Empiretoday.com Review

Based on looking at the website EmpireToday.com, the platform appears to be a legitimate service offering in-home flooring estimates and installation.

While the overall presentation is professional and user-friendly, a deeper dive into the financing options is warranted, as many conventional financing models involve interest, which is impermissible in Islam.

The website clearly outlines its process, from scheduling an estimate to professional installation, and features numerous positive customer reviews.

However, the heavy emphasis on “Floors Now, Pay Over Time” with “approved credit” immediately flags a concern for those seeking ethically compliant transactions.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate and professional.
Service Model: In-home consultations, extensive product samples, all-inclusive pricing, professional installation.
Customer Reviews: Prominently features “25,000+ 5-star reviews.”
Pricing Transparency: Claims “All-Inclusive Price Estimate, No Hidden Fees,” provided upfront.
Financing Options: Offers “Floors Now, Pay Over Time” with approved credit, which likely involves interest riba. This is a significant concern for ethical consumers.
Ethical Concerns: The prominent financing option, while common in Western markets, conflicts with Islamic financial principles due to the probability of interest-based credit.

The platform provides a comprehensive service for home flooring, aiming for convenience and customer satisfaction.

They highlight a “low-price guarantee” and offer various flooring types like wood-look, carpet, stone-look, laminate, hardwood, vinyl, and tile.

The “See a Floor in Your Room” visualizer is a practical feature for potential customers.

However, the core issue for a discerning consumer from an Islamic perspective revolves around the financing.

While the service of installing floors itself is permissible, the method of payment through interest-bearing credit is not.

It’s crucial for individuals to explore cash payment or truly interest-free alternatives if they consider using such a service.

Without explicit disclosure of a Sharia-compliant financing option, the reliance on conventional credit makes it problematic for Muslims.

Here are some alternatives for home improvement needs that generally offer ethical payment methods, prioritizing upfront payment or Sharia-compliant financing where available:

Home Depot: A major home improvement retailer offering a vast selection of flooring materials. They provide installation services, but customers can also purchase materials outright and arrange for independent, cash-paid installers, thus avoiding interest.
Lowe’s: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s offers a wide array of flooring products and installation services. Again, the key is to purchase materials and services without resorting to interest-bearing credit.
Floor & Decor: Specializes specifically in hard surface flooring, offering a broad range of options at competitive prices. They often cater to DIYers and contractors, making it easier to buy materials directly and manage installation separately.
Local Independent Flooring Stores: Many local businesses operate on a cash-and-carry or upfront payment model for materials, and their installation services can often be paid for directly, avoiding interest-based credit. Searching for “Local Flooring Companies Near Me” can yield ethical options.
Wayfair: Primarily an online retailer, Wayfair offers a wide selection of flooring products. While they don’t typically offer installation, this allows customers to purchase materials upfront and then hire independent installers, ensuring ethical transactions.
Costco: Costco offers flooring services through third-party providers, often with competitive pricing for members. Customers can inquire about upfront payment options to bypass conventional financing.
Lumber Liquidators LL Flooring: Specializing in hardwood and other hard-surface flooring, LL Flooring allows customers to purchase materials directly. This provides flexibility to pay cash and arrange for independent installation.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Empiretoday.com Review & First Look

Based on our initial examination, Empiretoday.com presents itself as a robust and well-established online presence for a major flooring service provider.

The website is clean, professionally designed, and highly intuitive, immediately guiding visitors through the core steps of their service model.

From the prominent “Schedule In-Home Appointment” call to action to the visual aids showcasing different flooring types, the user experience is clearly prioritized.

The site’s navigation, including links for “Reviews,” “Financing,” “Locations,” and “Help,” suggests a transparent operation eager to provide comprehensive information.

What Catches the Eye Immediately?

The most striking features upon landing on EmpireToday.com are the clear value propositions.

