Thinking about upgrading your floor to something tough and beautiful? Consider plank flooring. It’s a favorite for many homeowners. It lasts long and gives your space a whole new look. But, is it really essential to have pros install it for that perfect finish?
If you ask me, having pros install your plank flooring is key. The DIY videos might look easy. But, can you get the same quality as a pro does?
Let’s really look into why professional installation matters for plank flooring. Flooring experts and skilled installers know their stuff. They bring their knowledge and careful hands to make your floor look amazing.
Key Takeaways:
- Plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and attractive appearance.
- Professional installation ensures a seamless and high-quality finish.
- Skilled installers bring expertise and craftsmanship to the flooring project.
- DIY installations may fall short in achieving the desired outcome.
- Investing in professional installation can make a significant difference in the overall result.
Different Types of Plank Flooring
Plank flooring has many options to fit your style and budget. Whether you like the classic look of hardwood floors or the savings of laminate flooring, you can find what you need. Each type improves the beauty of your home.
Engineered wood is a favorite too. It has a thin layer of real wood on top of plywood. This mix means it looks like hardwood but is tougher.
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is great for those looking to save money. It can look like real wood or stone. This is thanks to new technology. Yet, it costs less than the real thing.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors have a classic and natural appeal. They come in many wood types and finishes. You can also choose different sizes.
These floors are strong and can be sanded and refinished. They’re a smart pick for any home because they last a long time.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate can look like wood, stone, or tile without the cost. It’s made of layers with a printed design on top. This means it stands up well against wear and tear.
Laminate is a great pick for busy areas since it’s durable and easy to keep clean. Plus, it’s less expensive than real wood or stone floors.
Engineered Wood
Engineered wood is tough and looks like real hardwood. It’s made of layers of wood glued in different directions. This makes it less likely to swell or shrink with humidity changes.
The top layer is actual wood, so it looks genuine. It’s a great middle ground between the high cost of hardwood and the lesser durability of solid wood.
Luxury Vinyl
Luxury vinyl feels real but costs less and is strong. It’s also waterproof, so perfect for wet areas. You can find it in many styles and patterns.
This type includes wide planks too. These make rooms feel bigger and more modern. It’s a solid choice for many homes.
Remember to think about what you need in flooring. Whether you pick hardwood for its warmth, laminate for saving money, engineered wood for durability, or vinyl for variety, each choice will make your home look better. Choose what suits you best.
Best Overall Vinyl Plank Flooring
LL Flooring’s ReNature by Coreluxe line is the top pick for vinyl plank flooring. It’s loved by experts for its great quality and amazing features.
“ReNature by Coreluxe is known for its strong stain and water resistance. This makes it a smart option for homeowners. Its ability to handle spills and daily use is outstanding.”
One key feature of ReNature by Coreluxe is its realistic wood patterns. These planks show wood grains and knots that look real. They give your space a true and natural feel. The work put into creating them is clear, making them hard to tell apart from hardwood.
Plus, ReNature by Coreluxe has a UV-cured finish. This extra layer protects the flooring, making it strong and long-lasting.
It’s great for any room in your house, like the kitchen or bathroom. ReNature by Coreluxe is versatile, with its stain and water resistance. Its beautiful wood look adds style and function to your home.
Choosing ReNature by Coreluxe means getting the charm of hardwood. You won’t deal with the upkeep or high cost of traditional wood. It’s a smart and stylish choice for your home.
Best Value Vinyl Plank Flooring
Are you searching for great value in vinyl plank flooring for your house? You’ve found it in LifeProof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring. It has excellent worth, fights scratches well, and is easy to find, making it great for saving money.
LifeProof’s vinyl plank is built tough for daily use. It has a 22-mil wear layer to resist heavy wear and keep up appearances in busy places, such as bathrooms.
LifeProof stands out for its balance between quality and price, even though its designs may not be as eye-catching as some luxury brands. Yet, with its easy availability, you can buy it from many home stores or online shops.
