We built our custom home four years ago, and our general contractor hired Gaylin Carpets as the subcontractor responsible for the flooring, tile, and a high-end custom shower.
Unfortunately, our experience was extremely disappointing from the beginning. The flooring was installed crooked and had to be completely reinstalled after I pointed out the issue. While they did correct it, it was clear the original installation lacked the level of skill expected for a custom home. Several floor tiles also had severe lippage, leaving sharp edges that could be felt underfoot.
The biggest failure, however, was the custom shower. In less than four years, the river rock floor began changing color and deteriorating, and the shower floor remained constantly wet. The owner of Gaylin Carpets came out and drilled a hole in the bench seat, which released approximately two gallons of trapped water. They attempted a repair, but it did not solve the underlying problem.
We then had three independent companies inspect the shower, and all believed the waterproofing membrane had failed. We ultimately hired a specialty shower company to demolish and rebuild the shower. During demolition, they explained multiple installation failures, including an incorrectly installed Schluter waterproofing system and several other failure points.
Our original custom shower cost approximately $20,000 and lasted less than four years. A properly installed shower should last decades--not fail almost immediately. The demolition and replacement cost us an additional $30,000.
If this had been a manufacturer defect, that would be understandable. However, this was not a product failure--it was poor workmanship and improper installation.
Based on our experience, I cannot recommend Gaylin Carpets for custom flooring or shower work. I strongly encourage anyone considering them to ensure the installers assigned to the job have the experience and craftsmanship required and to verify that the company will truly stand behind its work if serious installation issues arise. read more