“Limited Time – June Savings Event – Up to 40% off!”: This immediate promotional banner aims to capture attention and create a sense of urgency.
“Schedule a FREE In-Home Estimate”: This is the primary call to action, repeated multiple times, emphasizing convenience and no upfront cost for consultation.
“25,000+ 5-star reviews”: A significant number, displayed prominently, to build trust and credibility through social proof.
“We’ll beat any competitive offer with our low-price guarantee”: This promise is a powerful incentive, aiming to alleviate price concerns and assure customers of competitive rates.

The “How Empire Today® Makes it Easy” Process

The website articulates a straightforward, three-step process for acquiring new flooring:

Schedule a Free Estimate: Emphasizes convenience, offering same-day appointments.
In-Home Consultation: A professional brings samples, helps with selection, measures rooms, and provides an “All-Inclusive Price Estimate.”
Professional Installation: Installers manage furniture, old floor removal, new floor installation, and cleanup. This end-to-end service model is designed to simplify the process for the homeowner.

Empiretoday.com Concerns: The Financing Aspect

While the service model for flooring installation appears streamlined and customer-friendly, a critical point of concern for ethical consumers, particularly from an Islamic perspective, is the prominently featured financing option.

The website repeatedly highlights “Floors Now, Pay Over Time” with “Convenient monthly payments for your budget” and explicitly states “With approved credit.” This is a classic indication of conventional interest-based financing, often referred to as ‘riba’ in Islamic jurisprudence, which is strictly prohibited.

Understanding Riba in Conventional Financing

Riba, often translated as ‘usury’ or ‘interest,’ refers to any predetermined increment over the principal amount of a loan.

In Islamic finance, money is considered a medium of exchange, not a commodity to be traded for profit. Sourgum.com Review

Therefore, charging or paying interest on loans is prohibited because it is seen as an exploitative practice that creates wealth without genuine productive activity or risk-sharing.

Hidden Costs: While presented as “convenient,” these financing options invariably come with interest rates, late payment fees, and other charges that increase the total cost of the flooring project beyond the initial “all-inclusive price.”
Debt Accumulation: Encouraging consumers to “pay over time” through credit can lead to debt accumulation, especially if not managed carefully, which is generally discouraged in Islam unless absolutely necessary and free from interest.
Lack of Sharia-Compliant Alternatives: The website does not indicate any Sharia-compliant financing options, such as Murabaha cost-plus financing or Ijarah leasing, which would allow for ethical deferred payments. This absence makes the primary financing offer problematic for Muslim consumers.

Why Conventional Financing is Problematic

The prohibition of riba in Islam is a foundational principle aimed at promoting economic justice and stability.

Unfairness: Interest is viewed as an unfair gain for the lender at the borrower’s expense, especially during times of financial hardship.
Exploitation: It can lead to the exploitation of those in need, as they are forced to pay more than the principal amount.
Economic Inequality: Interest-based systems can exacerbate economic inequality, concentrating wealth in the hands of a few.
Moral Hazard: It encourages speculative activities rather than productive investments in the real economy.

For a Muslim consumer, engaging in interest-based transactions is a serious matter.

It’s not merely a financial choice but a religious imperative.

Therefore, while Empire Today’s services for flooring are permissible, the financing mechanism presented on their website makes direct engagement with their credit offers incompatible with Islamic principles.

Consumers are advised to pay upfront or seek alternative services that offer Sharia-compliant payment solutions.

Empiretoday.com Customer Experience & Reviews

Empire Today heavily leverages customer feedback to build trust, prominently displaying “25,000+ 5-star reviews” on its homepage.

This is a common and effective strategy for service-based businesses to demonstrate credibility and attract new clients.

The website also provides a dedicated “Reviews” section, accessible directly from the main navigation, encouraging visitors to delve deeper into customer testimonials.

What the Website Highlights

The featured testimonial on the homepage from Renee H. Paztrade.com Review

In Kansas City provides a concise narrative of a positive experience:

Smooth, Professional, and Fast Process: Highlighting efficiency and professionalism from start to finish.
Knowledgeable Sales Rep: The consultant brought samples, explained differences, and helped select the right floors without high-pressure tactics. This speaks to a customer-centric approach.
Top-Notch Installers: Praise for the installation team, reinforcing the quality of the service delivery.

