Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about flooring, installation, pricing and care,
all in one place.
Getting Started
Can I take home samples?
Yes, we encourage it. Colors look different in your own lighting, so view samples in the room at different times of day before you decide. Samples can be checked out for 48 hours.
What flooring is best with pets and kids?
Look for durable, easy-to-clean surfaces. Luxury vinyl plank is a popular choice for its scratch and stain resistance. Stain-resistant carpet is also a good option for bedrooms and family rooms. Ask us about pet-friendly and family-friendly options.
What is the difference between luxury vinyl, laminate and hardwood?
- Luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT): typically waterproof or highly water-resistant, durable and comfortable underfoot. Good for kitchens, baths, basements and busy households.
- Laminate: a budget-friendly, scratch-resistant option that mimics wood or stone, but generally more sensitive to standing water.
- Hardwood: natural and long-lasting, and can often be refinished, but needs more care and is sensitive to moisture and humidity swings.
Can I put hardwood in my basement?
Solid hardwood is not recommended below grade because of moisture. Engineered hardwood may work in some basements depending on moisture levels and the subfloor, but luxury vinyl plank is often the safer, lower-maintenance choice. We will help you decide after seeing the space.
What is the best flooring for a Michigan home?
It depends on the room. Michigan’s cold winters, humid summers, snow and road salt are tough on floors, so we generally suggest:
- Entryways and mudrooms: tile or luxury vinyl, which handle water and salt well.
- Basements: luxury vinyl plank or tile, which tolerate moisture far better than solid hardwood.
- Living areas and bedrooms: carpet for warmth and comfort, or hardwood and engineered wood for a classic look.
- Kitchens and baths: luxury vinyl, tile or sheet vinyl.
Visit our showroom and we will walk through the options with you.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (989) 894-2857 , email greg@magiccarpetbaycity.com, or visit our showroom at 1112 Garfield Ave, Bay City, MI 48708. Hours: Monday- Tuesday 9-5, Wednesday- Friday 9-6, Saturday by appointment. Our listing shows closed Sunday.
Which areas do you serve?
We are based in Bay City and have served the Tri-Cities (Bay City, Saginaw and Midland) since 1967.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. We will look at your space, talk through how you use it, and give you a written quote. Call (989) 894-2857 or stop by our showroom to get started.
What flooring services do you offer?
We sell and install flooring for homes, businesses, motorhome, boats and campers throughout the Tri-Cities, including carpet and carpet tile, hardwood and engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank and tile, laminate, ceramic and porcelain tile, and sheet vinyl.
Pricing and Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
Magic Carpet accepts all major credit credits, cash, check, or financing.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available through Wisetack on purchases of $299 to $10,000 subject to credit approval. Ask about special no interest offers.
What is included in your quote?
Our quotes list materials, installation labor, underlayment or padding, trim and transitions, and any removal or disposal of old flooring.
How much does new flooring cost?
Cost depends on the material, the size of the space, the condition of the subfloor, whether old flooring needs to be removed, and any stairs or special layouts. We provide a written estimate so you know the full price up front. We also carry remnants and value-focused selections for tighter budgets.
Installation
Do you install flooring I bought somewhere else?
Magic does not install flooring purchased from somewhere else as Magic cannot warranty the carpet or work if carpet is not purchased in store.
Can I walk on my new floor right away?
Carpet, vinyl plank and laminate can usually be used the same day. Tile (grout) and site-finished hardwood need more cure time. We will give you specific instructions for your floor.
Does my subfloor need work first?
Sometimes. A new floor is only as good as what is beneath it. Uneven, damaged or damp subfloors can cause problems later, so we check it carefully and recommend repairs only when they are needed.
Do you remove and dispose of my old flooring?
Yes, we can. We will also inspect the subfloor once the old flooring is up. If repairs or leveling are needed, we will discuss them with you before moving ahead.
How do I prepare for installation day?
- Clear small items, decor and breakables from the room.
- Let us know about pets, and keep them secured during the work.
- Make sure there is clear access to the work area.
- Furniture can be moved by the customer, or the installers will move for a flat fee.
How long will installation take?
Most single rooms can be done in a day. Whole-home projects, tile and hardwood take longer. We will give you a timeline with your estimate. Custom carpet orders generally need a 7-10 day lead time.
Care and Warranty
Who do I call if there is a problem after installation?
Contact us right away at (989) 894-2857 . We will review the issue and help work out next steps, including manufacturer claims if applicable.
