Based on checking the website, Empiretoday.com appears to be a legitimate and established provider of in-home flooring sales and installation services, aiming to simplify the flooring purchase process for consumers.
They highlight features like in-home consultations, a wide selection of flooring types including carpet, laminate, hardwood, vinyl, and tile, and professional installation often available as soon as the next day.
The site emphasizes an “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” to avoid hidden fees and offers financing options, along with a “Low Price Guarantee.” While the website showcases numerous positive testimonials, a comprehensive review would delve into the nuances of these claims, common customer experiences, and how their services compare to industry benchmarks.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Understanding the Empire Today Business Model: Convenience vs. Control
Empire Today operates on a model designed for maximum customer convenience.
They bring the showroom to you, which can be a huge time-saver for busy individuals.
However, this approach also shifts the dynamic of the traditional flooring purchase.
The In-Home Consultation Experience
When you schedule an appointment with Empire Today, a sales representative, often referred to as a “flooring professional,” visits your home with a range of samples.
This allows you to see how different flooring options look in your actual lighting and with your existing décor.
They measure your rooms on the spot and provide an “All-Inclusive Price Estimate.”
The All-Inclusive Pricing Promise
Empire Today heavily promotes its “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” as a key benefit, stating that it covers product cost, measuring, professional installation, padding/underlayment, moving furniture, haul away of old flooring, thresholds/transitions, and cleanup.
This aims to provide transparency and avoid the surprise charges often associated with home improvement projects.
Installation Logistics
Installation is typically performed by independent contractors.
Empire Today emphasizes quick installation, with “Next Day” options available for in-stock carpet and flooring styles in select areas.
This speed can be a major draw for customers looking to complete their projects quickly.
Deciphering Empiretoday.com’s Marketing Claims and Customer Expectations
Empire Today’s marketing is clear: convenience, speed, and transparency.
However, as with any major home service provider, it’s crucial to look beyond the headlines and understand what these claims truly entail for the customer experience.
The “25,000+ 5-star reviews” Claim
The website prominently displays “25,000+ 5-star reviews.” While this number is impressive, it’s essential to consider the source and context of these reviews.
Are they collected directly by Empire Today, or from independent third-party platforms? A large volume of reviews, even positive ones, doesn’t always tell the whole story without deeper analysis of sentiment and common themes.
“Low-Price Guarantee” and Competitive Offers
Empire Today asserts, “We’ll beat any competitive offer with our low-price guarantee.” The fine print reveals that this guarantee applies if, within 30 days of placing an order and no later than one business day prior to installation, you receive a lower price for “substantially the same product and installation” from a licensed competitor.
This requires detailed documentation, including product name, price, weight, style type, fiber content, thickness, plank width, and an itemized listing of warranties and services.
It also explicitly excludes matching competitor bonuses, special offers, rebates, financing offers, clearance, or closeout prices. This isn’t a simple price match. it requires diligence from the consumer.
“Up to 40% Off” Sales Events
The site advertises “Limited Time – June Savings Event – Up to 40% off!” promotions.
The asterisk leads to terms indicating that the discount is “15% off plus up to an additional 25% based on project size and service area.” It applies to select styles of carpet and flooring, basic installation, standard padding, and materials, but excludes upgrades, stairs, take-up of permanently affixed flooring, non-standard furniture moving, and other miscellaneous charges.
This highlights the importance of understanding the specific conditions and potential exclusions of advertised discounts.
Navigating the Product Selection and Quality on Empiretoday.com
Empire Today offers a broad spectrum of flooring options, aiming to cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional needs.
The website showcases various categories, allowing customers to explore different materials and styles.
Carpet Options: Comfort and Style
The website displays numerous carpet options, categorized by style e.g., Plush, Pattern, Frieze, Berber and color.
Examples like “Grand Reserve Lantana Cream Plush Carpet” and “Incomparable El Capitan Gray Frieze Carpet” are highlighted.
Carpeting is often chosen for its comfort, sound-dampening qualities, and warmth.
Understanding the fiber content e.g., nylon, polyester, wool and density is crucial for assessing durability and ease of maintenance, although detailed specifications might require an in-home consultation.
