Empire Flooring, also known by many consumers as Empire Today, has become a prominent name in the U.S. flooring industry. With decades of experience, it offers in-home consultations, a wide range of flooring products, and professional installation services. Many homeowners and commercial property managers look to Empire Flooring when seeking convenience, variety, and expertise. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review, including product offerings, installation considerations, pricing details, and real-world usage scenarios. According to market data published by the Freedonia Group, the overall U.S. demand for flooring is expected to keep growing steadily, reflecting the ongoing desire for higher-quality floor materials. This growth indicates that understanding what a leading brand like Empire Flooring can offer is increasingly relevant for consumers.
Overview of Empire Flooring
Empire Flooring has long presented itself as a customer-focused service. The brand highlights the convenience factor by bringing samples directly to the customer’s home, so they can view different materials in their actual living spaces. This minimizes guesswork and helps customers select flooring that complements their existing furniture, wall colors, and lighting conditions. Empire Flooring has built a reputation around fast installation services, with many projects completed within days of the initial consultation. Combined with a broad catalog of materials—carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl plank, and tile—Empire Flooring positions itself as a one-stop solution for flooring needs.
In terms of reputation, Empire Flooring frequently appears in forums, consumer review platforms, and industry case studies. While experiences can vary, many positive reviews emphasize the efficiency of the in-home consultation process and the overall quality of the materials. On the other hand, some criticisms center on pricing negotiations or customer support follow-ups. Nevertheless, the brand’s longstanding operation and recognizable jingle have kept it a familiar option across the United States.
Product Range and Features
Carpet
Empire Flooring offers a wide variety of carpet choices, catering to different budgets and design preferences. From plush, high-end styles to more cost-effective options, Empire’s in-home consultants usually bring a range of swatches to help customers visualize potential matches. Carpets come in diverse fiber compositions, including nylon, polyester, and wool blends, each providing different performance traits. Nylon carpets typically stand out for durability, while polyester carpets often deliver excellent stain resistance—ideal for households with children or pets.
Hardwood
Hardwood flooring is a popular choice among homeowners looking for elegance and longevity. Empire Flooring’s hardwood roster features species like oak, maple, hickory, and cherry. Oak remains a favorite for its resilience, while maple’s lighter hues complement modern interiors. The company also provides engineered hardwood for spaces where moisture or temperature fluctuations are concerns, allowing customers to feature the warmth of wood in basements or humid climates. Engineered hardwood layers a hardwood veneer over a composite core, offering greater stability over time.
Laminate
Laminate flooring has gained popularity for its affordability and durability. Empire Flooring’s laminate products often mimic the appearance of hardwood or tile at a fraction of the price. Laminate floors come in various thicknesses and textures, some featuring water-resistant cores that can be beneficial in kitchens or bathrooms. Because laminates are relatively easy to maintain—requiring regular sweeping and occasional mopping—additional costs for care and maintenance stay minimal over the product’s lifespan.
Vinyl Plank
Vinyl plank is another in-demand option among Empire’s product line, offering impressive water resistance and a comfortable feel underfoot. Empire Flooring carries luxury vinyl plank as well, which can offer an even more realistic wood or stone appearance. Vinyl plank floors are praised for being budget-friendly while providing robust performance in high-traffic areas. They are especially popular among homeowners looking to balance style, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Tile
For areas exposed to moisture or requiring superior stain resistance—such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens—Empire Flooring’s tile selection might be the ideal match. Tile options range from classic ceramic to high-end porcelain, with size and finish variations to suit different tastes. Porcelain tile is known for its durability and low-maintenance characteristics, making it a strong contender for households that expect frequent spills or foot traffic.
