🏠 National Floors Direct vs. Empire Today
In today’s fast-moving home renovation world, speed, convenience, and pricing can make or break a consumer’s experience. Two titans — National Floors Direct (NFD) and Empire Today — dominate the direct-to-consumer flooring industry, each promising next-day installation, name-brand products, and showroom-quality consultations right in your living room. But beneath the glossy brochures and sales pitches, what really sets them apart? And which one can you truly trust with your floors—and your money?
🔍 Key Takeaways: Quick Answers for Smart Homeowners
| 🔑 Question | 🧠 Short Answer |
|---|---|
| Who has a better reputation? | Empire Today, despite more complaints, isn’t facing lawsuits for deception. |
| Which one is more transparent with pricing? | Empire, which discloses extra costs for subfloors. NFD is accused of hiding fees. |
| Who offers better protection after installation? | Empire with a 5-year service plan covering accidents. NFD offers no such plan. |
| Which company has legal issues? | National Floors Direct – facing a NYC lawsuit for deceptive practices. |
| What if I want the lowest price? | NFD offers an aggressive 15% price-beat promise—but with many restrictions. |
| Who’s more widely available? | Empire Today – operates in 70+ metro areas vs. NFD’s 12 service centers. |
🛑 Is the Price Really “All-Inclusive”? Here’s What You’re Not Told
One of the biggest questions homeowners have: “What exactly am I paying for?” Both NFD and Empire claim no hidden fees and all-inclusive pricing, but only one backs that up with transparent disclaimers.
📊 Pricing Transparency Comparison
| 🏷️ Feature | National Floors Direct | Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| “No Hidden Fees” Claim | ✅ Yes – but disputed in court ⚠️ | ✅ Yes – with subfloor caveat 🛠️ |
| Legal Trouble Over Fees | ❌ NYC lawsuit for hidden charges 😠 | ✅ No major legal actions 📄 |
| Price Guarantee | 🏁 “15% less or it’s free” – only on first call | 💸 “Beat any offer” – no first call restriction |
| Practicality of Guarantee | ❌ Highly restricted, not ideal for comparison shoppers | ✅ More accessible, fewer hurdles |
💡 Pro Tip: If you value transparency over gimmicks, Empire’s pricing model is easier to navigate, especially for consumers doing competitive research.
👷 Who’s Really Installing Your Floors—and Are They Reliable?
You’re letting a company rip out and rebuild a large section of your home—so installation matters. Unfortunately, this is where many consumers discover the cracks.
📊 Installation Service Quality
| 🔨 Criteria | National Floors Direct | Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Next-Day Installation | 🚫 Promised but frequently delayed (NYC lawsuit) | ✅ Available in select areas, more consistently delivered |
| Cleanup & Haul Away | ⚠️ Not clearly disclosed | ✅ Included |
| Installation Warranty | ❌ Not explicitly provided | ✅ 1-year labor warranty |
| Extended Service Plan | ❌ Not offered | ✅ 5-year, $0 deductible plan 🛡️ |
🎯 Empire wins in long-term peace of mind, thanks to its optional service plan covering accidental damage (like rips, scratches, or buckling)—something NFD completely lacks.
⚠️ Legal Red Flags? Why National Floors Direct Is Under Fire
While both companies face the usual consumer complaints, only National Floors Direct is in legal hot water with serious accusations from city and federal regulators.
📊 Legal and Ethical Red Flags
| 🚨 Issue | National Floors Direct | Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Lawsuit from NYC | ✅ Yes – Deceptive practices, false advertising, illegal fee charges | ❌ No |
| FTC Violation (2019) | ✅ Non-disparagement clause abuse | ❌ None reported |
| Accused of Interfering with Cancellations | ✅ Yes – retained deposits illegally | ❌ No |
| Volume of BBB Complaints | 598 (last 3 years) | 1,913 – but fewer legal concerns |
Empire’s flaws lie mostly in execution. NFD’s issues go deeper—potentially systemic misrepresentation.
