Visiting a Flooring Store: What to Ask and What to Avoid

When you go to a flooring store, have some ideas of what you want, but also be open to the advice of a professional. 

Bring Photos

Bring along photos of the area that will be redone. They will help the design consultant visualize the color, shape and size of your space and determine what sort of floor will work best for you. For instance, if you are looking to have your kitchen redone, he will steer you towards the tile and hard surface selection in shades that best match your color scheme. If you are looking for a living room, you will see hardwood surfaces as well as carpet samples.

Take Home Samples

Be sure to go home with samples of several different flooring types and lay them down where you are going to have the new floor installed. Leave them there for at least a day, and observe the way they look in the morning light and at night time to get a well-rounded opinion.

Don't Rush

Be prepared to share information about children or pets as well as how often you entertain in your home, as these factors will determine what kind of floor suits your needs. Don't be fooled by advertisements for things that are 'on sale' or 'closing out.' Take your time to shop around and find the kind of flooring that is the best fit for your home. Choosing a new floor is at least a semi-permanent decision, so don't let yourself get rushed into anything.