Hardwood and Laminate Flooring: Classic Looks
For those seeking the timeless appeal of wood, Empire Today offers engineered hardwood and laminate options.
“Grand Bridge Royal Brown Engineered Hardwood” and “North Bay Fairfield Gray Wood Laminate” are examples.
Hardwood provides natural beauty and longevity, while laminate offers a more budget-friendly, durable alternative with realistic wood-grain visuals.
Key factors for evaluation include wear layer thickness for laminates and veneer thickness for engineered hardwoods, as these impact durability and refinishing potential.
Vinyl and Tile Flooring: Versatility and Durability
Vinyl and tile options, including luxury vinyl tile LVT and vinyl plank, are presented as versatile and durable choices, particularly for high-moisture areas.
“Northbrook Pavilion Gray Vinyl Plank” and “Options White Luxury Vinyl Tile” are featured.
Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly, offering enhanced water resistance e.g., “Aqua Defense Waterproof Flooring” promoted on the site and realistic textures.
Tile, known for its extreme durability and resistance to water, is a classic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Considering the wear layer, thickness, and installation method e.g., click-lock vs. glue-down for vinyl, and the PEI rating for tiles, are important for assessing their suitability for specific traffic levels.
The Empire Today Customer Journey: From Estimate to Installation
Understanding the multi-step process outlined by Empire Today can help set proper expectations for customers considering their services.
The website breaks down the journey into three key phases.
Step 1: Schedule a Free Estimate
This is the initial point of contact.
Customers can schedule an estimate online or by phone.
The site mentions “Same-day appointments are available,” which underscores their focus on rapid response and convenience.
This step is designed to remove the friction of visiting a showroom.
Step 2: In-Home Consultation
A flooring professional conducts the in-home consultation.
This is where samples are presented, measurements are taken, and the “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” is provided.
The professional is expected to guide the customer through material choices, explain differences, and help select the right floors.
This stage is crucial for managing expectations regarding product aesthetics, functionality, and the overall project cost.
Step 3: Professional Installation
The final step involves the installation by “professional installers.” The website states they will “move your furniture, remove and haul away your old floor, install your new flooring, and clean up when they’re finished.” The promise of comprehensive service from start to finish is a significant selling point, aiming to minimize disruption for the homeowner.
The “as soon as Next Day” installation for in-stock items is a strong differentiator, appealing to those with urgent flooring needs.
Financing Options and Business Solutions Offered by Empire Today
Beyond residential services, Empire Today also caters to commercial clients and provides financing solutions to make large purchases more manageable for consumers.
“Floors Now, Pay Over Time” Financing
Empire Today offers financing options with “convenient monthly payments for your budget,” subject to approved credit.
While the website provides a link to “View Financing Options,” specific terms e.g., interest rates, repayment periods, deferred interest promotions are not detailed on the main page and would require further inquiry.
This is a standard offering for large home improvement purchases, helping customers spread out the cost rather than paying a lump sum upfront.
It’s always wise for consumers to fully understand the terms and conditions of any financing agreement before committing.
Flooring for Business
Empire Today extends its services to the commercial sector, stating, “We serve businesses of all sizes from corporate and healthcare facilities, to small businesses, and property management groups.” This indicates their capability to handle larger scale projects with different requirements than residential installations, such as higher durability standards and specific aesthetic needs for commercial environments.
This suggests a separate sales and installation process tailored to business clients, likely involving different product lines and volume-based pricing.
The “See a Floor in Your Room” Visualizer Tool
A notable feature on Empiretoday.com is the “See a Floor in Your Room” visualizer tool.
This interactive tool aims to mitigate one of the biggest challenges in flooring selection: imagining how a sample will look in an actual space.
How the Visualizer Works
The tool guides users through three steps:
- Snap a Pic: Users can upload a photo of their own room or select one of Empire Today’s stock photos.
- Choose a Floor: Users browse and sort by color, type, and other criteria to find a floor that matches their style.
- See it in Your Room: The selected floor is then digitally rendered into the uploaded or chosen room photo, allowing for a realistic preview. Users can save or share these visualizations.
