The provided source material details a specific sample programme for Aqua Step flooring, a product manufactured in Belgium and distributed in the United States and Canada. The information is derived from promotional and informational pages associated with a US-based distributor. The programme offers consumers the ability to order physical samples of flooring designs to assess suitability for home or business projects. Key aspects of the offering include a nominal sample fee, a specific range of available designs, and details on the product's unique construction and waterproof properties. The programme is managed by a US distributor, and the available information pertains to their operational scope, which is stated to cover the USA and Canada. The sourcing of this information comes from what appear to be the distributor's own websites, which provide product details and a sample ordering interface.
Product Overview and Design Range
Aqua Step is presented as a 100% waterproof flooring product manufactured in Belgium since 2003. It is distinguished from conventional laminate flooring by its design and construction. The product line is divided into several design categories: wood designs, stone designs, and a specific "Shipdeck" finish. The wood designs are described as having beveled edges on both the long and short sides of the plank, with V grooves intended to create a sense of depth. The stone designs, marketed under the "Aqua Step Mini" collection, consist of ceramic and natural stone tiles that are designed to mimic the look and feel of the wood designs. These tiles feature a pearl embossed coating to emphasise their natural appearance and have beveled edges on all sides. A notable feature is the ability to combine wood and tile designs with a seamless joint, allowing for visual division between spaces such as kitchens, offices, living rooms, and lounges.
The Shipdeck finishing is a specific style within the wood design range. It is characterised by beveled edges along the long sides of the plank and distinctive black square grooves that emulate the authentic look of a ship deck. It is noted that all Shipdeck styles are special order items.
Sample Ordering Process and Costs
The sample programme is straightforward, allowing customers to order individual samples of available flooring styles. The process is managed through an online interface where each sample style is listed with a price. According to the source data, the full price for a single sample is $5.00. This fee is non-refundable but allows customers to physically inspect the product's colour, texture, and finish before committing to a full purchase.
The distributor states a customer-friendly policy: if a received sample does not meet expectations, they will send replacement samples at no charge. This policy is designed to help consumers find the most suitable design for their space.
For those ready to proceed with a full purchase after reviewing samples, the source data indicates that the price per square foot ranges from $1.85 to $2.99. It is important to note that this pricing and the availability of specific colours are subject to change and are limited. The source material mentions that the distributor is in the process of liquidating inventory, which may affect the availability of certain designs and square footage. Consequently, customers are advised to contact the distributor via phone or email prior to placing a sample order to confirm stock levels for their desired colour and quantity.
Availability and Geographic Considerations
The provided information is specific to the operations of a US-based distributor. The company description states that they are the sole US distributor for Aqua Step flooring and that they deliver locally and ship throughout the USA and Canada. There is no mention of shipping to the United Kingdom or other international locations within the provided source data. Therefore, based solely on the available information, the sample programme appears to be accessible primarily to consumers within the United States and Canada.
The source data also includes a special offer for free shipping within a 50-mile radius of the postal code 01887, provided customers mention they saw the offer through a specific channel. This further confirms the localised nature of the distributor's service area.
Eligibility and How to Request Samples
The sample ordering process is open to any interested consumer, business, or trade professional. There are no stated eligibility restrictions such as membership requirements or prior purchase history. The primary requirement is the willingness to pay the $5.00 sample fee per item.
To request samples, the process is as follows: 1. Visit the sample ordering page on the distributor's website. 2. Browse the available styles, which include Beach-house Oak, Canyon Pecan, Chambord Walnut, Lounge Oak, Parcolux – Cheverney Oak, Parcolux – Loft Oak, Parcolux – Oak Grey, Paros Brown, Ultra White, and Vendôme Oak. 3. Select the desired samples and add them to the cart. 4. Before finalising the order, especially given the liquidation status, it is highly recommended to contact the distributor to confirm the availability of the chosen colours and the required square footage. 5. Complete the purchase by paying the sample fee. Shipping costs will apply unless the special local offer is applicable.
For full orders, the process involves direct contact with the distributor via the provided phone number or email address to discuss requirements and place the order.
Important Considerations for UK Consumers
While the product itself is manufactured in Belgium, the sample programme as described is operated by a distributor serving the US and Canadian markets. UK-based consumers seeking Aqua Step samples would need to investigate whether a separate European or UK-based distributor exists. The provided sources do not contain information on European distribution channels, sample programmes, or UK shipping. Therefore, the details herein are applicable only to consumers within the distributor's stated service area.
Furthermore, the source material indicates that the distributor is liquidating inventory. This suggests that certain colours and styles may be available only while supplies last, and there is a possibility that the product line may be discontinued or replaced in the future. Customers should verify current stock and product availability directly with the distributor.
Conclusion
The Aqua Step flooring sample programme offers a practical method for assessing a waterproof flooring product before purchase. For a fee of $5.00 per sample, consumers can receive physical samples of wood, stone, and Shipdeck designs. The programme is characterised by a no-cost replacement policy for unsatisfactory samples and direct access to the distributor for stock verification. However, the available information is specific to a US-based distributor and its operations within the USA and Canada. UK consumers should seek out European or UK-based distributors for similar services. The programme's current inventory liquidation status necessitates direct contact with the distributor to confirm the availability of specific designs and colours prior to ordering.