When choosing new flooring, most homeowners eventually face the same question: Should I shop at a dedicated flooring retailer like Baker Bros or go with a big box store? While both options offer flooring products, the experience, expertise, and quality you receive can be dramatically different.

With 80+ years of experience, Baker Bros has built a reputation as Arizona’s #1 flooring retailer and the largest flooring retailer in the state, offering a level of service and product depth big box chains simply can’t match. From premium brands like Karastan, CALI, Mannington, Daltile, Kardean, and Fabrica to expert guidance on choosing the best flooring, Baker Bros delivers a more personalized, informed, and reliable flooring experience. They also provide full commercial flooring services, giving them a broader understanding of installation standards and performance needs across different environments.

Before you make your decision, let’s dive into what truly sets Baker Bros apart.

Key Takeaways

• Baker Bros offers higher-quality flooring options curated by specialists—not general inventory buyers.
  
• Big box stores focus on volume and price; Baker Bros focuses on value, design, long-term flooring performance and expert installation.
  
• Flooring experts guide you through vinyl plank flooring, hardwood, carpet, tile, and the best waterproof flooring for your home.
  
• Baker Bros carries exclusive brands and the largest collection of area rugs in Arizona.
  
• Personalized service, accurate measurements, and expert installers reduce long-term costs and mistakes.

Why Homeowners Prefer Baker Bros Over Big Box Stores

1. Flooring Expertise You Can Trust

Big box stores stock everything from lumber to lighting, but flooring isn’t their specialty. Employees often rotate departments, making it difficult to find a flooring expert when you need one.

Baker Bros, on the other hand, specializes solely in flooring options. Their team is trained extensively in product performance, water resistance, installation needs, and design compatibility. Whether you're comparing vinyl plank flooring vs. tile or need guidance on selecting the best child and pet-friendly flooring, you're speaking with someone who understands the intricacies.

2. Higher Quality Brands and Product Selection

Big box stores often rely on private-label products or budget-friendly imports designed for high volume rather than longevity. This means limited choices, inconsistent wear layers, and fewer stain- or water-resistant options.

Baker Bros provides access to premium flooring brands known for durability and performance:

• Karastan – renowned for luxury carpeting and handcrafted rugs
  
• CALI – a leader in sustainable hardwood and bamboo flooring
  
• Mannington – trusted vinyl plank flooring and sheet vinyl
  
• Daltile – top-tier tile and stone materials
  
• Karndean – high-end waterproof vinyl plank flooring

Not only does Baker Bros carry these brands and many more, but they also offer product lines and colors not available at big box stores.

3. Arizona’s Largest Collection of Area Rugs

If area rugs are on your shopping list, this is where Baker Bros truly outshines big box competitors. They offer Arizona’s largest collection of area rugs, from traditional Oriental-style pieces to contemporary designs and performance-grade options. Many customers prefer this curated selection because it helps them complete their full flooring design in one place.

4. Better Support When Choosing the Right Waterproof & Family-Friendly Flooring

Arizona homeowners want floors that can handle real life—spills, pets, kids, messes, and everyday wear. Big-box stores usually stop at broad labels like “waterproof” or “water-resistant,” without explaining what those claims actually mean or which materials work best for each room.

Baker Bros goes further by helping you understand the why behind each option and guiding you toward the right solution for your home. Whether you need:

• Waterproof vinyl plank flooring that can withstand standing water for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms
  
• Tile flooring with industry-leading durability that’s pet friendly and scratch-resistant
  
• Laminate options are designed with modern water resistance, built for spills, traffic, and busy households
  
• Engineered products with moisture-resistant cores

This helps homeowners confidently choose the best waterproof flooring for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, or entire homes needing maximum durability.

5. Commercial-Grade Expertise for Home Projects

Because Baker Bros also handles commercial flooring, their team understands installation quality, material performance, and long-term wear in ways most big box installers do not. They know which flooring options stand up to heavy foot traffic and how to avoid common issues like gapping, cupping, and uneven subfloors.

Their installers are vetted, trained, and highly experienced — not third-party contractors chosen through a basic availability system.

6. Personalized Customer Service and Accurate Measurements

Big box stores often rely on quick, basic measurements and third-party estimators who juggle high daily workloads. Mistakes can lead to over-ordering, under-ordering, or improper installation.

Baker Bros provides precise measurements, tailored guidance, and continuous communication throughout your project. Homeowners consistently highlight this as a deciding factor—especially for major renovations.

7. Better Long-Term Value

Choosing flooring is not just about upfront cost. Poor installation, low-quality materials, and a lack of guidance can lead to costly fixes later.

With Baker Bros, you’re investing in:

• Higher quality products
• Professional design help
• Expert installation
• Reliable warranties
• Long-term durability

This combination makes Baker Bros the smarter value over time.

FAQs

Q: Why should I choose Baker Bros over big box stores for flooring?
A: Baker Bros offers over 80 years of experience in the flooring industry and specializes in providing high-quality flooring options and expert installation. Unlike big box stores, Baker Bros focuses on personalized service, a wide selection of premium brands, and expert advice on water resistance and performance.

Q: Does Baker Bros offer commercial flooring services?
A: Yes, Baker Bros provides both residential and commercial flooring services. They offer expert guidance and installation for commercial projects, ensuring long-term performance and durability, especially for high-traffic businesses.

Q: How does Baker Bros ensure quality flooring installation?
A: Baker Bros uses trained and experienced installers who provide precise measurements and expert guidance to ensure correct flooring installation. Their team is well-versed in the latest installation techniques, minimizing potential mistakes and maximizing the longevity of your floors.

Final Thoughts

When comparing Baker Bros to big box stores, the difference becomes clear: expertise, quality, and personalized service matter. With 80+ years of experience, exclusive brands, Arizona’s largest selection of area rugs, and a strong reputation as the state’s #1 and largest flooring retailer, Baker Bros delivers a better experience from start to finish. Whether you're searching for tile, hardwood, luxury vinyl, or the best waterproof flooring, their specialists help you find the perfect match for your home’s style, needs, and budget.

Ready to Explore Arizona’s Best Flooring Selection? Visit our showroom and experience the difference for yourself.