What to Expect at Wilkins Carpet and Tile Center in South Carolina

Wilkins Carpet and Tile Center offers flooring sales and installation across South Carolina locations

Wilkins Carpet and Tile Center is a regional flooring retailer with multiple locations throughout South Carolina, specializing in carpet, tile, and related hard-surface flooring. The business operates showrooms where you can view samples, get pricing, and arrange installation. They carry both budget-friendly and premium options, and most locations offer in-home measurement and professional installation services.

The company has been serving South Carolina homeowners and contractors for years, and their sales staff can walk you through the differences between carpet types, tile materials, and installation methods. If you're replacing flooring in a single room or renovating an entire home, you'll work with a sales associate who can discuss durability, maintenance, and cost before you commit to a purchase.

Key Takeaways

• Wilkins has multiple South Carolina locations where you can see carpet and tile samples in person before ordering.
• The company provides in-home measurement services, which means a representative visits your space to take exact dimensions and assess subfloor conditions.
• Installation is handled by Wilkins crews or vetted contractors, and most jobs include removal of old flooring and disposal.
• Pricing varies by material, square footage, and complexity, so getting an in-home estimate is the most accurate way to budget your project.
• You can visit a showroom to compare options, or call ahead to discuss your project and schedule a measurement appointment.

How to start your flooring project at Wilkins

The first step is to visit one of the Wilkins showrooms or call to describe what you need. Have ready the room dimensions (or a rough idea of square footage), the current flooring type, and your budget range. The staff can recommend materials that fit your needs—for example, tile for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, or carpet for bedrooms and living spaces.

Once you've narrowed down your choices, Wilkins will schedule an in-home measurement. A representative comes to your house, measures the space precisely, checks the condition of the subfloor, and notes any obstacles like doorways or built-in cabinets. This visit also gives you a chance to ask questions about installation timing, disruption to your home, and what happens to your old flooring.

After the measurement, you'll receive a detailed estimate that includes material cost, labor, and any additional charges like removal or floor preparation. You can review this at home, compare it to other quotes if you wish, and contact Wilkins to move forward or ask for adjustments.

What Wilkins carpet and tile options typically include

Carpet comes in different fibers—nylon, polyester, and wool—each with different durability and price points. Nylon is durable and holds color well; polyester is softer and often less expensive; wool is luxurious but costs more. Wilkins carries samples of each, and staff can explain which works best for high-traffic areas versus bedrooms.

Tile options include ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Ceramic is affordable and comes in many colors and patterns. Porcelain is denser and more water-resistant, making it better for kitchens and bathrooms. Natural stone like marble or slate is premium but requires more maintenance. Wilkins showrooms display these side by side so you can compare texture, color, and finish.

Hard-surface flooring like vinyl plank and laminate are also available at most locations. These are budget-friendly, water-resistant, and easy to clean, making them popular for kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements. Staff can show you how realistic modern vinyl looks compared to older versions.

Installation timeline and what to prepare

Installation typically takes one to three days depending on the size of the space and complexity of the job. Wilkins crews will remove your old flooring, prepare the subfloor (which may include leveling or repairs), and install the new material. You'll be told in advance how long to expect the work to take and whether you need to clear furniture from the room.

Before installation day, move breakables and personal items out of the work area. If you have pets, arrange for them to stay elsewhere during the day—the noise and activity can stress animals, and open doors create escape risks. Wilkins will let you know if you need to turn off HVAC systems or take other precautions.

After installation, avoid walking on new carpet for 24 hours if possible, and keep new tile dry for at least 48 hours. Wilkins will explain care instructions specific to your material—for example, whether to use certain cleaners or avoid certain products.

Pricing and payment options

Flooring cost depends on the material you choose, the square footage of your space, and labor. Budget carpet might run $2 to $5 per square foot installed; premium carpet $8 to $15 or more. Tile ranges from $3 to $10 per square foot for ceramic, $8 to $20 for porcelain, and significantly more for natural stone. These are rough ranges; your actual cost will come from the in-home estimate.

Most Wilkins locations accept cash, credit cards, and financing options. Some offer payment plans that let you spread the cost over several months. Ask about current promotions or discounts when you call or visit—flooring retailers often run seasonal sales or bundle deals.

Wilkins locations and how to contact them

Wilkins Carpet and Tile Center operates multiple showrooms across South Carolina. To find the location nearest you, search online for "Wilkins Carpet and Tile Center" plus your city or region. Each location has its own phone number, and staff can answer questions about inventory, hours, and scheduling.

You can visit a showroom during business hours to browse samples without an appointment, though calling ahead is helpful if you want to ensure a sales associate is available to spend time with you. For faster service, have your room dimensions and photos of the space ready when you call to schedule your in-home measurement.

What to ask before you commit

Before signing a contract, confirm what's included in the price: removal of old flooring, disposal, subfloor preparation, and installation labor. Ask whether there are additional charges for stairs, transitions between rooms, or repairs to the subfloor. Clarify the warranty—most carpet and tile come with manufacturer warranties, and Wilkins may offer a labor warranty as well.

Ask about the timeline from order to installation, especially if you're working around a specific date. Find out who will be doing the installation—Wilkins crews or a subcontractor—and whether you can contact them directly if questions arise during the work. Finally, ask what happens if you're unhappy with the installation; most reputable flooring companies will address legitimate concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be home during the in-home measurement?

Yes, a Wilkins representative needs to see the space, check the subfloor, and discuss your preferences. This is also your chance to ask questions and get a sense of the timeline and process. The visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Can Wilkins install flooring over existing carpet or tile?

In most cases, old flooring must be removed before new flooring is installed. Removing old carpet and tile is usually included in the estimate. Removing and disposing of the old material ensures the new flooring sits on a clean, stable base and lasts longer.

What if I want to compare prices from other flooring companies?

You can get estimates from multiple retailers. Having several in-home measurements gives you a clear picture of pricing and helps you decide. Make sure each estimate includes the same services—removal, preparation, and installation—so you're comparing apples to apples.

How long does carpet or tile last?

Quality carpet typically lasts 5 to 15 years depending on foot traffic and maintenance. Tile lasts much longer—20 to 30 years or more—though grout may need resealing or repair. Wilkins staff can recommend materials based on how long you plan to stay in your home.

What if my subfloor needs repair?

The in-home measurement will identify subfloor issues like soft spots, water damage, or uneven surfaces. Wilkins can quote the cost of repairs separately, or you can hire a contractor to fix the subfloor before flooring installation begins. Either way, the subfloor must be sound before new flooring goes down.