What to Look for in Vendor Partner and Flooring Contractor

Choose a company that...

...has relationships with leading carpet, hard surface and installation products manufacturers

Because...it enables the contractor to negotiate the most competitive pricing and leverage that purchasing power to incent vendors to perform their very best.

...can offer unbiased advice about the best product solution for each installation

Because...total flexibility and unlimited choices deliver optimum project solutions.

...has partnerships with service providers for everything from waterproofing and maintenance to logistics and distribution

Because...it allows the vendor to offer advice and solutions related to pre-and post-installation aspects. These partnerships help us expedite production and ensure project schedules are met.

...is aware of and coordinates with other trades on the project, in addition to navigating the flooring logistics and installation process.

Because...wouldn’t you rather work with a team player who “gets” the big picture, versus a “that’s not my problem” company?

...is willing to stay involved to help facility managers and end users manage costs down the road

Because...lots of little things can affect the floor’s ROI, like maintenance, inventory control, and planning for expansion and renovation, too. Continual vendor partner relationships can support and prevent facility managers from going down the wrong path.

...has stability in an unstable environment

Because...companies who have been in business for a long time have the best financial strength. They know how to estimate materials, labor and overhead to make a profit and satisfy customers. Beware less experienced, low-cost vendors who make ends meet by cutting project corners, underestimate and live on job-to-job cash flow.

...has great referrals, references and testimonials

Because...this speaks for itself. There’s no better endorsement than that of other customers and business peers. Ask for relevant references.

...has experience designing custom solutions and troubleshooting problems

Because...no two floorcovering jobs are alike. Complex and custom installations require novel thinking. Even routine installations may have hiccups. This is when working with the right vendor can make or break a successful installation.

...will guarantee its work

Because...you want a vendor who not only backs up his work in writing, and who uses manufacturer’s guidelines and materials to ensure your warranty, you want one who also has relationships with the mills to help you in the event there are product-related installation issues.

...is owned and managed by respected professionals

Because...who’s minding the store matters! You want to align your efforts with knowledgeable business people who are in tune with their market and industry and who are passionate about their business.

...doesn’t overcome objections by slashing prices

Because...everyone likes a great deal, but warning bells should ring in your head if that’s the first thing a vendor does to earn your business. It’s a sign of desperation and/or bad estimating to begin with.

...has a “Client First” philosophy

Because...a good vendor is aware of and respects your issues and concerns, and makes recommendations based on your requirements, not his convenience.

...doesn’t “greenwash” products or procedures

Because...“environmentally friendly” and “sustainable” are overused and misused in the construction industry. StarNet members invest in management and staff training about LEED and elated industry rating systems.