What warranties do you offer?
Manufacturer warranties vary by product, and we will explain the coverage for your floor. Magic offers a 1 year warranty on all labor.
Why does my hardwood gap or shift in winter?
Wood expands and contracts with humidity. Dry winter air can cause small gaps that close up again in summer. Keeping indoor humidity relatively steady, often with a humidifier in winter, helps minimize this.
How do I care for my new floor?
Care varies by material, so we will give you instructions for your specific floor. In general:
- Place mats at entrances to catch dirt, water and salt in winter.
- Vacuum or sweep regularly to prevent grit from scratching the surface.
- Clean spills promptly.
- Use only cleaners recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use felt pads under furniture legs.
Getting Started
Who do I call if there is a problem after installation?
Contact us right away at (989) 894-2857 . We will review the issue and help work out next steps, including manufacturer claims if applicable.
What warranties do you offer?
Manufacturer warranties vary by product, and we will explain the coverage for your floor. Magic offers a 1 year warranty on all labor.
Why does my hardwood gap or shift in winter?
Wood expands and contracts with humidity. Dry winter air can cause small gaps that close up again in summer. Keeping indoor humidity relatively steady, often with a humidifier in winter, helps minimize this.
How do I care for my new floor?
Care varies by material, so we will give you instructions for your specific floor. In general:
- Place mats at entrances to catch dirt, water and salt in winter.
- Vacuum or sweep regularly to prevent grit from scratching the surface.
- Clean spills promptly.
- Use only cleaners recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use felt pads under furniture legs.
Do you install flooring I bought somewhere else?
Magic does not install flooring purchased from somewhere else as Magic cannot warranty the carpet or work if carpet is not purchased in store.
Can I walk on my new floor right away?
Carpet, vinyl plank and laminate can usually be used the same day. Tile (grout) and site-finished hardwood need more cure time. We will give you specific instructions for your floor.
Does my subfloor need work first?
Sometimes. A new floor is only as good as what is beneath it. Uneven, damaged or damp subfloors can cause problems later, so we check it carefully and recommend repairs only when they are needed.
Do you remove and dispose of my old flooring?
Yes, we can. We will also inspect the subfloor once the old flooring is up. If repairs or leveling are needed, we will discuss them with you before moving ahead.
How do I prepare for installation day?
- Clear small items, decor and breakables from the room.
- Let us know about pets, and keep them secured during the work.
- Make sure there is clear access to the work area.
- Furniture can be moved by the customer, or the installers will move for a flat fee.
How long will installation take?
Most single rooms can be done in a day. Whole-home projects, tile and hardwood take longer. We will give you a timeline with your estimate. Custom carpet orders generally need a 7-10 day lead time.
What payment methods do you accept?
Magic Carpet accepts all major credit credits, cash, check, or financing.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available through Wisetack on purchases of $299 to $10,000 subject to credit approval. Ask about special no interest offers.
What is included in your quote?
Our quotes list materials, installation labor, underlayment or padding, trim and transitions, and any removal or disposal of old flooring.
How much does new flooring cost?
Cost depends on the material, the size of the space, the condition of the subfloor, whether old flooring needs to be removed, and any stairs or special layouts. We provide a written estimate so you know the full price up front. We also carry remnants and value-focused selections for tighter budgets.
Can I take home samples?
Yes, we encourage it. Colors look different in your own lighting, so view samples in the room at different times of day before you decide. Samples can be checked out for 48 hours.
What flooring is best with pets and kids?
Look for durable, easy-to-clean surfaces. Luxury vinyl plank is a popular choice for its scratch and stain resistance. Stain-resistant carpet is also a good option for bedrooms and family rooms. Ask us about pet-friendly and family-friendly options.
What is the difference between luxury vinyl, laminate and hardwood?
- Luxury vinyl (LVP/LVT): typically waterproof or highly water-resistant, durable and comfortable underfoot. Good for kitchens, baths, basements and busy households.
- Laminate: a budget-friendly, scratch-resistant option that mimics wood or stone, but generally more sensitive to standing water.
- Hardwood: natural and long-lasting, and can often be refinished, but needs more care and is sensitive to moisture and humidity swings.
Can I put hardwood in my basement?
Solid hardwood is not recommended below grade because of moisture. Engineered hardwood may work in some basements depending on moisture levels and the subfloor, but luxury vinyl plank is often the safer, lower-maintenance choice. We will help you decide after seeing the space.
What is the best flooring for a Michigan home?