These curated testimonials aim to paint a picture of consistent satisfaction.

External Review Landscape

While the website itself showcases overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s prudent to cross-reference with independent review platforms to get a more balanced perspective.

Generally, larger companies like Empire Today tend to have a mixed bag of reviews across the web, reflecting their extensive customer base and the inherent challenges in delivering perfect service every time.

Better Business Bureau BBB: Empire Today is accredited by the BBB, which is a positive sign for dispute resolution and consumer trust. Their BBB profile typically shows a mix of positive and negative reviews, often with the company responding to complaints, indicating active customer service engagement. As of recent checks, they generally hold a good rating, often an A or A+
Trustpilot/Yelp/Google Reviews: These platforms often host a broader spectrum of customer experiences. While many customers report satisfaction similar to the testimonials on Empire Today’s site—praising convenience, speed, and professionalism—there are also common complaints. These often revolve around:
- Pricing Discrepancies: Some customers report that the “all-inclusive” price was higher than expected or that certain charges weren’t fully transparent until the estimate.
- Installation Issues: While many praise installers, some report delays, minor damage, or issues with the quality of installation that required follow-up.
- Sales Pressure: Despite Renee H.’s experience, some reviews mention feeling pressured during the sales consultation to make a quick decision.
- Financing Terms: Complaints about the financing terms, including high-interest rates or confusion about promotional periods, are also common, reinforcing the ethical concerns raised earlier.

The Takeaway on Reviews

The presence of a high volume of positive reviews on their own site is encouraging, but a holistic view from independent platforms is always recommended.

For potential customers, especially those sensitive to ethical financial practices, it’s wise to scrutinize not just the service quality, but also the clarity and terms of any financing options, as this is where some common friction points arise.

The company’s responsiveness to complaints on platforms like the BBB can be a good indicator of their commitment to customer satisfaction even when issues arise.

Empiretoday.com Product Offerings

Empire Today positions itself as a comprehensive flooring solution provider, offering a variety of materials to suit different aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

The website categorizes its offerings clearly, allowing visitors to explore options based on type, ensuring a streamlined browsing experience.

Diverse Flooring Categories

The main categories featured on Empiretoday.com include: Muslimblocks.com Review

WOOD-LOOK FLOORING: This broadly encompasses laminate, luxury vinyl plank LVP, and engineered hardwood that mimic the appearance of traditional hardwood floors. These are popular for their durability, water resistance, and cost-effectiveness compared to solid hardwood.
CARPET: Empire Today offers a range of carpet styles, including plush, frieze, berber, and pattern carpets. Carpet remains a popular choice for bedrooms and living areas due to its warmth, sound absorption, and comfort.
STONE-LOOK FLOORING: This category typically includes luxury vinyl tile LVT and ceramic or porcelain tiles that replicate the look of natural stone. These options are favored for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas due to their water resistance and durability.
LAMINATE: A cost-effective and durable option, laminate flooring is known for its resistance to scratches and dents, making it suitable for active households.
HARDWOOD: While “wood-look” covers alternatives, the specific “Hardwood” category likely refers to solid hardwood and engineered hardwood, offering classic beauty and significant home value.
VINYL: This includes both sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl products LVP and LVT, known for their versatility, water resistance, and ease of maintenance.
TILE: This likely refers to ceramic and porcelain tiles, which are highly durable, water-resistant, and ideal for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

Unique Selling Propositions Related to Products

Aqua Defense® Waterproof Flooring: A specific product line highlighted for its superior water resistance, appealing to customers concerned about spills and moisture in certain areas of their homes. This is a crucial feature for modern living spaces.
“See a Floor in Your Room” Visualizer: This interactive tool is a significant asset. It allows customers to upload a photo of their own room and “try on” different flooring styles virtually. This feature greatly enhances the shopping experience, helping customers visualize the end result before committing, reducing uncertainty, and aiding in decision-making.

Empire Today’s product portfolio appears comprehensive, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets within the flooring market.

The emphasis on practical features like waterproofing and visual tools like the room visualizer enhances the overall customer journey.