LifeProof is a wise choice if you want flooring that is tough and budget-friendly. It’s a smart pick for those wanting quality without a high cost.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Value | Provides a budget-friendly flooring option |
| Scratch Resistant | Withstands daily wear and tear, ideal for high-traffic areas |
| Wide Availability | Easily accessible in home improvement stores or online |
LifeProof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring brings together a good price and lasting quality. It’s a chance to upgrade your home with a floor that won’t let you down, both in value and performance.
Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for Kitchens & Bathrooms
Mohawk SolidTech Plus is a top choice for kitchens and bathrooms. It’s waterproof and comes in many designs. This makes it both functional and stylish.
Its waterproof feature makes it great for kitchen and bathroom use. It can handle spills and moisture without damage. This ensures your floors are safe and well-protected.
It also offers a wide range of designs. You can choose from 25 wood-look patterns. Whether you like classic oak or modern gray, there’s something for everyone.
Though it’s more expensive, its durability is worth it. It will last a long time in high-moisture areas. Your floors will stay beautiful for years.
Mohawk SolidTech Plus is the best pick for these areas. Its waterproof quality, various designs, and quality justify the price. Perfect for those looking to improve their home’s style and practicality.
Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for DIYers
Are you a DIY lover looking for simple flooring? SMARTCORE Interlocking Flooring is a top pick. It’s ideal for kitchen, bathroom, or any space at home. This choice makes DIY projects a breeze.
SMARTCORE is praised for how easy it is to install. You don’t need special skills or tools. Just snap the planks together for a pro look.
It’s also widely available at Lowe’s. You can shop there in person or online, making things easy for everyone.
Design Options
SMARTCORE has many styles to match your taste. You can get the look of stone or ceramic without the high costs. Plus, it’s easy to keep up with.
Benefits of SMARTCORE Interlocking Luxury Vinyl Tile Flooring
SMARTCORE is great for those who love DIY. It’s easy to install and buy at Lowe’s. Plus, it’s durable, waterproof, and simple to clean.
Get Started on Your DIY Project Today
With SMARTCORE, you can change your space with no stress. It’s simple to install, easy to find, and has cool design options. Elevate your home with SMARTCORE vinyl plank flooring.
Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for Pets and Kids
Looking for tough flooring with pets and kids around? Hartco Everguard Rigid Core Flooring is a top pick. It’s perfect for homes full of energy. This flooring handles scuffs and scratches with ease.
The Hartco Everguard stands out with its lasting finish. It has a durable top layer. This layer fights wear and tear well. So, your floors stay great, even with pets and kids playing.
This flooring offers many wood looks to match your home. From classic to rustic, you’ll find a style you love. It fits any design you pick.
When it comes to flooring for pets and kids, think about comfort too. Hartco Everguard includes a soft underlayment. This keeps the floor comfy for playing and crawling.
Choosing Hartco Everguard Rigid Core Flooring means less worry. It’s strong, comes in many looks, and is comfortable. The perfect flooring for lively families.
Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for Basements
In basements, the right flooring is key for it to last long. Armstrong American Personality Pro is a top pick for vinyl plank flooring in basements.
Armstrong American Personality Pro is easy to install. So, even if you’re doing it yourself, you’ll get pro results. The strong wear layer makes your basement floor tough against lots of feet and some dampness.
This vinyl has a bendy design, great for putting over concrete floors. It lays down well, making a strong, lasting base. Yet, remember it doesn’t have an underlayment attached. You might need to add extra padding for a softer feel and to reduce noise, if you want.
With Armstrong American Personality Pro, your basement can be cozy and match your style. It’s easy to put down and strong, making it a smart choice for basement floors.
Make your basement better with Armstrong American Personality Pro vinyl plank flooring. Check out how it compares in the table below:
| Key Features | Armstrong American Personality Pro |
|---|---|
| Easy Installation | Yes |
| Durable Wear Layer | Yes |
| Flexibility | Yes |
| Attached Underlayment | No |
Upgrade your basement with Armstrong American Personality Pro vinyl plank flooring
How We Test Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is tested thoroughly for quality and how well it works. We look at things like if it stains, can deal with water, how it looks, and if it’s easy to install. This helps us find the best vinyl planks for you, the customer.
Stain Resistance
It’s important for vinyl plank flooring not to stain easily. We test it with things like coffee, oil, and red wine. Then, we see if it can be cleaned without a problem.
