5 Steps to Choose Local Flooring and Support Your Community

When it comes to upgrading your home, choosing the perfect flooring isn’t just about style or durability—it’s also a chance to invest in your community. Supporting local small businesses not only enhances your home but also helps your local economy thrive. By shopping at a flooring shop near you, you’re choosing quality, personalized service, and a stronger community. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through five practical steps to help you confidently select a local flooring provider. Whether you're a homeowner, property owner, or interior designer, these tips will empower you to make thoughtful decisions while prioritizing community support. Let’s dive in! 

Step 1: Understand the Value of Shopping Local 

Supporting local businesses has a ripple effect throughout your community. According to the Small Business Administration, local small businesses account for 44% of all sales in the United States. Beyond that, 92% of small business owners personally donate to local charities and nonprofits. When you shop local, you’re contributing to job creation, neighborhood development, and causes that matter most to you. 

Unlike big-box stores, local flooring companies offer a personalized touch. They’re deeply invested in the community and are more accountable to their customers. A Step Above Flooring, for example, is a locally owned business known for its expert service, top-notch products, and strong community ties. 

Shopping local often means appreciating the unique value and personalized service a small business brings to the table, especially when it comes to customer satisfaction. Check out our testimonials to see how we’ve earned the trust of neighbors like you. 

Step 2: Research Flooring Options and Local Contractors 

Before you begin your search, it’s helpful to know the basics. Flooring materials come in all shapes and sizes—hardwood, carpet, vinyl, laminate, tile—each offering unique benefits depending on the room, lifestyle, and budget. Visiting a flooring shop near you lets you see these options firsthand and ask questions about what will work best in your space. A Step Above Flooring provides a wide variety of products to fit any style or budget, including trusted brands like Mannington, Mohawk, Anderson, and more, ensuring you’ll find the perfect match for your home. Explore our flooring page for more inspiration. 

Equally important is researching contractors. Reviews and testimonials are a great way to gauge a company’s reliability and customer satisfaction. With A Step Above Flooring, you don’t just get access to quality materials—you also gain the confidence of working with accredited professionals who can handle your flooring installation with precision and care. Our services page outlines everything we provide, from expert installation to follow-up care, all backed by our certifications and industry credentials. 

Checklist for Vetting Local Flooring Contractors 

Finding the right flooring contractor doesn’t have to be overwhelming—just focus on these straightforward steps to ensure you’re working with a reliable pro: 

1. Verify Credentials: Always check for licenses, insurance, and certifications to ensure professionalism. If a contractor can’t provide these, consider it a red flag. A Step Above Flooring, for instance, is fully licensed and insured, giving you peace of mind right from the start. 

2. Check Brand Partnerships: Reputable contractors work with trusted flooring brands, a sign that they prioritize quality. A Step Above Flooring proudly partners with industry-leading names like Mannington, Mohawk, and Anderson. 

3. Read Reviews and Ask for References: Online testimonials can reveal a lot about a contractor’s reliability. Go one step further and ask for references to speak with previous customers directly. It’s worth the extra effort to get a clearer picture of their service. 

4. Compare Quotes—But Look Beyond the Price: A detailed quote should include more than just the total cost. Look for clarity on labor, materials, timelines, and any potential extras, like subfloor repairs. Transparent pricing often signals a contractor’s honesty. 

5. Evaluate Communication: Pay attention to how responsive and professional the contractor is during your initial interactions. Do they answer your questions thoroughly? Do they follow up promptly? The way they treat you now is often a sign of how they’ll handle your project later. 

With A Step Above Flooring, you get all of this and more. Learn about our trusted services and qualifications on our accreditations page. 

Step 3: Compare Quotes and Services 

It’s no secret that comparing quotes boosts confidence—63% of homeowners say it’s the step that makes them feel most secure about their project. When requesting quotes, make sure they outline all aspects of the job, including labor, materials, and potential hidden costs, like subfloor repairs. 

Local businesses like A Step Above Flooring stand out by providing transparent and detailed estimates. Plus, they often offer more comprehensive services, like installation and follow-up care, which can make the process straightforward and stress-free. 

Check out the range of services we provide here. 

Step 4: Look for Financing and Personalized Options 

Flooring projects can be a big investment, but financing options make it possible to prioritize high-quality materials and installation without overspending. Many local small businesses, including A Step Above Flooring, offer flexible plans that let you create your dream space while staying within budget. 

Another reason to choose local is the level of personalized care. Whether you’re updating a high-traffic entryway or designing a cozy retreat, local contractors take the time to recommend materials and techniques tailored to your needs. That level of customization is something larger retailers often can’t match. 

Explore financing options and connect with us here. 

Step 5: Choose a Company That Fits Your Needs 

At the end of the day, trust and quality are the most important factors when selecting a flooring provider. A reliable company will offer high-quality products, transparent pricing, and a positive customer experience from start to finish. 

A Step Above Flooring excels in all of these areas. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way, with a focus on delivering results you’ll love. Visit our showroom or schedule a consultation to see why so many homeowners and designers trust us with their projects. 

Learn more about our offerings on our services page. 

Your Perfect Floors Are Just a Step Away with A Step Above Flooring 

Supporting local small businesses not only benefits your community but also gives you access to the best quality, service, and expertise for your flooring project. A Step Above Flooring makes shopping local simple and rewarding. We offer a wide variety of flooring options, flexible financing, and a personalized approach that larger stores can’t compete with. 

Ready to take the next step? Contact A Step Above Flooring today to explore your options and start creating the home of your dreams. Visit us online at our contact page or stop by our showroom.