📦 What About Product Quality? Who Offers More and Better?
Both companies sell name-brand flooring, but their commitment to quality assurance varies.
📊 Product and Quality Comparison
| 🪵 Attribute | National Floors Direct | Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Flooring Types | Carpet, Hardwood, Laminate, Vinyl, Tile, Rugs | Carpet, Hardwood, Laminate, Vinyl, Tile |
| Brands Mentioned | Bruce, Dal-Tile, Mohawk | Not always disclosed, “Top trusted brands” |
| Certifications | ✅ CRI, “Healthy Home Certified” 🫧 | ✅ AC rating for laminate, WhisperHOME® 🔇 |
| Focus Area | Indoor air quality, health | Durability, sound reduction, warranty standards |
💬 Empire leans into measurable performance. NFD appeals to eco-conscious buyers—but fails to provide the same product guarantees or unique innovations.
💬 What Do Real Customers Say? Complaints vs. Red Flags
A high number of complaints isn’t always a red flag—the type of complaint matters more.
📊 Customer Experience Breakdown (BBB Data)
| 🤔 Metric | National Floors Direct | Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| BBB Rating | ⭐ A+ | ⭐ Mixed |
| Complaints (3 Years) | 598 | 1,913 |
| Common Complaints | Hidden fees, shoddy installation, refusal to refund | Delays, rescheduling, installation quality |
| Legal Action | ❌ Yes (NYC & FTC) | ✅ None noted |
| Positive Feedback Themes | Low prices, good consultants | Helpful staff, flexible financing |
While Empire has more complaints, they stem from scale and operations. NFD’s issues, on the other hand, include fraud-level accusations and alleged consumer rights violations.
💡 Final Verdict: Which Flooring Provider Should You Trust?
📊 Head-to-Head Summary Table
| ⚖️ Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Integrity | Empire Today | No lawsuits, FTC actions, or major ethical breaches. |
| Transparent Pricing | Empire Today | Includes caveats upfront; fewer “gotchas.” |
| Extended Protection | Empire Today | Offers optional 5-year accident coverage plan. |
| Product Innovation | Empire Today | WhisperHOME®, durability ratings. |
| Initial Price Lure | NFD | 15% price-beat guarantee (with restrictions). |
| Installation Reliability | Empire Today | Fewer red flags; more predictable outcomes. |
✅ Expert Advice for Smart Shoppers
- Scrutinize contract fine print—especially with NFD.
- Don’t fall for “free” promises without written guarantees.
- Ask about subfloor prep costs before signing.
- If peace of mind matters, opt for service plans like Empire’s.
- Document every interaction in writing—especially with rescheduling or refund claims.
🧭 Bottom Line: Choose Based on Risk Tolerance
- If you want rock-bottom pricing and are willing to gamble, National Floors Direct might work—but it comes with a real risk of delays, fees, or legal friction.
- If you value predictability, protection, and established ethics, Empire Today is the safer, smarter choice—especially with their extensive service coverage and transparent cost structure.
💬 Comment Section
❓ “I’ve heard horror stories about Empire’s installation crews. Should I be concerned about who they hire?”
Yes, this concern is valid—and not uncommon. While Empire Today does contract out a significant portion of its labor, it still enforces service standards, background checks, and training protocols. However, inconsistencies can emerge, especially in high-volume service regions where third-party installers might vary in skill or professionalism.
What sets Empire apart, though, is its limited installation warranty and a dedicated post-installation resolution team. If something goes wrong, you’re not left in the dark. They also offer an optional service plan that covers improper installation outcomes like lifting tiles or bubbling carpet—something most competitors, including NFD, don’t.
📊 Empire Installer Quality: The Reality
| 🛠️ Factor | 🔍 Empire Today |
|---|---|
| Labor Source | Subcontracted, background-checked |
| Training Program | Standardized but varies regionally |
| Installation Warranty | 1-Year on workmanship |
| Post-Install Support | Dedicated customer service + optional extended plan |
| Complaint Trends | Execution inconsistency, not systemic fraud |
💡 Tip: Always request names of installers and confirm their recent review ratings. You can also ask for photos of previous jobs they’ve completed through Empire.