Water Resistance
Vinyl plank flooring needs to handle water well, especially in wet places like bathrooms or kitchens. During testing, we soak the flooring in water to check for leaks. It’s all about keeping the floor looking good, even when wet.
Abrasion Resistance
Daily foot traffic and use can cause scratches and scuffs. So, we test how well the flooring holds up against this wear. This way, we ensure your floor keeps looking nice and lasts long.
Appearance
The look of vinyl plank flooring matters a lot. We look at how it feels, the color, and if it looks like real wood or stone. Our tests make sure the floor is not only durable but also a beauty to behold.
Ease of Installation
Installing vinyl plank flooring should be easy, whether you’re a pro or doing it yourself. We check the installation steps from start to finish. It’s all about how easy the planks are to click together or glue down.
Testing helps us guide you to the best vinyl flooring. Our aim is to assist you in picking the right flooring that’s durable, does well, and looks great. You deserve only the best, and we’re here to help you find it.
What to Look For When Shopping for Vinyl Plank Flooring
When you shop for vinyl plank flooring, consider several key factors. Here’s what to look for:
Type of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring comes in various types, each with unique benefits. Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) looks like natural stone or ceramic. Rigid core vinyl is extra durable.
Waterproof vinyl is best for places like bathrooms. Think about your needs and space before choosing.
Features
Be sure to check the features of different vinyl plank types. Waterproof flooring can handle spills without damage. Stain resistance keeps it looking good for a long time.
Also, consider if the flooring is durable and scratch-resistant. This can help it last through daily use.
Plank Size
Plank size affects your space’s look. Larger sizes make rooms feel bigger and connected. Smaller planks can give a classic or rustic vibe.
Choose based on your room’s size and design plan. This influences the overall look of your vinyl flooring.
“Choosing the right vinyl plank flooring involves considering the type, features, and plank size that best suit your space and design preferences.”
Think about the type, features, and plank size to make a smart choice. Whether it’s luxury tile, rigid core, or waterproof, the right flooring ensures beauty and durability.
Design Dilemma: Realistic Looking Vinyl Plank Brands
Homeowners look for flooring that is both realistic and easy to take care of. Vinyl plank brands with a real wood look and feel are great. They provide durable, stylish, and low-maintenance alternatives to hardwood floors.
Authentic Grain by Mohawk Home is known for its realistic wood textures and grains. Vinyl’s ease combined with Mohawk’s detail makes it a great choice. It looks good and is simple to maintain.
Another good option is Nature’s Vision by Shaw Floors. Shaw Floors is all about new designs and quality. They make vinyl planks that feel and look like natural wood. Nature’s Vision is strong, looks like hardwood, and is easy to care for.
“Vinyl plank flooring has become very realistic and high-quality. The top brands offer great looks and convenience. Homeowners can get the look of wood without the upkeep.”
Varia by Tarkett stands out for its many design choices. They have everything from classic oak to exotic acacia. Varia’s focus on detail and being green makes their floors not just beautiful but also good for the earth.
A Side-by-Side Comparison of Realistic Vinyl Plank Brands
| Brand | Realistic Appearance | Convenience | Ease of Care | Hardwood Floor Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Authentic Grain by Mohawk Home | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nature’s Vision by Shaw Floors | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Varia by Tarkett | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
This table shows how each top vinyl plank brand is great at looking real, being easy to use and care for, and as an alternative to hardwood floors. It lets you see what’s special about each brand. So, homeowners can pick the best one for what they want and need.
Choosing realistic vinyl plank flooring is a smart way to make your home look and work better. You get the benefits of vinyl plus the great look of wood. These brands are both tough and fashionable for lasting beauty.
Benefits of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Choosing the right flooring is key for your home. Vinyl plank flooring has many good points. It’s durable, easy to keep up, resists water and scratches, and is affordable. It’s a great way to add style to your space without spending a lot.
Durability: Vinyl plank flooring is super tough. It can handle a lot, even with pets and kids. You won’t need to worry about marks or stains, especially in busy areas.
Easy Maintenance: Vinyl is easy to take care of. Just sweeping and mopping now and then can make it look new. Plus, it’s fine with spills, so cleaning up is a snap.
