Whether you’re embarking on the exciting journey of purchasing your very first home, or you’ve recently decided to give your house a flooring makeover, you might be asking yourself, “What is the best flooring company to go with?” - and for good reason!
With so many options available, it can be hard to make the right decision, especially with so many flooring companies offering different styles, features, and promises.
If you make the wrong flooring choice, you’ll risk not only disliking the finished look but wasting your hard-earned money.
Never fear, though, because we’re here to lend you a helping hand. Out of all the companies on the market, COREtec is a standout amongst the rest, which is why we’ve decided to take a look at this company today.
Keep reading to discover if COREtec is the right choice for you!
COREtec Flooring: Company Overview:
Initially launched back in 2012, you might be interested to learn that COREtec actually started out in a spare bedroom!
With core values of authenticity, durability, and the notion of, ‘less is more’ COREtec has quickly risen up the ranks and become one of the most luxury flooring brands on the market.
If you don’t have a whole lot of time, here’s a quick breakdown of some key flooring features that set COREtec apart from the rest:
- Huge selection of styles - COREtec offers a huge selection of styles, colors, and panel sizes to choose from, so you’ll have plenty of choices to choose from.
- Waterproof - each style of flooring is completely waterproof, so COREtec flooring is suitable for both dry and wet areas.
- Not exclusive to any retailer - Unlike other flooring companies, such as LifeProof, COREtec is not exclusive to one retailer, which means you can purchase it from a variety of online retailers, as well as home interior stores.
- Lifetime warranty - Most of COREtec’s flooring comes with a lifetime warranty, which is sure to give you peace of mind upon purchasing.
COREtec Flooring: What to Expect
After making the decision to go with COREtec, it’s a good idea to gain an understanding of what to expect, so that you can be properly prepared.
Regardless of which style you choose while shopping with COREtec, you can expect to receive premium-quality, totally durable flooring panels that are sure to elevate your space with a modern and authentic look.
Plus, known for its versatility, COREtec offers one of the largest catalogs of LVP (luxury vinyl plank) designs on the market, not to mention a variety of other styles including stone tile and engineered hardwood flooring solutions.
One of the biggest differentiating factors between COREtec and other flooring companies is that COREtec goes above and beyond during the manufacturing process. Every plank, regardless of the style, is carefully pressed to create a realistic wood or stone effect that will not only look the part but feel it, too.
However, all of this does come at a slightly higher cost than other flooring brands out there, though it’s important to keep in mind that COREtec creates flooring that lasts, which is why so many consider them to be an investment worth making.
COREtec Flooring: Construction Design
Now that you know the general gist of what to expect from COREtec, this brings us to our next section: the construction. Similar to other flooring brands, COREtec follows a common construction method that utilizes 3 to 5 layers per plank, although this varies depending on the cost and design.
COREtec puts an emphasis on the bottom layer, in order to guarantee the strength and durability of the overall plank structure.
The bottom layer creates the stable foundation of the plank and is the main area where pressure and shock are absorbed. In order to prolong the base layer, COREtec almost always uses either a rubber or cork foundation on all of their LVP floorings and engineered hardwood, which will save you more money in the long run because these durable materials are able to withstand more pressure.
In addition to this, a huge benefit of choosing to go with COREtec flooring is that you won’t have to purchase any additional underlay, as the rubber base serves the same purpose. This will help to keep your total spending down and allow the planks to be warmer and more comfortable to walk on.
As for the middle layers, COREtec tends to use a versatile mix of rugged materials in order to provide an additional layer of strength and durability to the overall plank structure. Usually, the mixture consists of a mineral deposit core which is able to ensure the longevity of each plank, which in turn grants COREtec the ability to offer longer warranties.
The top layer is made of an embossed thermal-resin that gets carefully pressed with authentic wood and stone designs that are both authentic and realistic in texture.
Unlike other brands whose patterns can often mismatch or appear inconsistent side by side, COREtec ensures that each plank blends seamlessly into the next. Thanks to that, you can be confident that your flooring will look flawless and consistent.
