3 Ways to Test Your Flooring Samples

When it comes to choosing new floors for your home, one of the toughest decisions you’ll probably face is narrowing down the many styles available. Here at your local Carpet One Floor & Home, we know that one of the best ways to do this is to order flooring samples. With a Carpet One flooring sample box, you can look through a vast number of flooring styles, choose six of your favorites, and get them delivered directly to your home! 

Floor samples are a great way to help you envision what your space could look like before you settle on your flooring choice. However, making a decision on which sample you prefer can be difficult. And we get it! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of ways you can narrow down your sample choices and find the flooring solution that works for you.

Stuck on which flooring sample to choose for your project? Here are three ways to test your samples and find the best one.

1. Assess Your Design Goals

Use your samples to assess whether or not your flooring matches your preferred color and style scheme. Here are a few ideas to help you assess how your flooring works with your interior design.

Mix & Match

• Compare your flooring samples next to walls, windows, and furniture to select the floor sample that best complements your style.

• Make sure your flooring sample flows well with your paint scheme, window treatments, and upholstery.

Create a Mood Board

• If you are in the process of constructing or remodeling your home, create a mood board to envision your interior.

• Display your paint, upholstery, and flooring materials together to select a complimentary look.

Consider Your Design Goals

It can be tough to narrow down your flooring options. However, it’s possible that some of the samples you chose don’t necessarily match your design goals.

• Compare your samples to find the option that fits the aesthetic you are dreaming of. 

• If your sample looks out of place, it might not be a contender. 

2. Damage Your Floor Samples

Yep, we said it! If you have small children or four-legged family members running around, you’ll need a flooring option that's as durable as it is beautiful! Flooring samples are meant to be tried out, and that includes testing them for spills, scratches, and stains. Here are three ways to test your samples.

Water Damage

If you plan on installing your new flooring in an area with potential water damage, it's a good idea to test your sample!

• First, spray or drip water on your sample and wipe it up immediately.

• Repeat the first step, only allow the water to sit for a few minutes. If you notice any staining or residue, it may not be the flooring option for you.

Food & Beverage Spills

Water isn't the only thing you'll have to clean up! 

• Test your flooring samples for staining or residue with coffee, wine, red sauce, juice, etc.

• Use your preferred cleaning products to see how each sample reacts or consult our Stain First Aid app to use tried and true methods of cleanup based on your flooring type.

Test Durability

While most flooring solutions offer water resistance and durability, it's still a good idea to test your sample's strength:

• Walk on your sample with and without shoes. Do you see scuff marks? Is the flooring too slippery?

• Mimic your pet's nails by scratching the sample with tools or silverware. Do you notice any scratches or tears?

• Drop something heavy or sharp onto your sample, e.g., keys or dumbbells. Do you notice any cracks or dents?

3. Invest In Your Senses

Don't forget to consider how each sample looks and feels! Your flooring may change in look throughout the day, or the sample may not be exactly what you were expecting underfoot. Use your senses to discover which sample you prefer.

Test Your Lighting

Much like paint color, the look of your flooring will change due to natural and artificial lighting. 

• Test the look of your flooring samples in certain areas and at different times of the day.

• Take pictures of each sample at different times of the day, and use different accent lighting, e.g., overhead lights and lamps. Which sample captures the light just right?

How Does Your Sample Feel? 

• Consider how each floor feels by running your fingers over each sample. Is your carpet sample as soft as it is luxurious? Does your vinyl plank sample offer the same warmth and texture as real hardwood?

• Consider how the flooring feels underfoot. Stand on your sample barefoot, and with different pairs of shoes or socks. Is it comfortable to stand on for prolonged periods, or is it stiff and cold?

Choose The Best Flooring at Carpet One

Of course, the best flooring solution will be the one that fits you! If you're still not sure which sample to choose, visit your local Carpet One Floor & Home. We help our customers narrow their samples down to a flooring option that best suits their specific lifestyle and interior design. Ready to get started on your flooring project? Browse our online flooring selection or contact us today!