❓ “Why doesn’t National Floors Direct offer an extended service plan like Empire?”
The absence of a service plan from National Floors Direct (NFD) isn’t just a marketing gap—it reflects a deeper operational philosophy and risk posture. NFD emphasizes price competitiveness over post-sale protection. They bank on the appeal of aggressive pricing and fast delivery, not on comprehensive lifecycle support.
However, that means you, the customer, absorb all risk once installation is complete. If the floor buckles or stains due to an accident, NFD’s standard manufacturer warranty won’t help unless there’s a clear product defect—and even then, labor coverage is often limited or excluded.
📊 What You Risk Without a Service Plan
| 🚫 Without Plan | 🔧 With Plan (Empire) |
|---|---|
| Accidental Damage | ❌ Not covered |
| Re-stretching (Carpet) | ❌ Pay out of pocket |
| Transferable to New Owner | ❌ N/A |
| Warranty on Wear/Use | ❌ Limited by brand rules |
| Deductible | ❌ N/A |
💡 Tip: If you’re outfitting a high-traffic household, skipping coverage like Empire’s is like driving without car insurance. Even the best floors won’t survive dogs, kids, or dropped kitchen tools without risk.
❓ “How can I tell if a flooring quote includes subfloor prep or not?”
Fantastic question—and one that trips up many homeowners. Flooring quotes often bury subfloor conditions in disclaimers, because the state of your subfloor can’t always be fully assessed until old flooring is removed.
Empire Today explicitly includes a clause in their estimates noting potential additional charges for subfloor leveling, moisture barriers, or mold remediation—this is an industry norm, not a red flag.
Conversely, National Floors Direct markets “no hidden fees” but has been sued for allegedly failing to disclose subfloor costs until after the contract is signed, leading to surprise charges and friction with customers.
📊 Subfloor Pricing Transparency
| 🔍 Aspect | 🏗️ Empire Today | 🧱 National Floors Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Disclosure | ✅ States subfloor costs may apply | ❌ Allegedly not disclosed up front |
| Quote Adjustments | ✅ After in-home evaluation | ❌ Often post-contract, per lawsuit |
| Subfloor Services | ✅ Can include leveling, moisture barrier | ⚠️ Frequently added as surprise charge |
| Legal Allegations | ❌ None | ✅ Sued by NYC for fee deception |
💡 Tip: Ask your consultant directly:
“If my subfloor is uneven or has water damage, how much more might this cost—and when will I be notified?”
Document the answer in writing. This simple step can save you hundreds—or even a lawsuit.
❓ “What does ‘first call incentive’ mean in NFD’s price guarantee?”
It’s a catch that many consumers overlook until it’s too late. The “first call incentive” in National Floors Direct’s 15% price beat promise only applies during their first visit to your home. If you invite them back after talking to competitors—or if they return a second time for any reason—you lose access to the price guarantee.
This severely restricts your ability to comparison shop, pressuring consumers to sign quickly rather than research thoroughly. It’s a high-stakes marketing tactic disguised as a discount.
📊 Decoding the ‘First Call Incentive’
| 🎯 Factor | 🧾 National Floors Direct |
|---|---|
| Applies When? | ONLY on first visit 🕐 |
| Competitor Quote Requirements | Must be written, verifiable, recent (30 days) |
| Comparison Limitations | No second appointments allowed for price match |
| Risk for Consumers | Locks decision before full due diligence |
💡 Tip: Never invite NFD into your home until you’ve collected at least two detailed quotes from competitors. If they pressure you to commit on the spot, walk away or record the conversation for reference.
❓ “Do either companies use private-label or low-tier products?”
Excellent insight. Here’s the truth: many flooring companies use private-label brands to hide margin-friendly options under the guise of exclusivity. This can make it harder for you to price-match or research product specs.
