cheaper. In fact, you often get more and pay about the same when you purchase from a local floor covering store. The reason is the products that the bigger stores provide are designed to be cost efficient and designed for the DIY remodeler.
So, just because you are buying vinyl plank or laminate for $2 per square foot, don't think that you are actually saving any money. The installation services offered through a 3rd party service will charge $4/SF for installation. Thus, making the the cost of $6/per square foot. Which is about what you would expect to pay at a smaller store, except the products you might get at a retailer like Floor City are of much higher quality. Do your research, or you might be disspointed with your floors.
Small flooring dealers may not always be able to match the pricing of larger chains due to differences in scale and overhead costs. However, they may offer value in other ways, such as providing more personalized service, expert installation, or access to unique and high-end products that are not readily available in larger stores. Customers looking for a unique or customized flooring solution may find the expertise and options offered by small dealers worth the potentially higher cost.
Installation Services:
Floor & Decor, Home Depot, and Lowe's often provide installation services or can recommend local contractors who are familiar with their products. This can simplify the process for customers who want a one-stop-shop experience. However, the quality of installation can vary, as contractors may not be direct employees of the store.
Small flooring dealers often have closer relationships with local installation professionals. They may offer more direct oversight of the installation process, ensuring a higher level of quality control. Customers who prioritize top-notch installation and want a trusted connection to installers may prefer working with small dealers.
After-Sales Support:
When it comes to after-sales support and warranties, Floor & Decor typically follows industry standards. They offer manufacturer warranties on their products, and customers can often return defective items or receive support through their customer service department. However, the level of personalized attention can vary.
Small flooring dealers may offer a more hands-on approach to after-sales support. They are often more invested in customer satisfaction and may go the extra mile to resolve issues promptly. Their smaller size allows for more direct communication with customers, potentially leading to a more responsive and tailored experience.
Local Impact:
Supporting small flooring dealers can have a positive impact on the local community. These businesses are often independently owned and operated, contributing to the local economy and fostering a sense of community. Customers who value this aspect may choose to shop locally and support small businesses.
Floor & Decor, as a national chain, may not have the same level of local community impact. However, they can provide consistent employment opportunities and contribute to the economy on a larger scale.
The choice between Floor & Decor and a small flooring dealer ultimately depends on a customer's individual priorities and preferences. Floor & Decor excels in offering a vast product range, competitive pricing, and a convenient shopping experience, making it a suitable choice for those seeking variety and affordability.
Local boutique flooring stores, on the other hand, prioritize personalized service, expertise, and potentially unique product offerings, making them an excellent choice for customers who value a more hands-on and tailored approach to their flooring needs. The decision ultimately hinges on the specific requirements and priorities of the customer, whether they prioritize breadth of choice, personal attention, or local support.