Water Resistance: This flooring keeps water from damaging it. It’s perfect for wet places like the bathroom or kitchen. You can relax, knowing your floors are safe from harm.
Scratch Resistance: It fights off scratches really well. This is great for homes with pets or lots of people. Your floors will keep their good looks longer.
Cost-Effective: Vinyl plank is a cheaper option compared to hardwood. It looks just as nice but costs less. You can save money and still get that wood-like floor you want.
Vinyl plank flooring brings a lot to the table. It’s durable, low-maintenance, water and scratch resistant, and affordable. Whether upgrading a high-traffic area or replacing hardwood, it’s a wise solution for style and practicality.
Tips for Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring
Putting in vinyl plank flooring is a great DIY project. With the right advice, it can go smoothly. Here’s how to make sure your installation is a success:
- Level Subfloor: Make sure the subfloor is flat before you start. If it’s not, use a leveling compound or sand it. This step helps the vinyl planks sit correctly and avoids problems later.
- Leave Expansion Gaps: Vinyl plank flooring moves with heat and humidity. You must put small gaps around the room and any things that can’t move. These gaps will be hidden by baseboards or moldings for a neat look.
- Practice Interlocking: Vinyl planks usually snap together. Before you begin, try fitting a few together. This practice makes the real installation easier and helps you avoid mistakes.
“Making the subfloor flat, leaving gaps for expansion, and learning how to fit the planks together are key to a successful project.”
Expert Tip:
Use a tapping block or a rubber mallet when installing. It helps you fit the planks closely. This reduces the chance of gaps between them.
If you’re not sure about any installation step, or your project is big or complex, consider hiring a professional. They can give you the help you need.
Follow these suggestions for a successful vinyl plank flooring project. You’ll end up with a strong and beautiful floor in your home.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Level Subfloor | Ensure the subfloor is level to prevent issues with the vinyl plank flooring’s installation and performance. |
| Leave Expansion Gaps | Allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the vinyl planks by leaving small gaps around the perimeter and fixed objects. |
| Practice Interlocking | Familiarize yourself with the interlocking mechanism of the vinyl planks to ensure a smooth and error-free installation process. |
Vinyl Flooring Maintenance & Care
If you want your vinyl plank flooring to stay in great shape, taking care of it is a must. Thankfully, it’s easy to clean, tough, and it fights off stains well. This makes it a great pick for the busy parts of your home.
Regular Sweeping
Your vinyl plank flooring stays clean with regular sweeping. Choose a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum with a gentle attachment. This clears away dirt and prevents scratches, keeping your floor looking new.
Occasional Cleaning
Sometimes, you’ll need to clean more than just sweeping. For a light clean, mop with some water mixed with mild detergent. Avoid harsh cleaners that can harm your floor’s surface.
Protective Measures
Protecting your vinyl flooring is key to making it last longer. Place doormats by doors to keep out dirt. Put pads under heavy furniture to stop scratches. Also, keep your pets’ nails short to protect the floor.
Proper maintenance and care ensure that your vinyl flooring remains beautiful and resilient for years to come.
| Product | Maintenance | Easy Cleaning | Durability | Stain Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LL Flooring: ReNature by Coreluxe | Low maintenance | Easy to clean | High durability | Excellent stain resistance |
| LifeProof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring | Minimal maintenance | Simple cleaning process | Strong and durable | Resistant to stains |
| Mohawk SolidTech Plus | Easy to maintain | Hassle-free cleaning | Exceptional durability | Impressive stain resistance |
Follow these tips for maintaining and caring for your vinyl plank flooring. With its benefits of being easy to clean, durable, and able to resist stains, vinyl flooring is a perfect choice for a worry-free, long-lasting floor.
Conclusion
Plank flooring can make your home look beautiful. You can choose from hardwood, laminate, engineered wood, or luxury vinyl. But, the most important thing is to have it installed by professionals.
When experts install your flooring, you get a perfect and long-lasting finish. Their work shows quality and care. You will enjoy your floors for a long time without worries.
So, always aim for the best when it’s about your home’s floors. Get expert installation of plank flooring. This choice is both durable and gives a luxurious look.