National Floors Direct takes a firm stance against private-label goods, boasting that all their offerings are name-brand and directly sourced from manufacturers like Mohawk, Bruce, and Dal-Tile. This increases traceability and quality consistency.
Empire Today uses a mix of name-brand and proprietary products, such as their WhisperHOME® noise-reducing wood flooring, which is exclusive to them. While these aren’t necessarily “low-quality,” they can make side-by-side comparisons trickier, as you can’t find them at retail stores.
📊 Brand Transparency Breakdown
| 🏷️ Factor | 🏢 NFD | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Private Label Brands | ❌ Avoids entirely | ✅ Uses a mix |
| Exclusive Product Lines | ❌ None | ✅ WhisperHOME®, QuietWalk, etc. |
| Brand Transparency | ✅ Names listed online | ⚠️ Some brands undisclosed |
| Benefit to Consumers | ✅ Easier to compare | ✅ Unique features, but harder to match |
💡 Tip: If you’re being pitched a product name you’ve never heard of, ask:
“Can I find this in a national store? Who manufactures it?”
Also request the product’s spec sheet and warranty documentation—if they can’t produce it, you may be dealing with a relabeled private brand.
❓ “I just need a budget-friendly option. Can I trust NFD’s lowest price pitch?”
If your only priority is lowest initial cost, NFD’s pricing might tempt you, especially with their 15% beat-or-free promise. But the fine print—and the legal allegations around hidden charges and misrepresented services—shouldn’t be overlooked.
While the advertised base price may seem unbeatable, customers report being hit with unexpected charges for basic necessities like old flooring removal, subfloor leveling, or even rescheduling fees. In contrast, Empire’s base price is usually higher but more inclusive.
📊 True Cost of a “Low Price”
| 💸 Cost Element | 💥 NFD | 💼 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Estimate | ✅ Very low | ❌ Higher upfront |
| Old Flooring Removal | ⚠️ Often extra | ✅ Included |
| Subfloor Costs | ❌ Hidden in lawsuit claims | ✅ Disclosed as potential cost |
| Risk of Price Jump | ⚠️ High | ✅ Lower risk |
💡 Tip: Ask for a line-item breakdown of every service promised and any that may incur a fee later. Then cross-compare it with Empire’s all-inclusive quote to judge true cost, not just sticker price.
❓ “How does Empire Today handle refunds if I cancel before installation?”
Empire Today provides a structured cancellation protocol—but the key is timing. If you cancel before installation or custom order fulfillment, most deposits are refundable. However, once materials are custom cut, ordered, or shipped, refund eligibility becomes conditional. Their contract typically includes a clause stating that cancellations may be subject to restocking fees or material costs already incurred.
📊 Refund Handling Process – Empire Today
| 🔁 Step | 📌 Detail |
|---|---|
| Cancellation Window | Allowed before installation/material delivery |
| Deposit Refund | ✅ Usually refundable unless custom orders involved |
| Restocking Fee | ⚠️ May apply for custom or specialty items |
| Refund Timeline | ⏳ Typically 7–14 business days |
| Method | Refund issued to original payment method |
💡 Tip: When you sign the estimate, ask your consultant if any materials are being pre-cut or special ordered. Get a copy of the refund policy in writing before paying anything upfront.
❓ “Why do so many people say National Floors Direct has great prices but still end up frustrated?”
National Floors Direct uses a highly aggressive pricing model, front-loading value with eye-catching discounts. However, the price structure is layered with conditional fine print, and many complaints stem from undisclosed or under-communicated charges that appear after the contract is signed.
A recurring theme in customer feedback is unexpected add-ons for basic services—such as removing old flooring, prepping subfloors, or providing thresholds. The initial quote may omit these costs, which only surface once installers assess your space.
