By Shane Webb, Owner — Gator Carpet & Tile • 30+ years Jacksonville flooring experience
Jacksonville's new construction market — Bartram Park, Beachwalk, Rivertown, Nocatee, and neighborhoods throughout St. Johns County and Duval — has exploded over the last decade. Many buyers accept builder-grade flooring at closing and replace it within two to three years anyway.
A smarter approach: skip the builder's flooring upgrade pricing (which is typically marked up significantly) and work with Gator Carpet & Tile directly after closing. You get better product selection, better pricing, and professional installation — usually at a lower total cost than the builder's upgrade packages.
We work with new construction homeowners throughout Northeast Florida, often scheduling installation within weeks of closing.
LVP throughout the main floor is the most popular upgrade we see in new Jacksonville builds. Homeowners run LVP from the front door through the kitchen, living areas, and secondary bedrooms, with quality carpet in the primary bedroom only.
Tile in all wet areas — bathrooms, laundry room, kitchen — should be the standard in any Florida home. Builder-grade tile is often a 12x12 ceramic that dates the home. Upgrading to large-format porcelain or a wood-look tile makes a significant visual difference.
Moisture testing is still required even in brand-new homes. New concrete slabs can retain elevated moisture for months after construction. We test before every slab installation — this is non-negotiable for any reputable flooring company.
After closing is often better. You can shop independently, compare quotes, and avoid the markup that builders charge for upgrades. Gator Carpet & Tile installs flooring in new construction homes within weeks of closing.
Builder-grade flooring is the entry-level material included in a new home's base price. Carpet is usually a thin, low-pile grade. LVP, if offered, is typically a thinner product. Most homeowners upgrade within a few years anyway.
Typically 2–4 weeks after closing, depending on scheduling. The home needs to be at normal temperature and humidity for at least a few days before installation.
Yes. Even in brand-new construction, concrete slabs need moisture testing before LVP or hardwood installation. New slabs can still have elevated moisture content for 6–12 months after pouring.
Schedule a free estimate before you move in. We'll measure every room and give you a written quote — no obligation.
Get a Free Estimate Call 904-262-7304