COREtec Flooring: Installation
One of the most important factors that you’ll need to consider before purchasing from COREtec is that you’ll likely have to spend additional money on a professional floorer.
So much so, that for some types of flooring, COREtec specifies that their flooring has to be professionally installed otherwise the warranty will be made null and void if any damage is made during DIY installation.
This is important to consider because, unless you are confident that you can successfully install the flooring yourself, or you’re a professional contractor, you’ll likely have to shell out an additional few thousand dollars to get the flooring actually installed after purchase.
On average, you should expect to spend around $1695 to get your COREtec professionally installed, which is an expensive additional cost to consider. However, if you do plan on giving it a go yourself, here is a quick rundown on how to do it:
- Allow the planks to acclimate to the designated room’s temperature for 24 hours.
- Prepare the space by removing furniture and other items.
- Measure the floor. With chalk, find the center point of every wall and mark the corners, leaving an inch or so for expansion.
- Mix the planks to achieve a more authentic finish.
- Start with the first row, maintaining a1/4th gap from the wall. You should also ensure that the rows are offset by 6 inches.
- For the following rows, follow the steps above, being sure to maintain a 6-inch offset.
- The final rows will need to be twisted and locked into place. We recommend using a mallet.
- Allow 15 hours for the planks to set.
COREtec Flooring: General Upkeep
For the price, you’d expect COREtec flooring to be easy and simple to take care of - and we’re pleased to report that there are no disappointments on that front.
The maintenance routine that COREtec recommends is very easy to follow and will take no time at all. However, you’ll need to be prepared to start the upkeep immediately, as COREtec recommends that you sweep away dirt and clean it with a damp mop before you place any furniture on top of it.
After that, COREtec recommends that you regularly sweep away any dirt and debris in order to maintain the pristine appearance of the flooring. You should also be sure to clean any spillages with soapy water or a cleaning solution, in order to prevent any staining.
If possible, we also recommend being extra careful to avoid any scratches by either lifting the furniture over the flooring while moving it or purchasing foam pads that you can use to cover the feet.
In addition to this, we do not recommend wearing shoes across the flooring, as this will help to keep the floor flawless and free from scratches. You may also wish to remove any rugs or mats from the floor, as this will help to keep dirt and debris at a minimum.
Special precautions should also be taken while hoovering, as COREtec states that a brush roll or rotating beater bar (which is common in many standard hoovers) can cause little scratches on the panel surface.
Lastly, we also recommend regularly mopping the floor. COREtec actually has its own line of cleaning products known as Encore, which has been specifically created for use across all of Coretec’s floors. However, many users state that these products are very expensive, and choose to use clean water as an alternative.
As a side note, we also recommend trying to avoid using steam mops where possible, as these can cause damage to the flooring over time. Though they may seem to be the more convenient option, the hot steam will cause the panels to break apart over time, and may even cause lifting, cracking, and warping.
COREtec Flooring: Warranty and Pricing
Almost all of COREtec’s flooring is sold in cases, and you will be charged by the square foot. Now, this is where things can get a little tricky because the square foot is not the cost of the case of planks.
Therefore, you’ll need to make sure that you properly measure the floor space beforehand, so that you can then work out how many cases you’ll need in relation to the square footage.
You should always make sure that you purchase a little extra. That way, you will have planks left over in the event of any damage, or if you needed to replace any down the road. By doing this, you will also allow for some wiggle room during the installation, as some planks may get cut too short.
This brings us onto the warranty, which will vary depending on the style of flooring you buy. Generally, most of COREtec flooring comes with the promise of a lifetime warranty, however, there are some types of flooring (mainly stone tiles) that only come with a 10-year warranty.
Regardless of this, we strongly recommend taking the time to thoroughly study the warranty that comes with the flooring you select, making sure to familiarize yourself with everything that you’ll need to do in order to uphold your side of the warranty.