Prices and Cost Considerations
While the exact cost of flooring projects can vary widely based on materials, square footage, and local market conditions, Empire Flooring generally prices its products and services in the mid- to higher-range compared to some other DIY-friendly options. However, many customers are drawn to Empire’s comprehensive approach, which includes consultation and professional installation in one bundled quote. Below is a sample table displaying representative pricing for some Empire Flooring products. These figures are approximate and can differ by location.
| Flooring Type | Approx. Price per sq.ft. (Material + Installation) |
|---|---|
| Carpet | $3.00 – $6.50 |
| Hardwood | $7.00 – $12.00 |
| Laminate | $3.50 – $7.50 |
| Vinyl Plank | $3.50 – $8.00 |
| Tile | $4.00 – $10.00 |
These are not official price points and should be taken as a broad reference. Certain premium hardwoods or specialized installations could surpass the higher end, while promotional discounts might lead to lower-than-advertised prices. Customers often appreciate that Empire Flooring’s representatives discuss pricing during the in-home consultation, which allows for on-the-spot adjustments to find suitable materials within a set budget. There are also financing options available, including promotions that offer no-interest payments over a limited time, making more expensive flooring choices accessible.
Installation Process and Timeline
One of Empire Flooring’s strongest selling points is its quick turnaround time for installations. After a customer decides on their preferred flooring type, the company schedules professional installation, sometimes within days. This rapid arrangement can be especially appealing to those managing tight renovations or unexpected floor replacements due to damage. The installers typically remove old flooring, conduct subfloor preparation, and then place the new materials. In many cases, customers have reported that projects can be completed within a single day, although larger or more complex jobs may take longer.
Empire’s installation teams are typically trained and experienced, meaning they have a working knowledge of different surfaces and finishes. If the subfloor requires special attention, such as leveling, moisture barriers, or repairs, Empire can typically handle those aspects as well. The in-home consultation stage is designed to detect potential issues early, so the customer can plan for them both financially and logistically. Overall, the ease and cohesion of having a single point of contact for both materials and labor often appeal to homeowners seeking a more stress-free remodeling experience.
Customer Feedback and BBB Rating
Consumer feedback is a crucial element in evaluating a flooring provider. Currently, Empire Today (the parent brand for Empire Flooring) holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). While ratings can fluctuate, this high BBB rating underscores the company’s efforts to address and resolve complaints in a timely manner. Online reviews across platforms like ConsumerAffairs and Yelp show mixed feedback—some customers applaud the quick installation and excellent customer service, whereas others mention pricing discrepancies or scheduling misunderstandings. Potential customers should consider reading multiple reviews and paying attention to recurring themes rather than focusing on a single positive or negative account.
It is also worth noting that product performance sometimes depends on variable factors like local climate, the skill of assigned installers, and how well the floor is maintained after installation. For instance, hardwood floors in regions with high humidity may require additional care to prevent warping. Because of this, a handful of complaints related to product quality might be attributable to environmental conditions rather than solely to the materials or the brand.
Comparison with Other Flooring Brands
When selecting a flooring provider, homeowners often survey multiple brands and vendors to find the best fit. Empire Flooring differs from large home improvement chains such as The Home Depot or Lowe’s in that it focuses on a direct-to-home model. Rather than having to drive to a physical store, consumers can schedule an in-home demonstration with Empire, which some find more convenient. In terms of pricing, Empire’s comprehensive quotes can appear higher, but those quotes generally encapsulate both materials and labor. Meanwhile, buying flooring from a big box retailer can be cheaper in some cases but might require separate arrangements for installation and potential additional fees for old floor removal.
- Convenience: Empire’s scheduling and home visit approach is a key differentiator.
- Layout and Selection: Big box stores enable hands-on browsing, while Empire offers curated samples in your space.
- Cost: Empire often bundles pricing; big box stores might allow you to purchase materials and DIY the install.
- Support: Empire handles both product and labor warranties; other retailers might separate these responsibilities.
Small local flooring businesses can offer customized services similar to Empire’s, but they may not always match Empire’s extensive reach or promotional offers. Ultimately, the better choice depends on personal preferences, budget, and location.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining newly installed floors is often an afterthought for consumers, but it plays a big role in long-term satisfaction. Empire Flooring materials, whether they are carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, or tile, come with manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and care. Following these instructions helps preserve appearance and structural integrity.
- Regular Cleaning: Vacuuming carpet weekly, sweeping hardwood or laminate daily, and mopping vinyl or tile floors periodically to remove dirt.
- Spill Management: Quick cleanup prevents stains and moisture-related damage.
- Protective Measures: Using furniture pads and area rugs can limit scratches and wear.
- Periodic Inspection: Checking for signs of bubbles, warping, or loose tiles can catch minor issues before they escalate.