Empiretoday.com Locations & Reach

Empire Today boasts a widespread presence across the United States, positioning itself as a national leader in the flooring industry.

Their “Locations” page on EmpireToday.com is a critical resource for potential customers to verify service availability in their specific area.

National Footprint and Service Areas

While the website doesn’t explicitly list every single city or state on its homepage, the implied scale of operations and the ability to input a zip code strongly suggest a broad national reach.

Typically, large service providers like Empire Today cover major metropolitan areas and surrounding regions across many states.

Zip Code Finder: The most immediate way to check service availability is through the prominent “Your Zip Code” input field at the top of the homepage. This personalized approach quickly confirms if a user is within their service radius. For example, inputting “31130” on the homepage indicates service for that specific Georgia zip code.
Dedicated Locations Page: The “Locations” link in the main navigation menu leads to a page designed to help users find service in their area. This page likely includes a more detailed search function, perhaps by state or city, or a more expansive map view of their operational hubs.

Implications of Broad Geographic Coverage

A wide geographic reach offers several advantages to the consumer:

Consistency of Service: National companies often strive for standardized service protocols, meaning customers in different states can expect a similar level of professionalism and service quality.
Supply Chain Efficiency: A larger network can lead to more efficient supply chains, potentially offering a wider selection of products and better availability of popular styles.
Brand Recognition & Trust: Operating nationally builds brand recognition and can instill a greater sense of trust, as the company has a proven track record across diverse markets.

Localized Operations

Despite its national scale, the service delivery itself is highly localized: Wheelpartsdirect.com Review

In-Home Estimates: The core of Empire Today’s model relies on local flooring professionals conducting in-home consultations, bringing samples directly to the customer’s home. This necessitates a local network of sales representatives.
Professional Installation by Independent Contractors: The website states, “Installation provided by independent contractors.” This means that while Empire Today coordinates the projects, the actual installation work is carried out by local, vetted professionals. This model allows them to scale quickly and efficiently across different regions, leveraging local talent and expertise. This structure is common in the home services industry and allows for flexibility and responsiveness to local demand.

For any specific user, the most direct way to confirm Empire Today’s presence and service capabilities in their precise location is to use the zip code checker or visit the dedicated “Locations” page on their website.

This ensures that the promise of convenient, next-day installation where available for in-stock items is truly applicable to their area.

Empiretoday.com Warranties & Product Care

Empire Today addresses critical post-installation considerations by mentioning “warranties” and implying “product care” through their “Product Care” section though not directly linked on the homepage, it’s a standard offering for flooring companies. These aspects are crucial for customer peace of mind and long-term satisfaction.

Understanding Warranties

While the specific details of Empire Today’s warranties are not exhaustively laid out on the homepage, the mention of “warranties” suggests a commitment to product quality and installation integrity.

Typically, flooring warranties come in two main categories:

Manufacturer Warranties: These cover the flooring material itself, protecting against manufacturing defects, wear, stains, or fading for a specified period e.g., 10, 20, 25 years, or even lifetime, depending on the product type and quality. These warranties are provided by the original flooring manufacturer.
Installation Warranties: These cover the workmanship of the installation, ensuring that the flooring was installed correctly and free from defects arising from the installation process. Empire Today, as the service provider, would typically back this type of warranty. The duration for installation warranties can vary but often ranges from 1 to 5 years.

Key things to look for in full warranty details which would be found on a dedicated “Warranties” page or during the consultation:

Coverage Specifics: What exactly is covered e.g., wear layer, structural integrity, stain resistance? What voids the warranty e.g., improper cleaning, water damage, non-approved repairs?
Duration: How long does the warranty last for each type of coverage?
Claim Process: What steps must a customer take to file a warranty claim?
Limitations and Exclusions: Are there any conditions or scenarios where the warranty does not apply?

For consumers, understanding these details before purchase is paramount to avoid future disappointments.

Product Care Recommendations

Maintaining the longevity and appearance of new flooring is vital, and reputable companies provide guidance on product care.

