Generations Forum

Are you considering installing laminate flooring in your home? If so, maybe you're planning to take a trip down to your local DIY store to see what they have available? While that's certainly an option, there are other methods of purchasing your flooring materials which may or may not have advantages for you. The following four options should be enough to get you started in your search; each has its pros and cons which need to be carefully considered.

Department Stores

Large department stores usually have a home improvement section, limited as it may be. Some department stores carry a small line of laminate flooring products at a low enough price to make them a tempting option. But remember, you get what you pay for. Purchasing flooring materials at a department store usually means that you won't have access to advice or installation help from qualified sales people. Any warranties that come with the materials may also be limited.

DIY Stores

DIY stores specialize in home improvement materials for the average home owner. However, most DIY chains also carry an extensive line of the materials for professional contractors. This means you'll be able to find a range of laminate flooring products from the lowest quality and price to the highest. The store will most likely be staffed with sales associates who have at least a basic knowledge of flooring materials and how to install them. Prices will be reasonable and most products will have a decent warranty.

Dedicated Flooring Stores

 If you want the absolute best quality laminate flooring you can do no better than purchasing it from a store specializing in flooring materials. These stores are generally staffed with trained experts who know all details of flooring materials. Here you'll get the best advice, the best service, and an unparalleled warranty on most products. The biggest downside to this is the fact that the prices will be as high as they can be. However, if you ask about close-out items and sales you may be able to find a good deal.

Online

Usually the cheapest prices on laminate flooring come from online retailers. The fact that they don't have the same overhead costs as a brick and mortar store means they can sell their products at a lower cost. In many cases, you can get laminate flooring cheaper online than you can at a local store. And that includes shipping most of the time. All that said buying online is always a risk because you're not sure what you'll be getting until it arrives. Customer service from some online retailers leaves much to be desired, which is something else to consider.