Acquiring free samples of flooring materials is a practical step for consumers seeking to make informed purchasing decisions for their homes. By examining physical samples, individuals can assess colour, texture, and durability under their own lighting conditions before committing to a significant investment. The process for obtaining these samples varies by retailer and brand, with differing policies regarding cost, shipping, and quantity limits. This guide outlines the methods and options available for sourcing flooring samples, based on information from various online retailers and manufacturers.
Local and In-Store Sampling Options
The quickest method for acquiring flooring samples is often to visit a local flooring retailer. Specialty shops frequently stock samples of brands that may not be readily available elsewhere. If a specific sample is not in stock, many of these stores can order the required items. In addition to specialist retailers, large hardware stores may offer a selection of free flooring samples. While the range in-store can be limited, often consisting of carpet swatches and linoleum, it provides an immediate way to view materials. For those focusing on hardwood, engineered flooring, laminate, and luxury vinyl, visiting a physical location allows for direct comparison of different species and wood-look materials.
Online Retailers Offering Free Samples
Several online retailers provide complimentary samples to assist customers in selecting the right flooring for their needs. These programmes are designed to simplify the decision-making process by allowing consumers to compare different styles and materials from the comfort of their homes.
Build My Place
Build My Place offers a complimentary sample service to help customers select the best flooring option. They provide samples of large flooring options, including hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile. The company offers free shipping on all samples, which can be ordered easily online. According to their frequently asked questions section, customers can order a number of samples to compare various styles and materials. Samples are described as a close representation of the full-size product, although there may be variations in colour and texture. The service is confirmed to be genuinely free of charge.
BuildDirect
BuildDirect operates an online marketplace for building materials, including a comprehensive lineup of flooring. Their sample programme allows customers to receive five free samples of any style from their catalogue, with free shipping included. The samples are typically around 4 inches by 6 inches in size. If a customer requires more than five samples, they can order additional ones for a minimal fee.
iFloor
iFloor is a large online retailer specialising in home goods and flooring, such as laminate, hardwood, and luxury vinyl. They list samples for every style of flooring available on their site, currently priced at £0.99 per sample. There is no maximum or minimum order requirement, and sizes may vary. It is noted that sample pricing is subject to change. iFloor also carries a wide variety of brands, more so than many other online retailers.
Lumber Liquidators
Lumber Liquidators provides multiple avenues for obtaining flooring samples. Customers can visit a local Lumber Liquidators store to pick up three samples for free. For online orders, the policy involves an initial cost: the first sample is priced at £15, with extra samples costing £5 each. However, the full cost of the samples is refunded if the customer proceeds with an order through Lumber Liquidators. Online sample orders also come with free shipping. The company stocks a range of brands, including Bellawood, Dream Home, CoreLuxe, Builder's Pride, and Virginia Mill Works, offering samples of products like engineered hardwood, laminate, and waterproof vinyl plank flooring.
Brand-Specific Sample Programmes
Certain flooring manufacturers offer their own sample programmes, allowing consumers to experience their products directly.
Shaw
Shaw offers samples from all of its collections, which include carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, and laminate flooring. These samples are available for £4.99 each and are shipped for free. Customers can often find Shaw samples through various online and local retailers, or order directly from the company.
Armstrong
Armstrong flooring samples are available locally at flooring stores, as well as at retailers like Lowes and Home Depot. Customers can also order samples directly from Armstrong. The company offers hundreds of options, with samples generally measuring at least 7 inches wide. The cost is £5 per sample, with shipping starting at approximately £8.
Elmwood Reclaimed Timber
For those interested in sustainable and reclaimed flooring, Elmwood Reclaimed Timber offers a sample programme. Customers can request up to four free samples from their catalogue of reclaimed hardwood flooring. The process involves filling out a quick form, and shipping is provided free of charge.
Eco-Friendly and Niche Flooring Samples
Sourcing samples for eco-friendly flooring can sometimes be more challenging. Green Building Supply specialises in eco-friendly brands, offering samples of hardwood and bamboo flooring. While they do not carry vinyl or laminates, they provide a unique Marmoleum sample box for those interested in modern linoleum products. This service addresses the difficulty of finding locally sourced eco-friendly flooring samples.
Understanding the Sampling Process
When requesting flooring samples, it is important to understand the variations in policies and what to expect from the received materials.
Costs and Shipping
Policies regarding cost and shipping vary significantly. Some retailers, like Build My Place and BuildDirect, offer genuinely free samples with free shipping. Others, such as iFloor, charge a nominal fee per sample (e.g., £0.99). Lumber Liquidators employs a refundable deposit model where the cost of samples is credited back upon placing a full order. Direct from manufacturer programmes like Shaw’s offer samples for a set fee (£4.99) but include free shipping, while Armstrong charges both a per-sample fee and a shipping fee.
Quantity and Eligibility
Most programmes allow customers to order multiple samples to facilitate comparison. Build My Place and iFloor do not specify a maximum limit, while BuildDirect offers a standard package of five free samples with the option to purchase more. Lumber Liquidators allows three free samples in-store or online orders starting with one sample. Elmwood Reclaimed Timber limits their free offer to four samples. Generally, no special eligibility requirements are mentioned beyond completing the standard order process.
Colour and Texture Representation
It is important to note that samples provide a representation of the final product. As stated by Build My Place, samples are a close representation, but there may be variations in colour and texture when compared to full-size planks. Lighting in a room can significantly alter the appearance of flooring, making it essential to view samples in the intended space.
Delivery Timelines
Online retailers generally aim for prompt delivery of samples. Build My Place indicates that most samples are dispatched quickly and arrive within a few days. Delivery times for other retailers are not specified in the provided data, though standard shipping times would apply.
Conclusion
Obtaining free or low-cost flooring samples is a widely available service offered by numerous online retailers, physical stores, and manufacturers. The options range from genuinely free samples with complimentary shipping to programmes that involve a refundable deposit or a small fee. Consumers in the UK can access samples of various materials, including hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and eco-friendly alternatives, to ensure they select the most suitable flooring for their homes. By comparing these samples in person, buyers can make a well-informed choice based on real-world colour, texture, and quality.