I'm thinking about redesigning the flooring in my home office and weighing the option of doing it myself versus hiring a professional. I found a flooring contractor through a friend, but I've already chosen the flooring I want, which has a clean, muted look akin to polished concrete but softer. I'm curious if it's common for homeowners to bring their own flooring materials and just pay for the installation. Do most contractors expect you to buy materials through them? Has anyone tried this approach of DIY shopping with pro installation, and how did it turn out?
3 Answers
If your contractor isn't open to your materials, don't hesitate to get another quote. There are plenty out there who will be. Just be sure to check their references and have a solid contract in place before proceeding!
It's best to ask your contractor directly about their policies. I've found opinions vary widely. Personally, I prefer letting the contractor handle the ordering because they often have established relationships with suppliers. If something goes wrong, it’s simpler for them to correct it. However, some homeowners like to buy their materials for the sake of choice and potentially saving money. Just keep in mind that if you choose your own, any mistakes could fall on you if parts arrive wrong or damage happens.
You can buy the flooring you want, but it's smart to consult your contractor about other materials like thinset or grout. They often have preferences for quality reasons, and if you bring in something they don’t want to install, it could cause issues later. I had a similar experience; ended up returning what I bought because my contractor had specific requirements. Also, make sure to buy a little extra to cover any mistakes that could happen on-site!
Great tip! And remember, if you buy materials yourself, it's on you if they don’t match or if additional product is needed later.
Exactly! Larger companies usually stick to their own supply chain, but smaller ones might be more flexible.