📊 NFD: The Price Perception Gap
| 💲 Element | 🔍 Customer Expectation | 🧨 Common Reality |
|---|---|---|
| Quote on First Visit | “All-inclusive” | May omit key labor components |
| Furniture Moving | Included | Only applies to “standard” items—limits apply |
| Old Floor Removal | Marketed as free | Frequently billed separately |
| Reschedule Fees | Not mentioned upfront | Can occur with delays or availability gaps |
💡 Tip: Insist on a written, itemized estimate that includes: material, labor, haul-away, and installation prep. Then request confirmation that no additional charges will be introduced unless you approve them in writing.
❓ “Which company handles large-scale projects better—like multi-room homes or commercial units?”
When it comes to multi-room installations or commercial jobs, Empire Today generally has the logistical edge. Their national footprint, warehousing scale, and larger installation network allow them to coordinate large jobs with more reliability. Additionally, Empire has dedicated B2B teams focused on property managers, builders, and real estate developers.
National Floors Direct can also handle larger residential spaces, but their more regional reach and smaller logistics chain may result in scheduling bottlenecks or project phasing delays, particularly if specialized materials or non-standard room types are involved.
📊 Scalability for Larger Projects
| 🏗️ Category | 🏢 NFD | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Geographic Scope | 12 service zones | 70+ metro areas |
| Commercial Division | ❌ General mention only | ✅ Dedicated B2B team |
| Project Coordination | ⚠️ Regional dependencies | ✅ Centralized dispatching system |
| Large Room Capacity | 🛋️ Residential scale | 🏢 Suited for multi-unit installs |
| Timeline Predictability | Variable | More consistent in metro areas |
💡 Tip: For multi-room installs or commercial properties, ask for a dedicated project manager—not just a sales consultant. With Empire, this is standard for large jobs; NFD may require coordination across multiple visits.
❓ “Is Empire’s ‘next-day installation’ actually realistic, or just a marketing gimmick?”
Empire Today’s “next-day” offer is genuine but conditional. It applies only to in-stock styles and within specific ZIP codes. The truth is, most customers receive installation within 2–4 days, especially during high-demand seasons. However, when next-day is available, Empire executes it more reliably than competitors, thanks to its broad inventory infrastructure and real-time installer scheduling system.
Contrast that with National Floors Direct, where a lawsuit from NYC alleges systematic delays, with customers reporting as many as 8–10 reschedules—a clear disconnect between advertising and delivery.
📊 Next-Day Installation Reality
| ⏰ Factor | 🏢 NFD | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Advertising Claim | “Next-Day on in-stock inventory” | “Next-Day on select in-stock items” |
| Delivery Accuracy | ❌ Frequently delayed (per lawsuit) | ✅ Usually fulfilled where ZIP-eligible |
| Install Logistics | Smaller fleet, limited routes | Wide-area dispatch, more crews |
| Customer Reports | High reschedule frequency | Fewer cancellations, more flexibility |
💡 Tip: Before signing, ask if your ZIP code and chosen style are eligible for true next-day installation, and get written confirmation with your contract. If unavailable, request a realistic install date window to set expectations properly.
❓ “Are the materials used by either company actually durable long-term?”
Both companies offer name-brand flooring, but their approaches to quality assurance differ. Empire Today leans into technical specs and industry benchmarks—like the Abrasion Class (AC) rating system for laminates, and proprietary tech like WhisperHOME® noise-dampening wood. These tangible indicators offer measurable performance data, ideal for homeowners seeking durability.
National Floors Direct highlights manufacturer sourcing and health certifications, such as CRI (Carpet & Rug Institute) ratings and “Healthy Home Certified” labels. This appeals to customers focused on air quality and environmental safety, though quantitative performance data is less emphasized.
📊 Material Durability & Assurance
| 🔎 Attribute | 🧼 NFD | 🧱 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Metrics | ❌ Not widely disclosed | ✅ AC Ratings, impact testing |
| Certification Focus | ✅ CRI, Healthy Home | ✅ Manufacturer-backed durability claims |
| Proprietary Features | ❌ None listed | ✅ WhisperHOME®, QuietWalk padding |
| Moisture Resistance | Standard offerings | ✅ Select lines designed for high-moisture zones |
💡 Tip: For high-traffic areas, basements, or pet-heavy homes, ask about specific ratings like AC3–AC5 for laminate or water-resistance grading. Empire tends to offer more engineered solutions, while NFD favors brand-recognition over specs.
