Obtaining free samples of flooring is a widely available service offered by numerous companies to assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions. The primary purpose of these programmes is to allow customers to evaluate materials in their own homes, where lighting, texture, and colour can be assessed against existing decor. This practical approach helps mitigate the risk of selecting a product that appears differently online than it does in person.
Several key themes emerge from the available information regarding the acquisition of free flooring samples. Firstly, many brands offer these samples at no cost, often including free shipping to the customer. Secondly, there are usually limits on the number of free samples one can order per transaction or household. Thirdly, the process is typically conducted entirely online, although some physical retailers also provide samples in-store. Finally, the size of the samples varies but generally provides a sufficient representation of the flooring's appearance and feel.
Where to Find Free Flooring Samples
Various online retailers and manufacturers have established sample programmes. The specifics of these programmes, including costs, limits, and shipping methods, vary by provider.
BuildDirect
BuildDirect offers a sample programme that includes free shipping. According to the source data, customers can obtain 5 free samples of any style from their catalogue. The samples are approximately 4 inches by 6 inches in size. If a customer requires more than five samples, they may order additional ones for a minimal fee.
iFloor
iFloor is described as a large company carrying a variety of flooring types, including hardwood, cork, bamboo, laminate, and vinyl. They reportedly allow customers to order 5 free flooring samples from their catalogue, which are express shipped to the door for free.
Elmwood Reclaimed Timber
For those interested in eco-friendly options, Elmwood Reclaimed Timber allows customers to request up to 4 free samples from their catalog. Shipping is free, and the process involves filling out a quick form on their website.
Lumber Liquidators
Lumber Liquidators provides options for both in-store and online sample acquisition. Customers can visit a physical store and pick up 3 samples for free. Alternatively, online orders are available: 3 samples for $10 with free shipping, which includes a $10 credit towards a future purchase. Additional samples online cost $1 each.
Other Brands and Retailers
- Shaw: Samples from Shaw’s collections are available for $4.99 each and come with free shipping.
- Armstrong: Samples are generally at least 7 inches wide but cost $5 each, with shipping starting at around $8.
- Karndean: Offers up to 6 free 4" x 4" floor samples via the "Add sample +" link or "Order free sample" button on their website.
- BuildMyPlace: Provides complimentary samples of hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile with free shipping.
The Process of Ordering Samples
Ordering flooring samples online is generally a straightforward process designed for consumer ease. Most companies require customers to browse their online catalogues or brochures to select preferred styles. Once a product is chosen, there is typically a specific button or link, such as "Order free sample," to add the item to a sample cart.
For example, Karndean instructs customers to click the "Add sample +" link on the product search page or the "Order free sample" button on any product page to receive up to 6 free 4" x 4" samples. Similarly, BuildDirect allows users to select up to 5 free samples from their catalogue with free shipping.
Some programmes, like Elmwood Reclaimed Timber, require filling out a quick form to initiate the sample request. In the case of Lumber Liquidators, online orders involve a fee, but the company offers a refund of this fee if the customer proceeds with a full flooring order through them. It is noted that samples are free at local Lumber Liquidators stores.
BuildMyPlace emphasises an "Easy Online Ordering" process where users can select and order samples in mere clicks. Their FAQ section clarifies that customers can order several free flooring samples to compare various styles and materials.
Understanding Sample Limitations and Costs
While many companies offer free samples, there are often specific limitations or costs associated with ordering.
Quantity Limits
Most free sample programmes impose a limit on the number of free items a single customer can request. This is likely to manage costs and prevent abuse of the programme. * BuildDirect: 5 free samples. * iFloor: 5 free samples. * Elmwood Reclaimed Timber: Up to 4 free samples. * Karndean: Up to 6 free samples. * Lumber Liquidators: 3 free samples in-store; 3 samples for $10 online (with a $10 credit).