It depends on the room. Michigan’s cold winters, humid summers, snow and road salt are tough on floors, so we generally suggest:
- Entryways and mudrooms: tile or luxury vinyl, which handle water and salt well.
- Basements: luxury vinyl plank or tile, which tolerate moisture far better than solid hardwood.
- Living areas and bedrooms: carpet for warmth and comfort, or hardwood and engineered wood for a classic look.
- Kitchens and baths: luxury vinyl, tile or sheet vinyl.
Visit our showroom and we will walk through the options with you.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (989) 894-2857 , email greg@magiccarpetbaycity.com, or visit our showroom at 1112 Garfield Ave, Bay City, MI 48708. Hours: Monday- Tuesday 9-5, Wednesday- Friday 9-6, Saturday by appointment. Our listing shows closed Sunday.
Which areas do you serve?
We are based in Bay City and have served the Tri-Cities (Bay City, Saginaw and Midland) since 1967.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes. We will look at your space, talk through how you use it, and give you a written quote. Call (989) 894-2857 or stop by our showroom to get started.
What flooring services do you offer?
We sell and install flooring for homes, businesses, motorhome, boats and campers throughout the Tri-Cities, including carpet and carpet tile, hardwood and engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank and tile, laminate, ceramic and porcelain tile, and sheet vinyl.
Pricing and Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
Magic Carpet accepts all major credit credits, cash, check, or financing.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available through Wisetack on purchases of $299 to $10,000 subject to credit approval. Ask about special no interest offers.
What is included in your quote?
Our quotes list materials, installation labor, underlayment or padding, trim and transitions, and any removal or disposal of old flooring.
How much does new flooring cost?
Cost depends on the material, the size of the space, the condition of the subfloor, whether old flooring needs to be removed, and any stairs or special layouts. We provide a written estimate so you know the full price up front. We also carry remnants and value-focused selections for tighter budgets.
Installation
Do you install flooring I bought somewhere else?
Magic does not install flooring purchased from somewhere else as Magic cannot warranty the carpet or work if carpet is not purchased in store.
Can I walk on my new floor right away?
Carpet, vinyl plank and laminate can usually be used the same day. Tile (grout) and site-finished hardwood need more cure time. We will give you specific instructions for your floor.
Does my subfloor need work first?
Sometimes. A new floor is only as good as what is beneath it. Uneven, damaged or damp subfloors can cause problems later, so we check it carefully and recommend repairs only when they are needed.
Do you remove and dispose of my old flooring?
Yes, we can. We will also inspect the subfloor once the old flooring is up. If repairs or leveling are needed, we will discuss them with you before moving ahead.
How do I prepare for installation day?
- Clear small items, decor and breakables from the room.
- Let us know about pets, and keep them secured during the work.
- Make sure there is clear access to the work area.
- Furniture can be moved by the customer, or the installers will move for a flat fee.
How long will installation take?
Most single rooms can be done in a day. Whole-home projects, tile and hardwood take longer. We will give you a timeline with your estimate. Custom carpet orders generally need a 7-10 day lead time.
Care and Warranty
Who do I call if there is a problem after installation?
Contact us right away at (989) 894-2857 . We will review the issue and help work out next steps, including manufacturer claims if applicable.
What warranties do you offer?
Manufacturer warranties vary by product, and we will explain the coverage for your floor. Magic offers a 1 year warranty on all labor.
Why does my hardwood gap or shift in winter?
Wood expands and contracts with humidity. Dry winter air can cause small gaps that close up again in summer. Keeping indoor humidity relatively steady, often with a humidifier in winter, helps minimize this.
How do I care for my new floor?
Care varies by material, so we will give you instructions for your specific floor. In general:
- Place mats at entrances to catch dirt, water and salt in winter.
- Vacuum or sweep regularly to prevent grit from scratching the surface.
- Clean spills promptly.
- Use only cleaners recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use felt pads under furniture legs.
Still Have Questions?
Talk With a Flooring Expert
Ready to start your project? Call (989) 894-2857, or visit us at 1112 Garfield Ave, Bay City, MI 48708 . Hours: Monday- Tuesday 9-5, Wednesday- Friday 9-6, Saturday by appointment. Our listing shows closed Sunday.
1112 Garfield Ave.
Bay City, MI 48708
sales@magiccarpetbaycity.com
Ready to Start
Your Project?
Call us, or visit our Bay City showroom to see your options in person.
- 1112 Garfield Ave . Bay City, MI 48708