❓ “How do I protect myself legally if things go wrong with the install?”
Protection begins with clear, documented communication. Regardless of provider, insist on a detailed contract that includes:
- Scope of work (square footage, flooring type, padding, trim)
- All included services (e.g., furniture moving, old floor removal, cleanup)
- Cancellation clauses
- Warranty terms
- Contingency plan for delays
If working with National Floors Direct, pay extra attention to language around “free services” and installation timelines. Given the ongoing lawsuit alleging deceptive practices, any verbal promises must be confirmed in writing.
Empire, while not lawsuit-embroiled, still warrants vigilance. Delays and miscommunication do occur, so it’s wise to photograph your space pre-installation, retain all receipts, and save email or text exchanges for recordkeeping.
📊 Consumer Self-Protection Checklist
| 🛡️ Document | ✅ Purpose |
|---|---|
| Itemized Estimate | Confirm scope, eliminate vague pricing |
| Written Promises | Hold reps accountable to verbal claims |
| Install Timeline | Clarify rescheduling policies |
| Warranty Certificate | Proof of coverage terms |
| Post-Install Photos | Evidence for disputes, if needed |
💡 Tip: If any dispute arises, contact the company’s customer resolution department first, then escalate to the Better Business Bureau or state attorney general. In serious cases—especially involving fee deception—consult a consumer protection lawyer.
❓ “What happens if the flooring is defective months after installation?”
Responsibility for defects depends on the source of the issue—product vs. installation. If the flaw stems from manufacturing (like delamination, premature wear, or color fading), the manufacturer’s warranty typically applies. However, if the problem results from installation—such as poor subfloor prep, incorrect adhesive, or misaligned planks—installation warranties come into play.
Empire Today provides a 1-year limited labor warranty, and with their optional 5-year service plan, accidental damage, buckling, and even joint gaps are covered at no extra charge. National Floors Direct relies more heavily on manufacturer warranties and does not advertise any distinct labor guarantee, which can leave customers navigating disputes on their own.
📊 Post-Installation Issue Handling
| 🛠️ Issue Type | 🏢 National Floors Direct | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Defect | ✅ Manufacturer warranty applies | ✅ Manufacturer warranty applies |
| Installation Error | ⚠️ No explicit labor warranty | ✅ 1-Year workmanship warranty |
| Accidental Damage | ❌ Not covered | ✅ Covered with service plan |
| Timeline for Claim | Varies by brand | Typically 3–4 weeks for warranty resolution |
💡 Tip: Always document the problem with clear photos and written communication. If working with NFD, contact the product brand directly to initiate warranty claims. For Empire, start with customer service—they handle most warranty logistics in-house.
❓ “Are Empire’s exclusive products actually better or just rebranded?”
Empire Today markets several exclusive lines, including WhisperHOME® (sound-reducing hardwood), QuietWalk® underlayment, and proprietary carpet styles. These products are not available at retail stores, which means you won’t find online price comparisons. However, this doesn’t automatically mean lower quality.
Many exclusives are co-developed with major manufacturers, leveraging private specifications tailored to Empire’s customer base—especially multi-family homes and sound-sensitive spaces. For instance, WhisperHOME® uses layered core engineering to reduce footfall noise, making it ideal for upstairs installations.
📊 Empire Exclusive Product Profile
| 🌟 Product | 🔍 Key Feature | 🎯 Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| WhisperHOME® | Engineered core for noise control | Upstairs, condos, shared walls |
| QuietWalk® | High-density padding with moisture block | Laminate and vinyl installs |
| PetDefense® Carpet | Stain-resistant + tight weave | Pet-friendly homes |
| Performance Plus Tile | AC-rated for durability | Kitchens, high-traffic entries |
💡 Tip: Ask for product specification sheets and testing certifications (like AC ratings or sound attenuation scores). Empire’s exclusives often outperform off-the-shelf alternatives in specialized conditions—but always confirm the performance metrics match your needs.
