Guide To Obtaining Free And Low-Cost Vinyl Plank Flooring Samples

Vinyl plank flooring has become a popular choice among homeowners due to its durability, water resistance, and aesthetic appeal. When selecting new flooring for a home, obtaining samples before making a purchase decision is essential. This article explores how consumers can access free and low-cost vinyl plank flooring samples from leading retailers, the eligibility requirements, and how to effectively utilize these samples in the selection process.

Overview of Vinyl Plank Flooring Samples

Vinyl plank flooring samples provide homeowners with the opportunity to evaluate the appearance, texture, and quality of flooring options before committing to a full installation. These samples typically represent small sections of the actual flooring product, allowing consumers to see how the material looks in their space with existing lighting, furniture, and décor.

Retailers offer various methods for obtaining vinyl plank flooring samples, including free samples with purchase requirements, low-cost sample programs, and in-store availability. The cost of samples typically ranges from $4.99 to $15, with many retailers offering refunds or credits when customers proceed with a full flooring purchase.

Sample Programs by Major Retailers

Lumber Liquidators

Lumber Liquidators provides one of the most comprehensive sample programs for vinyl plank flooring. The company offers hundreds of flooring samples across various categories, with specific options for vinyl plank and waterproof flooring.

Sample Pricing: - First sample: $15 - Additional samples: $5 each - Samples are free at local stores

Special Offer: Lumber Liquidators refunds the full cost of samples when customers proceed with an order through their platform, effectively making the samples free for committed buyers.

Popular Vinyl Plank Flooring Options Available as Samples: - CoreLuxe 5mm w/pad Yorkshire Cottage Oak Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe XD 7mm w/pad Honey Mead Oak Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe XD 5mm w/pad Royal Hampton Hickory Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank - CoreLuxe XD 8mm w/pad Tobacco Road Acacia Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 5mm w/pad Gresham Teak Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 5mm Rustic Reclaimed Oak Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 5mm w/pad Cumberland Cherry Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 6mm w/pad Island Oak Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 6.5mm w/pad Luven Oak Waterproof Rigid Vinyl Plank Flooring - CoreLuxe 3mm Marathon Oak Waterproof Glue-Down Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

Twenty & Oak

Twenty & Oak specializes in vinyl plank, tile, and other flooring types, offering a sample program with multiple options for obtaining free samples.

Sample Pricing: - Standard samples: $5 each

Free Sample Opportunities: - Up to 5 free flooring samples when customers take the Floor Genius Quiz - Up to 5 free samples when customers connect with a dealer - Free samples with store code from local dealer

Geographic Restrictions: Twenty & Oak only ships samples to specific states: Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, or Washington D.C. Installation must be within these states to qualify for sample shipping.

Sample Features: - Samples are shipped for free - Samples are designed to be portable for comparison with other room elements like fabrics and cabinet colors

Shaw Floors

Shaw Floors offers a straightforward sample program for vinyl plank and other flooring types.

Sample Pricing: - Samples: $4.99 each - Shipping: Free

Sample Ordering Process: 1. Find a flooring style and select "Order Sample" 2. Add samples to cart 3. Checkout by creating an account or logging in 4. Submit order for shipment

Sample Evaluation Tips: Shaw Floors provides guidance on how to effectively evaluate samples once they arrive: - Place samples near existing finishes and furniture - Try samples in different areas and lighting conditions - Live with samples for a period before making a decision

Eligibility and Geographic Restrictions

When requesting vinyl plank flooring samples, consumers should be aware of various eligibility requirements and geographic restrictions:

1. Purchase Requirements:

   • Some retailers refund sample costs with a full purchase
   • Others offer free samples only with dealer connection or quiz completion

2. Geographic Limitations:

   • Twenty & Oak restricts sample shipments to specific states in the Southeastern USA and Washington D.C.
   • Other retailers like Lumber Liquidators and Shaw Floors appear to ship nationwide based on available information

3. Dealer Programs:

   • Some retailers require connecting with a local dealer to access certain free sample opportunities
   • Dealer store codes may be necessary to qualify for free samples

Sample Selection Process

When selecting vinyl plank flooring samples, consumers should consider the following approach:

1. Narrow Down Options:

   • Use online tools like the Floor Genius Quiz (Twenty & Oak) to identify potential flooring options
   • Browse by flooring type, brand, color, and style
   • Consider specific needs like waterproof requirements, thickness, and installation method

2. Select Sample Varieties:

   • Choose samples that represent different color families
   • Consider various textures and finishes
   • Include samples with different installation methods if applicable

3. Order Samples:

   • Add selected samples to cart
   • Provide accurate shipping information
   • Apply any discount codes or special offers
   • Complete checkout process

4. Sample Evaluation:

   • Once samples arrive, evaluate them in different lighting conditions
   • Compare samples with existing room elements
   • Test durability by applying minor pressure
   • Consider maintenance requirements for each option

Using Samples Effectively

To maximize the value of vinyl plank flooring samples, homeowners should:

1. Visualize the Installation:

   • Place samples in the actual installation area
   • View them from different angles and distances
   • Evaluate how they look with both natural and artificial lighting

2. Compare with Existing Elements:

   • Place samples near furniture, cabinets, and wall colors
   • Assess how the flooring coordinates with other design elements
   • Consider how the flooring will look throughout the day as lighting changes

3. Test Performance:

   • Apply minor pressure to evaluate durability
   • Check how easily dirt and debris would be visible
   • Assess the texture underfoot

4. Make a Confident Decision:

   • Live with samples for several days
   • Consult with family members or design professionals
   • Consider long-term maintenance and care requirements

Conclusion

Vinyl plank flooring samples provide an invaluable resource for homeowners making flooring decisions. While most retailers charge a nominal fee for samples (typically $4.99 to $15), many offer refunds or credits when customers proceed with a purchase. Some retailers like Twenty & Oak provide multiple pathways to free samples through quizzes, dealer connections, or store codes.

When selecting samples, consumers should consider various colors, textures, and installation methods. Effective evaluation involves placing samples in the actual installation space and comparing them with existing room elements under different lighting conditions. By carefully utilizing samples, homeowners can make confident flooring decisions that enhance their living spaces for years to come.

Sources

1. Lumber Liquidators Sample Program
2. Twenty & Oak Sample Program
3. Shaw Floors Sample Ordering