Benefits of the Visualizer
This tool significantly enhances the online shopping experience. It helps customers:
- Visualize before committing: Reduces uncertainty about how a particular flooring option will look in their home.
- Narrow down choices: Allows for quick experimentation with different styles and colors without physical samples.
- Share with others: Facilitates decision-making by enabling easy sharing with family members or interior designers.
While no digital tool can fully replace seeing a physical sample in person, especially for texture and subtle color variations, this visualizer is a valuable aid in the preliminary selection process.
Empiretoday.com’s Commitment to Service and Guarantees
Beyond the transactional aspects, Empire Today emphasizes its commitment to customer satisfaction through various service guarantees and a clear process for addressing concerns.
Low Price Guarantee Revisited
As previously mentioned, the Low Price Guarantee is a key part of their value proposition.
While the detailed terms require careful attention from the consumer, it signals Empire Today’s intent to remain competitive on pricing within the defined parameters.
This is a common strategy among large retailers to instill confidence in their pricing.
Installation Quality and Independent Contractors
The website states, “Installation provided by independent contractors.” This is a standard practice in the home improvement industry.
While independent contractors can offer flexibility and specialized skills, it’s essential for customers to understand that Empire Today acts as the coordinator, managing the project, but the actual labor is performed by third-party teams.
This model requires robust vetting and oversight from Empire Today to ensure consistent quality and adherence to schedules.
The website provides their CSLB Contractors State License Board number 1047108, which allows consumers to verify their licensing.
Customer Service and Support
While not explicitly detailed as a separate section on the homepage, the presence of “Help” and “My Account” links suggests avenues for customer support.
For a service-oriented business, the responsiveness and effectiveness of their customer service in addressing inquiries, scheduling changes, or post-installation issues are critical aspects of the overall customer experience, influencing satisfaction and review outcomes.
Understanding Common Themes in Online Reviews General Perspective
When evaluating a service like Empire Today, it’s useful to consider common themes that emerge in online reviews for similar companies.
While Empiretoday.com highlights 5-star reviews, a balanced perspective would acknowledge a broader spectrum of customer experiences.
Positive Review Themes:
- Convenience: Many customers appreciate the in-home service, saving them time and effort.
- Speed of Installation: The quick turnaround, sometimes next-day, is a significant advantage for those needing immediate flooring solutions.
- Professionalism of Installers: Often, positive reviews praise the efficiency and skill of the installation teams.
- All-Inclusive Pricing Clarity: For some, the upfront, single-price estimate simplifies the budgeting process.
Potential Areas for Customer Feedback General Industry Observations:
- Pricing Competitiveness: While Empire Today offers a “Low Price Guarantee,” some customers might find their initial quotes higher than local, independent contractors, especially if they don’t engage in the detailed price-matching process. This often comes down to comparing the “all-inclusive” package against itemized quotes from smaller businesses.
- Sales Pressure: In-home consultations can sometimes lead to perceptions of sales pressure, particularly when a decision is expected on the spot.
- Installation Issues: Even with “professional installers,” minor issues can arise e.g., delays, minor damages, cleanup not being perfectly thorough. The key is how quickly and effectively these are resolved.
- Product Specifics: While a wide range of products is offered, some discerning customers might find limitations in highly specialized or niche flooring options compared to dedicated showrooms.
- Post-Installation Support: The ease of resolving warranty claims or post-installation concerns can significantly impact overall satisfaction.
Making an Informed Decision: Beyond the Homepage
While Empiretoday.com presents a polished and reassuring front, making an informed decision about a significant home improvement investment like flooring requires due diligence beyond what’s immediately visible on the homepage.
Independent Review Aggregators
Always check independent review platforms like Better Business Bureau BBB, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google Reviews.
Look for patterns in feedback, both positive and negative.
Pay attention to how the company responds to complaints, as this often indicates their commitment to customer service and problem resolution.
Get Multiple Quotes
Even with Empire Today’s “Low Price Guarantee,” it’s prudent to get at least two to three competitive quotes from other local flooring retailers or contractors.
This allows for a direct comparison of not just price, but also product specifications, warranty details, and installation scope.
Ensure you’re comparing apples to apples when evaluating different bids.
