Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Scheihing.
Hi Kevin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started working in flooring when I was just sixteen years old. I learned every aspect of installations while working for a general contractor, and from that point on, the flooring industry became a part of who I was. While attending Towson University as a business major, I worked in the flooring department at Home Depot, gaining even more knowledge and firsthand experience.
After graduating from Towson, I accepted a position at ProSource, a large flooring franchise. From there, I went on to work for two more major franchises in the industry — Carpet One and Flooring America. Each company had its own unique business model, and each taught me something valuable. I built a proven track record of sales growth and strong customer relationships everywhere I worked.
But as time went on, I felt myself hitting a glass ceiling. I didn’t mind putting other people’s visions first, but I couldn’t ignore the mistreatment I saw toward employees and customers. I knew deep down that these were not places where I wanted to build my future.
When my wife, Tracey, and I found out she was pregnant with our first daughter, Ella, everything became clear. I needed to make a change — not just for me, but for my growing family. With the support of my wife, my parents, and my own determination, I decided to take the best pieces of everything I had learned and build something unique.
My grandfather believed in me so much that he lent me $20,000 to get started. With that money, I leased a building, bought a forklift, purchased displays, and gathered everything I needed — while being as frugal as possible. In the beginning, I did it all: answering the phones, running the forklift, handling every lead and measure. No one tells you how hard it is to start a business — the state paperwork, resale certificates, MHIC licenses, and even being targeted or blackballed by former employers.
My father spent nights and weekends helping me turn a concrete shell with no heat or air conditioning into a space where people actually wanted to shop. I hired my first employee, someone I had worked with before and trusted. Slowly but surely, we grew. My showroom wasn’t fancy, but what I did have was great products, exceptional service, and the best installation available. Over the years, I had built a network of installers second to none — and they came with me.
Five years after starting this journey, we upgraded to a 6,000-square-foot building. We invested in top-quality displays and created a beautiful shopping experience. We grew to 12 employees. My older brother joined me, and eventually, my father came on board after retiring from BGE. It became clear that all the hard work — not just mine, but everyone who believed in me — had paid off.
About four years ago, we decided to join Abbey Carpet, the only major flooring franchise I had never worked for. They offered resources that helped me continue growing, without forcing me into a strict structure. I could pick and choose what worked best for my business, while still maintaining full control.
I was able to pay my grandfather back, and even though he’s no longer here, I know he would be proud of what KC Flooring has become. We haven’t forgotten the challenges or where we came from. And as we continue to grow, I remain grateful for every person who helped me build something meaningful from the ground up.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The beginning of starting my business was, without question, the most challenging part of my entire journey. Other than my family, no one wanted to help. None of the major flooring franchises were willing to extend membership to me at first, and several manufacturing sales reps refused to set up my accounts because my previous employers were actively trying to block me. It was discouraging, but it was also one of the greatest learning experiences of my life.
From incorporating my company to handling every single role myself — sales, measurements, admin work, customer service, installations, and everything in between — I was forced to learn fast. Every obstacle taught me something. Every setback built resilience. And as time passed, things slowly became easier. The doors that were closed in the beginning eventually opened, and the people who once doubted me saw that I wasn’t going anywhere.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
KC Flooring provides the largest selection of flooring in Harford County. We provide and install hardwood, laminate, tile, luxury vinyl, carpet, sheet vinyl, and we offer sanding and refinishing services. We specialize in residential, commercial, and restoration work, serving customers throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania.
We’ve become known for our personalized service, exceptional installations, and competitive pricing. Our product offerings are extensive and include all well-known, first-quality brands. We also stock more than 25,000 square feet of flooring so we can help customers who need high-quality products quickly — including carpet, waterproof laminates, and luxury vinyl planks.
Several of our exclusive brands offer extended warranties that many of our competitors simply do not have access to. While most competitors only provide carpet and hardwood, we offer everything: tile, refinishing, installation, and more. We truly are a one-stop shop for all of your flooring needs.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I wanted to take the time to thank you for allowing me to share my story. Looking back on the challenges and obstacles I’ve faced, I truly feel blessed to have overcome them. I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of my family and the incredible team at KC Flooring. And to my customers — I am forever grateful. Your trust, loyalty, and belief in my business made all of this possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yourkcfloor.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BoP8eKLFM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