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage text, a full service provider like Empire Today would typically offer:

Cleaning Guidelines: Specific instructions on how to clean different types of flooring e.g., hardwood, carpet, vinyl, laminate to prevent damage and maintain their finish. This includes recommended cleaning products, methods, and frequency.
Maintenance Tips: Advice on protecting floors from scratches, dents, and spills, such as using furniture pads, placing mats at entryways, and promptly cleaning up spills.
Humidity Control: For natural products like hardwood, recommendations on maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels to prevent warping or gapping.
Repair Information: Guidance on how to address minor damage or when to seek professional repair.

Empire Today’s commitment to “product care” aligns with their focus on customer satisfaction beyond the initial installation. Handleshopcouture.com Review

Accessing detailed product care guides is crucial for customers to maximize the lifespan of their new floors and ensure they remain aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

This information is usually available on their website, perhaps under a “Product Care” or “Customer Service” section, or provided during the post-installation handover.

Empiretoday.com Alternatives: Ethical Flooring Solutions

Given the ethical concerns surrounding Empire Today’s prominent interest-based financing options, it’s crucial for consumers, especially those adhering to Islamic financial principles, to explore alternative ways to acquire and install flooring.

The goal is to achieve your home improvement without engaging in transactions that involve riba interest. This often means prioritizing upfront payment or finding providers with truly Sharia-compliant financing.

Here’s a breakdown of ethical alternatives and strategies:

1. Cash Payment for Materials & Separate Installation

This is the most straightforward and universally ethical approach.

How it works: You purchase the flooring materials carpet, hardwood, tile, etc. directly from a retailer with cash or a debit card. Then, you hire an independent contractor to perform the installation, paying them separately, also with cash or debit.
Pros:
- 100% Interest-Free: No debt, no interest, complete financial clarity.
- Greater Control: You choose your materials and your installer independently.
- Potential Savings: You might find better deals on materials from wholesale suppliers or sales, and negotiate installation costs directly.
Cons:
- Requires Upfront Capital: You need the full amount ready for both materials and labor.
- More Coordination: You’re responsible for managing two separate entities material supplier and installer.
Recommended Retailers for materials:
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Floor & Decor
- LL Flooring Lumber Liquidators
- Wayfair for online material purchase
Finding Installers: Look for independent, highly-rated local flooring installers. Use platforms like Yelp, Angi formerly Angie’s List, or ask for recommendations from friends and family. Always get multiple quotes and verify licenses and insurance.

2. Sharia-Compliant Financing Murabaha/Ijarah

While rare for direct flooring services, some Islamic financial institutions offer products for larger home improvements.

How it works: An Islamic bank or financial institution purchases the flooring materials and/or services on your behalf and then sells them to you at a pre-agreed profit margin, allowing you to pay in installments without interest. Or, they lease the items to you with an option to purchase.
- Ethically Compliant: Adheres strictly to Islamic financial principles.
- Structured Payments: Allows for deferred payments without the burden of riba.
- Limited Availability: These options are not widely available for every type of home service in all regions.
- Potentially More Bureaucracy: The process can be more involved than conventional loans.
Recommended: Research local Islamic banks or credit unions, or institutions like Guidance Residential primarily for mortgages but some may have broader home improvement options.

3. DIY Do-It-Yourself or Partial DIY

For those with the time and skill, installing certain types of flooring can be a viable option.

How it works: You purchase the materials and perform the installation yourself, or handle simpler parts like old floor removal and cleanup, then hire a professional for the technical installation.
- Cost Savings: Significant savings on labor costs.
- Full Control: You are in complete control of the project.
- Time & Effort: Can be very time-consuming and physically demanding.
- Skill Required: Mistakes can be costly if you lack the necessary skills.
- Warranty Concerns: DIY installation may void certain manufacturer warranties if not done to spec.
Recommended Resources: Online tutorials YouTube, home improvement books, and classes offered by hardware stores.

By opting for these alternatives, individuals can ensure their home improvement projects align with their ethical and religious convictions, avoiding the pitfalls of interest-based financial transactions. Fudoshin.co Review

FAQ

What is EmpireToday.com?

