Wayfair vs EmpireToday

Not long ago, shopping for flooring meant sacrificing a Saturday to roam big-box aisles with tile samples and swatch books in hand. Today, you can browse hundreds of choices from your couch and have the materials delivered to your doorstep. Many retailers even ship low-cost sample kits so you can check colors and textures in your own light before you commit. Whether you're diving into a full renovation or giving a single room a quick refresh, buying flooring online is more convenient than ever - and with a few smart tips, it can be every bit as dependable as an in-person visit.

Here's what's hot right now: waterproof flooring still leads the pack, especially luxury vinyl plank and tile that look like real wood or stone but shrug off spills, scratches, and pet traffic at a friendly price. Wide planks and matte finishes keep rooms feeling clean-lined and open, while cork and bamboo are back for anyone who prefers a warmer step underfoot - a favorite among eco‑conscious homeowners. Don't write off carpet, either; with bold patterns, natural fibers, and advanced stain resistance, it's more stylish and practical than ever. Many of these choices also shine in kitchens, basements, and busy entryways, and the latest click‑lock systems make DIY installs easier than you'd expect.

Shopping for flooring online stands out for one big reason: selection. Instead of being stuck with whatever your local store has on hand, you can scroll through a huge mix of colors, textures, and materials - often at better prices with web‑only deals. Many retailers will even mail free samples so you can touch and see the finish before you commit. On top of that, today's sites build in decision helpers, with room visualizers that let you upload a photo of your space and preview different looks. You can also lean on reviews and customer photos to see how a product performs in real homes. It's a surprisingly fun way to shop, and those tools make it easier to narrow your shortlist with confidence.

Getting the measurements right is crucial, and it's where the best online flooring shops really shine. Many offer straightforward measuring tutorials, real-time chats with experts, and even phone camera apps that estimate your square footage. Before you check out, make sure they also carry matching trim, underlayment, and other essentials - the last thing you want is to unpack your order and realize you're missing something critical. It's also smart to plan for a small waste allowance and confirm you can easily reorder or return extra boxes.

Before you click buy, check what the seller offers for installation. Many online flooring retailers partner with local pros and can bundle installation into your order, while others just ship the materials and leave you to hire a contractor or tackle it yourself. Either route can work - the key is knowing which one you're getting so you can map out your budget and timeline. Also ask about lead times, prep requirements, and who handles removal and disposal, since those details can change the cost and schedule.

Not sure where to start? Keep an eye on these factors as you browse; they'll help you find the right flooring store:

• Selection and pricing. Choose a store that carries a wide range of the kind of flooring you want (hardwood, vinyl, tile). Look for per-square-foot costs and what's included vs. what you might need to add to your order.
• Measurement tools. If you're not confident in your ability to accurately measure your space with your trusty tape measure, go with a flooring retailer that offers plenty of tools (like smartphone measuring apps and visualizers).
• Return policy and shipping terms. Flooring is bulky and heavy, so shipping fees and returns can be expensive. Make sure you know what you're getting into if you didn't quite get the measurements right the first time.
• Customer reviews. What do other shoppers say about their experiences? Did the flooring look as good as it did online (and did it install as easily as promised)? Is customer support easy to reach and helpful to work with? How does the flooring store handle the inevitable challenges that arise?

Shopping for flooring online gives you more flexibility, more inspiration, and often more value - but it pays to do a little homework first, so the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have researched and ranked some of today's most popular retailers to give you a head start. Once you know what to expect, you can confidently upgrade your space without ever setting foot in a warehouse.