Empire Flooring’s staff often share additional tips during installation, especially if there are unique local considerations like high humidity, harsh winters, or heavy foot traffic. Combining these insights with recommended cleaning products can lengthen the floor’s lifespan.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
The U.S. flooring market is seeing multiple shifts, including a rising interest in sustainably sourced materials and innovative synthetic options that offer high durability. According to the National Wood Flooring Association, there is a growing focus on eco-friendly wood certifications and finishes with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. In response, Empire Flooring has begun increasing the availability of environmentally conscious materials, including engineered hardwoods with responsibly sourced veneers or recyclable vinyl flooring variants.
Beyond sustainability, consumers are also seeking personalization, opting for bolder tile patterns, custom finish colors, and hybrid products that balance the feel of natural wood with the resilience of laminate or vinyl. Empire Flooring’s wide product range appears well-positioned to meet these needs, and continued adaptation to emerging technologies or materials will likely play a role in maintaining its standing in the industry.
Expert Insights and Recommendations
Flooring experts generally advise consumers to carefully evaluate several factors before deciding on a product. The main points often include climate compatibility, household lifestyle, and upfront vs. long-term costs. For example, a busy family with pets might lean toward scratch-resistant laminate or vinyl plank, whereas a solitary condominium owner might prefer the classic appeal of hardwood. Empire Flooring’s approach of demonstrating samples during a home visit can help individuals align flooring choice with these specifics.
Professionals also emphasize the importance of subfloor preparation. A poorly prepared subfloor can overshadow even the best flooring material. During consultations, or in pre-installation checks, it is wise for homeowners to ask detailed questions about how the subfloor will be handled. Understanding the total scope of the project—removal of old flooring, leveling, moisture barriers—minimizes unexpected expenses or delays. Given Empire’s track record and expansive network of installers, they often have the capacity to address these concerns swiftly.
Real-World Applications
Empire Flooring installations are found in diverse contexts, from single-family homes and condos to large commercial sites. Residential spaces benefit from Empire’s fast turnaround, especially in multi-room renovations. Commercial clients, such as office or retail locations, may appreciate the brand’s ability to expedite projects without prolonged business disruptions. In both scenarios, Empire’s wide product selection allows tailoring of materials to suit unique needs—like slip-resistant tile in a restaurant or noise-buffering carpet for a corporate office. Some homeowners also report using Empire’s services when flipping houses or updating rental units, valuing both the convenience and broad inventory. Since property turnover often adheres to tight schedules, a swift installation partner can significantly reduce vacancy or downtime.
Common Customer Concerns
Despite Empire Flooring’s longstanding presence, consumers sometimes have recurring questions or worries. One common area of confusion is cost: some reviews mention that the initial quote may feel high, but that Empire is open to price negotiation. Customers who feel unsure about pricing often obtain multiple estimates before finalizing their decision. Another concern is scheduling, as certain regions may experience backlogs during peak seasons like summer home renovations. Booking an in-home consultation early can help secure a preferred timeline. Finally, some homeowners worry about post-installation support. The BBB rating and warranty options suggest that Empire takes steps to address these apprehensions, but prospective buyers are always encouraged to explicitly inquire about warranties and any ongoing customer service policies.
Conclusion
Empire Flooring remains a well-known leader in the American flooring space, offering a wide product selection, convenient in-home consultations, and prompt installations. Its A+ BBB rating underscores a commitment to customer service, although, like any major brand, it has faced mixed reviews. For those who prioritize speed, professional workmanship, and a simplified approach, Empire’s bundled service might warrant the potentially higher cost. Industry trends indicate that modern flooring solutions will continue to evolve, placing emphasis on sustainability, durability, and design variety. Consumers looking to balance these considerations can benefit from Empire Flooring’s broad catalog and experienced consultants.
Ultimately, the ideal flooring decision depends on individual needs—budget, household traffic, aesthetic preferences, and regional environmental conditions. Empire Flooring’s model of bringing samples directly to the home, coupled with fast installations, can be a strong advantage for busy homeowners or commercial clients. That said, it is always prudent to compare multiple providers, read verified reviews, and ask thorough questions during any consultation. With thoughtful planning and a holistic view, individuals can select flooring that fits their lifestyles while maximizing long-term satisfaction.