❓ “Why does National Floors Direct have a better BBB rating but worse press?”
BBB ratings reflect a company’s responsiveness to complaints, not necessarily the severity or validity of those complaints. National Floors Direct holds an A+ rating primarily because they respond quickly and close complaints, regardless of resolution satisfaction. However, this does not account for the content of the grievances—some of which are serious enough to trigger legal action, like the ongoing lawsuit from New York City for deceptive business practices.
Empire Today, in contrast, has a much higher complaint volume, largely due to its national scale. While their rating fluctuates, the substance of complaints tends to focus on execution errors (e.g., rescheduling or quality control), not systemic fraud.
📊 BBB Rating vs. Real-World Risk
| 📈 Metric | 🏢 NFD | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| BBB Rating | A+ | Varies (often B+ or NR) |
| Complaint Volume (3 yrs) | 598 | 1,913 |
| Legal/Regulatory Action | ✅ FTC + NYC Lawsuit | ❌ None |
| Complaint Nature | Hidden fees, cancellation abuse | Delays, workmanship inconsistency |
| Response Speed | ✅ Fast | ✅ Fast |
💡 Tip: Don’t equate a high BBB grade with high ethical standards. Look at regulatory filings, attorney general actions, and consumer protection lawsuits for a clearer picture of real-world trustworthiness.
❓ “What’s the difference between hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate—and who offers what?”
- Solid Hardwood is milled from a single piece of wood. It’s natural, long-lasting, and can be sanded repeatedly—but sensitive to moisture.
- Engineered Wood has a real wood veneer on top of layered plywood. It’s more stable, handles moisture better, and is ideal for basements or humid climates.
- Laminate is a high-resolution photo of wood fused onto fiberboard with a protective wear layer—budget-friendly, durable, and scratch-resistant, but not “real wood.”
Both Empire Today and National Floors Direct offer all three, but Empire provides clearer categorization, AC ratings for laminate, and exclusive engineered wood products like WhisperHOME®. NFD highlights name-brand hardwoods from manufacturers like Bruce and Hartco, often focusing on material source over structural specs.
📊 Flooring Type Comparison
| 🪵 Flooring Type | 🔧 Durability | 💧 Moisture Resistance | 🛍️ Available From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Hardwood | 🔺 High (with care) | ❌ Low | NFD & Empire |
| Engineered Wood | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | NFD & Empire (WhisperHOME®) |
| Laminate | ✅ Very High | ⚠️ Moderate | NFD & Empire (rated styles) |
💡 Tip: For kitchens or below-grade installations, avoid solid hardwood. Choose engineered wood or high-grade laminate with AC4+ rating for best resilience.
❓ “Can either company handle custom installations—like staircases or diagonal layouts?”
Empire Today offers more structured flexibility for custom layouts, including staircase treads, patterned installations, and diagonal plank orientations. Their national installer base includes teams certified in complex layouts, and Empire’s in-home consultants are trained to measure for these projects during the first visit.
National Floors Direct may offer customization, but this is often dependent on the specific installer assigned and the local team’s capacity. Several reviews suggest that when jobs exceed standard layouts, NFD’s follow-through can be inconsistent—particularly if additional material or scheduling is required.
📊 Custom Installation Capability
| 📐 Feature | 🏢 NFD | 🏬 Empire Today |
|---|---|---|
| Staircase Carpeting | ✅ Available, but region-dependent | ✅ Included in scope |
| Diagonal/Pattern Layout | ⚠️ Limited by crew | ✅ Commonly offered |
| Custom Trim/Transitions | ⚠️ May incur unexpected charges | ✅ Covered in all-inclusive quote |
| Customer Support | Varies by local center | Centralized project coordination |
💡 Tip: If your design includes specialty angles or surfaces, ask for a consultant with layout experience, and request sample photos of similar projects from the same installer. Always confirm if extra fees apply.
