It’s budget season, and if you’re like most property managers, you’re knee-deep in flooring bids trying to figure out the best deal for your multi-family flooring solutions. But here’s the thing—it’s about way more than just the number at the bottom of the page.
Let’s break down what you should really be looking for when comparing bids, so you avoid headaches later and get long-lasting value from your carpet installation or vinyl replacement.
1. Is Padding Included?
Padding is your carpet’s best friend—it keeps it looking fresh and feeling plush for longer. The Cushion Council (yep, that’s a thing!) says carpets without proper padding lose about 19.3% of their thickness, while carpets with good padding only lose around 5-10%. That’s a huge difference when it comes to wear, comfort, and how often you’ll need to replace it.
When reviewing bids, make sure true-rated padding is included—not the cheap, flimsy stuff that won’t last. At 1UP Floors, we only use high-quality padding because we know you want your carpet installation to last. We’re the go-to for budget-friendly flooring solutions in Seattle, Tacoma, and across the Puget Sound area.
2. Are Transitions Covered?
Let’s talk about transitions—those little pieces where your carpet meets vinyl or tile. If they’re not done right (or worse, not included in the bid), you’ll either pay extra later or end up with reused, bent-up strips that ruin the look of your new floor.
At 1UP Floors, we include all transitions in our pricing from the start, so everything looks seamless. Whether you’re going for a vinyl replacement or carpet installation, you won’t have to worry about hidden fees or ugly surprises. And yes, that includes next-day installation.
3. Appliance and Toilet Removal: Who’s Handling It?
Picture this: your installation crew shows up, but they won’t move the appliances or toilets. Now it’s your problem. Sound familiar? It’s one of those hidden surprises some contractors like to leave out of the bid.
At 1UP Floors, we’ve got you covered. We’ll move appliances, remove toilets (jumbo wax rings included), and handle all the heavy lifting. Our service is all-in, so you can focus on running your properties while we handle the install. That’s why Seattle property managers trust us for multi-family flooring solutions.
4. What About Disposal Fees?
Here’s another sneaky cost: disposal fees. Some companies leave these out of the initial bid, hitting you with an extra charge once the project’s already underway. Not cool.
At 1UP Floors, we include all disposal fees upfront. No hidden costs, no surprise fees—just transparent pricing from day one. Whether you’re replacing carpet or upgrading to vinyl, you know exactly what you’re paying for.
5. Check the Warranty
Alright, let’s talk warranties. Most companies offer a standard one-year warranty, but here’s the catch: by the time your resident’s 12-15 month lease is up, that warranty is probably expired. So if an installation issue isn’t discovered until after they move out—tough luck.
That’s why 1UP Floors offers a 3-year “Make it Right” warranty. We don’t leave you relying on your resident to spot problems early. If we make a mistake, we’ll fix it—whether it’s during the lease or after they move out. And if the resident does notice an issue while living there, we’ll not only repair it, but also compensate them (think gift cards or rent discounts) for any inconvenience. We’re here to protect your investment, not just for a year, but for the long haul.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right flooring bid isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about making sure you’re covered from all angles. From true-rated padding and seamless transitions to full-service appliance removal and a 3-year warranty that actually aligns with your leasing cycles, you need more than just a bargain. You need long-term value.
At 1UP Floors, we provide multi-family flooring solutions with next-day installation, transparent pricing, and a warranty that outlasts most leases. Ready for a flooring partner you can trust? Get a transparent, all-inclusive bid from 1UP Floors today.