EmpireToday.com is the official website for Empire Today, a large national flooring company in the United States that offers in-home sales consultations and professional installation of various flooring types, including carpet, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile.

How does Empire Today’s service work?

Empire Today’s service typically involves three steps: first, scheduling a free in-home estimate.

Second, a flooring professional conducting an in-home consultation with samples and providing an all-inclusive price.

And third, professional installation of the chosen flooring.

Are Empire Today’s prices competitive?

Empire Today claims to offer a “low-price guarantee,” stating they will beat any competitive offer for substantially the same product and installation, provided a written estimate from a licensed competitor.

Does Empire Today offer financing options?

Yes, Empire Today prominently advertises “Floors Now, Pay Over Time” options with “convenient monthly payments” subject to approved credit.

These are typically conventional interest-based financing plans.

Is Empire Today’s financing Sharia-compliant?

No, based on the description of “Floors Now, Pay Over Time” with “approved credit,” their financing options are generally conventional and likely involve interest riba, which is not permissible in Islam.

What types of flooring does Empire Today offer?

Empire Today offers a wide range of flooring products, including carpet plush, frieze, berber, pattern, wood-look flooring laminate, vinyl plank, engineered hardwood, stone-look flooring vinyl tile, ceramic/porcelain, and specialized options like Aqua Defense® waterproof flooring.

Can I see how the flooring will look in my room before buying?

Yes, EmpireToday.com features an interactive “See a Floor in Your Room” tool that allows users to upload a photo of their own room and virtually visualize different flooring styles. Fanssio.com Review

How do I schedule an in-home estimate with Empire Today?

You can schedule a free in-home estimate directly on their website by clicking the “Schedule a Free Estimate” button or by calling their advertised phone numbers.

Does Empire Today provide same-day appointments?

Yes, the website mentions that same-day appointments for in-home estimates may be available depending on your location and scheduling availability.

Who performs the installation for Empire Today?

Installations are performed by professional installers, described as “independent contractors,” who handle furniture moving, old floor removal, new floor installation, and cleanup.

Does Empire Today offer commercial flooring services?

Yes, Empire Today states they serve businesses of all sizes, from corporate and healthcare facilities to small businesses and property management groups, offering commercial flooring solutions.

What is the “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” from Empire Today?

The “All-Inclusive Price Estimate” means the quoted price includes common up-charged items required for flooring installation, such as product cost, measuring, professional installation, padding/underlayment, furniture moving, haul away of old flooring, thresholds/transitions, and cleanup.

How long does installation typically take?

Empire Today advertises that professional installation can be as soon as “Next Day” for in-stock carpet and flooring styles in select areas, though this excludes floor preparation.

Is Empire Today accredited by the Better Business Bureau BBB?

Empire Today is generally accredited by the Better Business Bureau BBB and typically holds a good rating, reflecting their commitment to responding to customer complaints.

What are common complaints about Empire Today?

Common complaints found on external review sites often relate to pricing discrepancies, perceived sales pressure during consultations, and issues with installation scheduling or quality.

How can I find Empire Today locations near me?

You can find Empire Today locations or check service availability by entering your zip code on their homepage or visiting their dedicated “Locations” page on EmpireToday.com.

What should I do if I want to purchase flooring ethically without interest?

To purchase flooring ethically, consider paying for materials and installation upfront with cash or a debit card. Tickblaze.com Review

Alternatively, explore Sharia-compliant financing options from Islamic financial institutions, though these may be less common for direct home services.

Does Empire Today offer warranties on their products or installation?

Yes, the website mentions “warranties,” indicating that they provide coverage for the flooring products manufacturer warranties and likely also for the quality of their installation services.

Specific details would be provided during the consultation.

How do I care for my new flooring from Empire Today?

While not detailed on the homepage, reputable flooring companies like Empire Today typically provide product care guidelines on their website or during the post-installation process, covering cleaning instructions, maintenance tips, and protection advice for various flooring types.

Can I cancel my Empire Today appointment?

Yes, you can typically cancel or reschedule an Empire Today appointment by contacting their customer service via phone or through their website, as per their terms and conditions.