Choosing the right flooring contractor is a critical decision for housing providers with the potential to significantly impact the overall success of a construction or renovation project. From the quality and range of products to buying power, stock levels, compliance, environmental impact, expertise and service levels, the right flooring solutions go deeper than price alone. These are some of the main points to consider:
Size and reputation: An established contractor with national reach, reputation, buying power and in-depth stock levels is likely to be a reliable, all-round-safe choice in terms of fulfilling a contract on time, within budget and with the specified products. A supplier’s experience in the industry and their reputation can provide valuable insights into their reliability. Checking customer testimonials, case studies, and reviews can help assess the supplier’s reputation.
Local presence and supply chain: Working with businesses who have a strong local presence makes them more accessible and able to provide faster response times for deliveries and support.
Quality and range of products: Look for a company that offers a good breadth of choice. High-quality products from known brands along with competitively priced ‘white label’ lines should be among the options available across a diverse range of carpet, vinyl, laminate, safety flooring, wood and carpet and vinyl tiles. This allows buyers to select the most appropriate product for different areas within a project.
And do they hold sufficient stock levels to ensure consistent availability on all those products?
Sustainability and environmental impact: Increasing emphasis on sustainability means it is important to choose a contractor committed to environmentally friendly practices. Look for those who offer eco-friendly flooring options, such as materials with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions and those made from recycled or sustainable resources. Does the supplier operate any kind of recycling scheme? Many developers now also look for Gold Standard membership of the Supply Chain Sustainability School (an award-winning virtual learning platform dedicated to advancing sustainability practices across the built environment industry). Also look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood products or Cradle to Cradle certification.
Technical support and expertise: A good flooring contractor should offer robust technical support and expertise. This includes providing detailed product information, installation guides, and maintenance advice. Suppliers with knowledgeable staff who can offer on-site consultations and bespoke solutions can significantly add value to a project.
Customisation and design flexibility: Projects often have unique requirements, and the ability to customise flooring solutions can be a big advantage. Suppliers who offer tailored solutions can help developers and buyers achieve their specific aesthetic and functional goals.
Availability and lead times: On-time deliveries keep a project on schedule so evaluating inventory levels and lead times ensures flooring will be available when needed. Reliable contractors should have transparent lead times and contingency plans to handle any delays.
Installation and after-sales service: The quality of installation is as important as the quality of the flooring itself. A professional contractor will ensure that the flooring is laid correctly and efficiently. After-sales service, including warranties and maintenance support is also crucial, along with comprehensive after-sales support to deal with any issues that arise post-installation.
Compliance with standards and certifications: Ensuring that flooring products comply with industry standards and have the necessary certifications is vital. Products should meet British Standards for safety, durability, and performance. Additionally, certifications such as ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management can be indicators of a reputable supplier.
In short, while cost is always a consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor. The goal should be to find a supplier who offers the right balance of quality, service, and value, ensuring that the flooring solution meets both current needs and future expectations.
Designer Contracts operates nationally through its network of regional offices. As well as flooring, the company provides blinds and curtains, furniture and lighting.