Buying New Carpet

I'm usually asking questions in this forum about how to do something myself, but I draw the limit when it comes to installing carpet. We are putting our house on the market, so we are looking at buying something that is relatively inexpensive but looks good. In your opinion, is it better to go to a big box store and use their contracted installers, not knowing how good they will be, or go to a smaller family business? We've had some difficulty with contracted installers from the big box stores where we have bought appliances.
I just want someone who does a good job, and isn't going to make a mess, or break things as they install. Your thoughts?

 

I would go small local. You may get the exact same people as the big box (if they have a contract), but the big box pays very low, so the installer will have to add charges (new tack strips, furniture moving, etc) or rush through the job to be able to make any real money. Same for the national flooring chains.

You may pay more at a local independent, but I think you will have a better experience overall and be more satisfied in the end.

 

I agree. The big box stores pay their installers poorly. Empire is the worst. Installers bid on every job there. Low bidder gets it, no matter their experience. Most local stores use the same guys day after day. They don't get paid until the customer is happy.

 

Thanks Vic, I appreciate the input!

 

In my experience the local dealers (be it carpet, cabinets, etc...) very often are the same or maybe less expensive than the big box stores. When I bought my kitchen cabinets which I installed myself, the big box stores where not very helpful about section or help concerning installation. Where as my small local kitchen and bath contractor was not only willing to sell me quality cabinets but also suggested installation hints and came out to check my measurements. The only thing they would not do is provide the "free" promo gift such as a free microwave with my purchase.