Many people want to know why they should shop at a local retailer versus a big box store, where the price seems to be less. The truth is that the price may seem less, but there is a larger price to pay when the product is inferior, workmanship is sourced out and customer service is lacking.
Big box stores often sell inferior products that may contain defects, such as color inconsistencies and sizing defects. Many times you will find boxes with defective pieces, which not only slows down installation time but also adds cost to the initial purchase price, due to the need to add more material. If you want something that will give you lasting performance, it makes sense to consider a higher-quality option. The old saying, “You get what you pay for,” is a saying that certainly holds true in the flooring industry. In addition to ensuring high quality, specialty shops are regulated through state law, which has the highest standards for consumer product safety.
At smaller flooring retailers, the products sold are first quality, even at the builder-grade level. This ensures that customers can rely on the warranties and a smoother installation process. When you buy from a big box store, you may need to purchase extra material to make up for defective pieces. This can be avoided by purchasing higher-quality products from a specialty shop, and the savings can go toward a product upgrade instead. The better the product offered to you, the less waste you will incur.
Quality and installation go hand-in-hand. Local retailers typically use in-house installers or subcontractors that work exclusively for them. They have a vested interest in the company where they work, which in turn, provides quality craftsmanship. Big box stores outsource their work to outside installation companies and cannot regulate the quality of the installation.
When dealing with a small business, most of the time, you are dealing directly with the owner or a family member, not someone only worried about making a sale. Family-owned businesses are built on their reputations. Word of mouth is their main source of advertising. Educating customers on what products best fit their needs is key. A lot goes into a great finished product like subfloor conditions, moisture levels or just design esthetics. One thing is for certain, when you deal with a reputable small business, you can feel at ease that all corners will be covered.