If a customer requires more than the allotted number of free samples, most companies will accommodate this for a fee. For instance, BuildDirect charges a minimal fee for additional samples beyond the initial 5 free ones. BuildMyPlace states that customers can order "a number of samples," implying flexibility, but does not specify a hard cap in the provided text.
Shipping Costs
Free shipping is a common feature of online sample programmes. BuildDirect, iFloor, Elmwood Reclaimed Timber, and Karndean all offer free shipping on their samples. Lumber Liquidators includes free shipping with their $10 online sample pack. BuildMyPlace explicitly states "Free Shipping on Samples."
However, not all brands offer free shipping. Armstrong samples, for example, incur a shipping fee that starts at around $8 in addition to the $5 per sample cost.
Sample Costs
The cost of samples varies significantly. Many brands offer samples for free or at a very low cost. However, some charge a nominal fee. As noted, Armstrong charges $5 per sample, and Shaw charges $4.99 per sample, though Shaw includes free shipping. Lumber Liquidators charges a fee for online samples, but this is refunded upon placing a full order.
Characteristics of Flooring Samples
Understanding what to expect from the samples themselves is crucial for accurate evaluation.
Sample Size
The size of the samples provided allows for a good representation of the flooring's appearance. Common sizes mentioned in the source data include: * 4 inches by 6 inches: Used by BuildDirect and Elmwood Reclaimed Timber. * 4 inches by 4 inches: Used by Karndean. * At least 7 inches wide: Used by Armstrong.
BuildMyPlace mentions that their samples are a "close representation" but notes that there may be variations in full-size planks. This is an important consideration for consumers to keep in mind when making their final decision.
Sample Content
The samples are generally described as being exact replicas or close representations of the actual flooring product. BuildDirect states their samples are an "exact replica of the floors." This allows customers to feel the texture, which is a key factor in choosing flooring. Some textures are smooth, while others have a grain.
BuildMyPlace encourages customers to test the samples to ensure they meet their standards for durability and appearance under daily traffic conditions.
Benefits of Using Free Flooring Samples
The primary benefit of ordering flooring samples is the ability to make a well-informed choice before committing to a significant investment. Flooring is a long-term feature of a home, and seeing the product in person helps avoid disappointment.
Key benefits highlighted in the source data include: * Viewing the Real Colour: Lighting in a room can drastically change how the colour of the flooring appears. Samples allow for assessment under the specific lighting conditions of the intended space. * Feeling the Texture: The tactile experience of the flooring is important. Samples let customers feel whether a floor is smooth or has a specific grain. * Matching with Decor: Placing samples next to walls, furniture, and cabinets ensures a harmonious match with existing decor. * Testing for Durability: Customers can assess how the flooring might hold up to daily traffic in their own conditions. * Comparing Options: Ordering multiple samples allows for side-by-side comparison of different styles and materials, such as hardwood, vinyl, laminate, and tile.
Karndean also suggests using their Floorstyle visualizer tool in conjunction with samples to further visualize how a chosen floor will look in a specific space.
Delivery and Expectations
Once samples are ordered, delivery is typically swift. BuildMyPlace states that most samples are sent within a short period and will reach customers in a few days. BuildDirect uses FedEx for delivery and expects samples to arrive within 1-2 business days via overnight shipping.
For customers ordering online from Lumber Liquidators, shipping is free for the sample pack. For those collecting in-store, the samples are available immediately.
It is also worth noting that, according to BuildDirect, there is generally no need to return samples; they are yours to keep. This allows for continued reference throughout the decision-making process.
Conclusion
Ordering free flooring samples is a highly recommended step for anyone considering new flooring. Numerous reputable companies, including BuildDirect, iFloor, Elmwood Reclaimed Timber, Lumber Liquidators, Karndean, and BuildMyPlace, offer various sample programmes to suit different needs. These programmes typically provide free or low-cost samples with free shipping, allowing consumers to compare materials, colours, and textures in the comfort of their own homes. By taking advantage of these services, UK consumers can make confident, well-informed decisions, ensuring the chosen flooring perfectly complements their living space and lifestyle.