- A low quote often just leaves things out: removal, levelling, trim, stairs, moving furniture.
- Compare line by line, not by the total.
- Check the exact product, the underlay and the waste allowance.
- Ask what happens if they find a problem under the old floor.
We see it every week: someone has two quotes and one is way lower. Usually the cheaper one isn't cheaper. It's just shorter.
What a complete quote covers
| Line item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Product (brand, line, colour) | "Vinyl plank" alone could mean anything |
| Square footage + waste | Different layouts need different overage |
| Underlay | Type and whether it's included |
| Removal and disposal of old floor | Often missing from low quotes |
| Subfloor prep / levelling | The biggest surprise cost if it's not mentioned |
| Transitions and thresholds | Every doorway and floor change |
| Baseboards / quarter round | Reuse, replace, paint? Trim guide |
| Stairs | Usually priced separately per step |
| Moving furniture and appliances | Who does it, and is the fridge or piano included |
| Door trimming | Thicker floors can catch doors |
| Workmanship warranty | How long, and what it covers |
Questions to ask both companies
- Is levelling included, and what happens if the floor needs more than expected?
- Who installs? Your own crew, or a sub?
- Is the product exactly the same? Same line, same wear layer, same thickness?
- When do you need a deposit, and how much?
- What's your timeline, and what can delay it?
Red flags
- No product name, just "laminate" or "LVP."
- A big cash discount for skipping paperwork.
- No mention of the subfloor at all on a concrete or older home.
- Pressure to sign today.
Want a second opinion on a quote you already have? Send it to us. We'll tell you honestly if it looks fair.
Common questions
Why are flooring quotes so different?
Mostly because they include different things. Removal, levelling, trim, stairs, transitions and furniture moving are often left out of lower quotes. Compare line by line.
What should be included in a flooring installation quote?
The exact product, square footage with waste, underlay, removal and disposal, subfloor preparation, transitions, baseboards or trim, stairs if any, furniture moving and the workmanship warranty.
How much extra flooring should be ordered for waste?
Commonly around 5 to 10 percent for straight layouts and more for diagonal or herringbone patterns. Your installer should state the allowance on the quote.
Who's writing this: Rose and Thorn Flooring is a flooring company in Surrey, BC. We install floors for a living, so yes, we'd love to do yours. But nobody pays us to say nice things about a product, and we don't earn commission from any brand. If something here is wrong or out of date, text us at 604-716-4160 and we'll fix it.