Choosing the right flooring is a big investment for your home or business, so it’s important to shop smart. Whether you’re updating one room or planning a full renovation, asking the right questions at a flooring store helps you make informed decisions, compare options, and avoid costly mistakes. Here are 10 essential questions to ask before making your final flooring purchase.

1. What Types of Flooring Do You Specialize In?

Every flooring store has its strengths, and knowing what they specialize in helps you find the best fit for your needs. Ask whether the store carries a wide selection of carpet, waterproof plank, laminate, hardwood, and tile flooring. This ensures you can compare different materials side-by-side. For example, waterproof plank flooring is excellent for moisture-prone areas like kitchens or basements, while hardwood is ideal for creating a timeless, elegant look. By understanding the store’s expertise, you can take advantage of their knowledge in each category and receive better recommendations tailored to your home’s style and functionality.

2. Do You Offer Free Estimates, Quotes, and Consultations?

Before committing to any flooring project, it’s important to understand the costs and process involved. Ask if the store provides free estimates, quotes, and consultations. A reputable flooring store will gladly send a specialist to measure your space and give you a detailed estimate with no obligation. This allows you to budget properly, compare prices between stores, and explore different materials. A free consultation is also an opportunity to discuss your lifestyle needs—such as high foot traffic, pets, or allergies—so the flooring professional can recommend the most suitable options.

3. What Kind of Warranties Do You Offer on Installation?

Quality flooring should come with strong warranty protection, not just for the product but also for the installation. Ask whether the store provides lifetime installation warranties. A lifetime warranty shows that the store stands behind its workmanship and ensures that if something goes wrong—such as improper installation or early wear—you’re covered. This added peace of mind protects your investment for years to come. Flooring professionals that offer lifetime installation warranties are often confident in their technicians’ expertise and the materials they use.

4. How Long Will My Project Take from Start to Finish?

Timing is crucial, especially if you’re working on a home renovation or preparing a property for sale. Ask your flooring store about their average turnaround time. Reputable stores with organized processes and skilled crews can often complete installations quickly without compromising on quality. Quick turnaround times are especially helpful if you need flooring replaced before hosting an event or moving into a new home. A professional store will provide you with a realistic project timeline, factoring in delivery, prep work, and installation, so you can plan accordingly.

5. What Are the Differences Between Carpet, Laminate, Hardwood, Waterproof Plank, and Tile Flooring?

If you’re unsure which flooring type is right for your space, ask the store to explain the key differences between their offerings. Carpet provides warmth and comfort, making it a great choice for bedrooms and living rooms. Laminate offers the look of wood at a more affordable price point, while hardwood delivers natural beauty and longevity. Waterproof plank flooring combines style and durability—perfect for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms or basements. Tile flooring stands out for its versatility and easy maintenance. By comparing these materials, you can balance your design preferences with your budget and lifestyle needs.

6. Can I See Samples in My Home Before I Decide?

Lighting, wall color, and room size can all influence how flooring looks in your space. Ask if the store provides take-home samples or offers in-home consultations. Many flooring professionals will bring carpet, hardwood, laminate, waterproof plank, and tile samples directly to you. This allows you to see how different textures and colors complement your décor under your home’s natural lighting. Viewing samples in your own environment ensures you’ll love the finished result once the flooring is installed.

7. What Maintenance Does Each Flooring Type Require?

Not all floors require the same level of upkeep. Some homeowners prefer low-maintenance options, while others don’t mind a bit of extra care for the sake of aesthetics. Ask your flooring consultant about the cleaning and maintenance requirements of each material. For example, according to Real Simple, it’s best to mop your floors at a cadence of once every two to three weeks. While waterproof plank and laminate flooring are easy to clean and ideal for busy families, hardwood may require periodic refinishing. Carpet needs regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning, while tile flooring benefits from grout sealing. Understanding long-term maintenance will help you choose a flooring option that fits your lifestyle and time availability.

8. Who Performs the Installation?

Even the best flooring material won’t perform well if it’s installed incorrectly. Be sure to ask who handles the installation. Reputable flooring stores employ experienced installers who follow industry standards. Skilled installation ensures precise measurements, smooth seams, and long-lasting durability. It’s also wise to confirm that the store provides a lifetime installation warranty for additional protection. Choosing a store that uses trained professionals guarantees that your carpet, hardwood, tile, laminate, or waterproof plank flooring will look and function exactly as intended.

9. How Do You Ensure Customer Satisfaction After Installation?

Customer care doesn’t end once the flooring is installed. Ask how the store handles follow-ups and addresses any post-installation concerns. Reputable flooring companies take pride in their work and value customer satisfaction above all else. They may conduct a final walkthrough to ensure every detail meets your expectations or follow up with a courtesy call after completion. Stores that prioritize customer relationships—offering lifetime installation warranties, free consultations, and responsive service—demonstrate a commitment to long-term satisfaction. This kind of ongoing support separates the best flooring professionals from the rest.

10. Do You Offer Eco-Friendly or Sustainable Flooring Options?

As more homeowners seek to reduce their environmental impact, sustainable flooring has become an important consideration. Ask your flooring store if they carry eco-friendly options such as bamboo, cork, recycled tile, or sustainably sourced hardwood. Many modern carpet and laminate products are also made with low-VOC adhesives and recycled materials, making them safer for indoor air quality. If you’re considering waterproof plank flooring, inquire whether it’s free of harmful chemicals. A knowledgeable flooring store will be transparent about their materials and manufacturing processes, helping you make an environmentally responsible choice that still aligns with your design goals.

Shopping for new flooring doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. By asking these 10 questions, you’ll gain valuable insight into product quality, installation standards, warranties, and customer service. Whether you’re drawn to the cozy comfort of carpet, the elegance of hardwood, the practicality of waterproof plank, or the durability of laminate and tile, the right flooring store will help guide you every step of the way. With the right team by your side, your new floors will enhance your home or business’s beauty, functionality, and comfort for years to come. Founded in 1956, our team at Taylor Carpets and Flooring provides expert flooring sales and installation services. Our local, family-owned business has locations in Provo and Lehi, UT. We offer a wide range of products, we have over 50 years of experience in the industry, and we honor all manufacturer warranties and offer a lifetime installation warranty. Contact us today to get started!