Did you know that choosing the right flooring for your home can increase its value by up to 3%? Flooring is not only essential for aesthetics but also plays a significant role in the overall appeal and functionality of your living space. However, when it comes to flooring installations, cost is a crucial factor to consider. In this article, we will compare the prices and services of two well-known flooring companies in Canada: Empire Today and Home Depot. By understanding the pricing details, material options, labor costs, financing options, and additional fees, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that suits your budget and preferences.
Key Takeaways:
- Comparing the prices of Empire Today and Home Depot is vital for making an informed decision about your flooring needs in Canada.
- Consider the material prices and availability of flooring options offered by each company.
- Labor costs play a significant role in the overall cost of your flooring installation.
- Explore the financing options provided by Empire Today and Home Depot to find the best fit for your budget.
- Be aware of any additional fees and thoroughly review the warranties offered by both companies.
Material Prices Comparison
When it comes to material prices, there are some key differences between Empire Today and Home Depot. The Home Depot offers a wide range of flooring materials, with prices that tend to be below the national average. Empire Today, on the other hand, does not list its prices online and requires customers to schedule an in-home estimate. The material prices at The Home Depot typically fall below the national averages for various flooring types, including carpet, tile, wood laminate, vinyl plank, solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, and bamboo. It’s important to note that Empire Today’s laminate flooring prices are not disclosed, making it difficult for customers to determine if their prices are fair.
| Flooring Type | Home Depot Price Range (per sq. ft.) | Empire Today Price Range (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| Carpet | $2.00 – $5.00 | N/A |
| Tile | $3.00 – $6.00 | N/A |
| Wood Laminate | $2.50 – $6.00 | N/A |
| Vinyl Plank | $1.50 – $5.00 | N/A |
| Solid Hardwood | $4.00 – $10.00 | N/A |
| Engineered Hardwood | $4.50 – $9.00 | N/A |
| Bamboo | $3.00 – $8.00 | N/A |
Labor Costs Comparison
When it comes to the labor costs of flooring installations, both Empire Today and Home Depot rely on subcontracted labor. The total cost of labor will vary depending on the type of flooring and the size of the area that needs to be covered. Typically, tile and hardwood flooring installations are more labor-intensive and expensive compared to other flooring types.
Empire Today and Home Depot may charge labor fees based on either the square footage of the area to be covered or an hourly rate. It’s important to note that Home Depot generally offers lower carpet installation costs compared to Empire Today. However, the labor costs for each project will ultimately depend on specific requirements and factors such as the complexity of the installation, any additional services needed, and the location of the project.
It’s advisable to request detailed labor cost estimates from both Empire Today and Home Depot for your specific flooring project. By comparing these estimates, you can make an informed decision based on your budget and the value offered by each company.
Comparative Labor Costs Example
| Installation Type | Empire Today | Home Depot |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Flooring | $8-12 per square foot | $7-10 per square foot |
| Carpet | $3-6 per square foot | $2-4 per square foot |
| Tile | $10-15 per square foot | $9-12 per square foot |
Financing Options
When it comes to financing your flooring installation, both Empire Today and Home Depot offer options that can help make it more convenient and affordable. Let’s take a closer look at the financing options provided by each company.
Home Depot Financing
Home Depot provides customers with consumer credit card options that offer promotional financing periods. These financing periods allow you to make purchases and pay them off over time without interest, as long as the balance is paid in full by the end of the promotional period. In addition to credit cards, Home Depot also offers project loans for larger purchases, making it easier to manage the cost of your flooring installation.
Empire Today Financing
Empire Today offers its customers two financing plans: a 12-month plan and a 48-month plan. With the 12-month plan, you can enjoy interest-free financing if the balance is paid off within the designated period. This can provide you with some flexibility in managing your budget while avoiding interest charges. The 48-month plan allows for longer-term financing but may come with interest charges. It’s important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of these plans to determine which one best suits your financial needs.
| Home Depot | Empire Today | |
|---|---|---|
| Promotional Financing | Available | N/A |
| Project Loans | Available | N/A |
| 12-Month Plan | N/A | Interest-free if paid within the period |
| 48-Month Plan | N/A | Available with potential interest charges |
When comparing the financing options offered by Empire Today and Home Depot, it’s important to consider the specific terms and conditions of each plan. Determine the duration of the promotional financing period, any potential interest charges, and the minimum payments required. By comparing these factors, you can choose the financing option that aligns with your budget and financial goals.
Additional Fees and Warranties
When comparing Empire Today and Home Depot for flooring installations, it’s essential to consider the potential additional fees associated with each company. At The Home Depot, customers may incur charges for in-home flooring measurements and may be required to make upfront payment for the entire project before installation. On the other hand, although Empire Today does not disclose any fees on its website, customer reviews suggest the possibility of unexpected fees for services like flooring removal or damage inspections. Therefore, it is crucial for customers to inquire about any potential additional fees upfront to avoid any surprises later.
Both Empire Today and Home Depot offer warranties to provide customers with peace of mind. The Home Depot offers a limited lifetime labor warranty, ensuring that customers are covered in case of any labor-related issues. In contrast, Empire Today offers a service plan that extends beyond the warranty period, providing coverage for damages that may arise in the future. It is recommended that customers thoroughly review the warranty terms provided by both companies to determine which one aligns better with their needs.
Considering the potential additional fees and the warranties offered by Empire Today and Home Depot is vital for making an informed decision. By being aware of these factors, customers can better assess the overall value they will receive for their flooring projects and choose the company that suits their budget and requirements.