Read the Fine Print
Thoroughly review all contracts, warranties, and financing agreements before signing.
Understand the specifics of the “All-Inclusive Price Estimate,” what’s covered, and what might be an additional charge.
Pay close attention to cancellation policies and installation timelines.
Ask Detailed Questions
During the in-home consultation, don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions about:
- The specific product’s durability, maintenance, and warranty.
- The installation process, including subfloor preparation and transitions.
- What happens if issues arise during or after installation.
- The credentials and insurance of the independent contractors.
By taking a proactive and diligent approach, consumers can leverage the convenience offered by Empire Today while ensuring they make a well-informed decision that aligns with their needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of flooring does Empire Today offer?
Empire Today offers a wide range of flooring options, including carpet, laminate, hardwood, vinyl including luxury vinyl plank and tile, and traditional tile flooring.
How does the Empire Today in-home estimate work?
You schedule a free in-home estimate, and a flooring professional comes to your home with samples, measures your rooms, and provides an all-inclusive price estimate on the spot.
Does Empire Today offer same-day installation?
Empire Today offers “Next Day” installation for in-stock carpet and flooring styles in select areas, depending on product availability and scheduling.
What is included in Empire Today’s “All-Inclusive Price Estimate”?
The “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” typically includes the product cost, measuring, professional installation, padding/underlayment, moving furniture, haul away of old flooring, thresholds/transitions, and cleanup.
Can I get financing for my flooring purchase with Empire Today?
Yes, Empire Today offers financing options with convenient monthly payments, subject to approved credit.
Specific terms and interest rates would be provided upon inquiry.
Does Empire Today have a low-price guarantee?
Yes, Empire Today states they will beat any competitive offer for substantially the same product and installation if you receive a lower written estimate from a licensed competitor within 30 days of placing your order and before installation. Specific conditions and exclusions apply.
Are Empire Today’s installers employees or independent contractors?
Installation services for Empire Today are provided by independent contractors.
How do I use the “See a Floor in Your Room” tool on Empiretoday.com?
You upload a photo of your room or choose one of their stock photos, then select different flooring options to digitally visualize how they would look in your space.
Does Empire Today serve businesses as well as residential customers?
Yes, Empire Today provides flooring solutions for businesses of all sizes, including corporate, healthcare, small businesses, and property management groups. Chessufund.com Reviews
What types of carpet styles does Empire Today carry?
Empire Today carries various carpet styles, including plush, pattern, frieze, and Berber, in a range of colors and materials.
Does Empire Today offer waterproof flooring?
Yes, Empire Today features “Aqua Defense Waterproof Flooring” as part of their vinyl options, designed to resist water.
What should I do before an Empire Today in-home estimate?
It’s helpful to clear any clutter in the areas where you plan to install flooring and have an idea of your preferred styles, colors, and budget.
Can I cancel my Empire Today order?
Cancellation policies would be outlined in your contract.
It’s important to review these terms carefully during the sales process.
How long does an Empire Today installation typically take?
Installation times vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but Empire Today aims for quick turnaround, often within a day or two for standard rooms.
Does Empire Today move furniture?
Yes, the “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” typically includes moving furniture as part of the installation service.
Does Empire Today remove old flooring?
Yes, the service usually includes the removal and haul away of your old flooring.
How accurate is the “See a Floor in Your Room” visualizer?
While the visualizer provides a good approximation, it’s a digital representation.
Final color and texture can vary slightly in person due to lighting and screen differences, so it’s always best to view physical samples. Babycurls.co.uk Reviews
Are there any hidden fees with Empire Today’s pricing?
Empire Today emphasizes their “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” is designed to avoid hidden fees by including common charges upfront.
Always review your detailed estimate to ensure clarity.
What is the typical warranty on Empire Today flooring?
Warranties vary by product and manufacturer.
Specific warranty details for the chosen flooring type should be discussed during the in-home consultation and provided in writing.
How do Empire Today’s promotions like “Up to 40% Off” work?
These promotions typically involve a base discount plus additional savings based on project size and service area, applied to select styles and standard installation components.
Exclusions for upgrades and certain services often apply, so reading the fine print is crucial.
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