In addition to this, COREtec also requires you to activate the warranty upon purchase, and if you don’t, you will risk the warranty becoming null and void.
The way that you’ll have to activate your warranty can vary depending on the style, though the most common methods COREtec implement is by registering your purchase online or keeping a proof of purchase.
COREtec Flooring: Comparison
How does COREtec stand up against competing brands? Read on to discover:
COREtec Vs. LifeProof
LifeProof is a well-respected brand that has become well known for its functional designs and affordable prices. Unlike COREtec, LifeProof is entirely exclusive to Home Depot and is significantly less expensive than COREtec.
In addition to this, though the quality and durability of LifeProof are impressive, it is not quite as good as COREtec, which explains the price difference.
COREtec Vs. Mohawk
Mohawk is another popular flooring brand that you might be already familiar with. Just like COREtec, Mohawk creates durable and resilient flooring, though these two brands differ greatly in price due to the overall quality.
Mohawk, though they create great flooring, is not quite on the same level as COREtec. This is mainly due to the fact that COREtec utilizes a rock-solid blend of 3-5 layers per plank, which ensures that COREtec’s flooring is far stronger and thicker than any of Mohawk’s.
However, that’s not to say that Mohawk does not create quality flooring - because they do. The only difference here is that Mohawk caters to a lower price point, while COREtec is classified as being more high-end.
COREtec Vs. Shaw
If you’ve already begun looking around for options, then we’re sure that you’ll have already come across Shaw.
Known as one of the very first flooring manufacturers, Shaw is a high-end company that creates some of the finest LVP and engineered flooring on the market, so it should come as no surprise that they also have some of the highest prices on the market, too!
Just like COREtec, you really are getting what you pay for with Shaw, as both of these brands are nearly identical with regards to their manufacturing process and constructions.
The only difference between the two brands is that COREtec has a much wider catalog than Shaw, which is something to keep in mind.
COREtec Flooring: Pros and Cons
Pros
- All of COREtec’s flooring is 100% waterproof, which means that COREtec can cater to all types of flooring needs, whether that be in your kitchen or bedroom.
- To help prevent the growth of any mildew or mold, all of COREtec’s flooring is treated with an antimicrobial coating across both the top and bottom plank layers.
- Durable and made of high-quality materials, this flooring will be able to withstand the demands of everyday living.
- Featuring innovative COREtec wear layers, all of COREtec’s flooring is stronger than many other competing brands.
Cons
- The warranty is a little misleading and is dependent on professional installation.
- COREtec has, on average, a higher price point than other brands that are deemed to be on the same level.
- Across nearly all styles, professional installation is recommended by COREtec, which may be an issue for those looking for the most cost-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before we jump into our final thoughts, we’d like to take a moment to answer any outstanding questions that you may have.
Below, check out some of the most frequently asked questions we get regarding COREtec:
Can COREtec be installed in any type of room?
Yes, COREtec flooring can absolutely be installed in a variety of different rooms.
As all of COREtec’s flooring are 100% waterproof and ‘life-proof (as they put it) COREtec flooring can be laid in rooms that are prone to getting wet, such as a bathroom, as well as any other kind of standard room in your home.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that COREtec flooring is temperature-sensitive, and can only be installed in rooms that can stay between 55 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can COREtec flooring stain easily?
Though it is possible for COREtec flooring to become stained through general day-to-day mishaps, it is very unlikely that this will happen.
However, to minimize the chances of this occurring, you should be sure to quickly clean away any spills as soon as possible, and we recommend using either soapy water or isopropyl alcohol for more stubborn spills.
Where is COREtec flooring sold and where can I buy it?
Like we mentioned earlier, as COREtec is not exclusive to any one retailer chain, this means that COREtec is sold in a variety of different stores and retailers both up and down the country and, of course, online.
If you want to discover where the closest retailer is near you that sells COREtec, a quick google search will be able to let you know where you can purchase it from.
Can COREtec flooring be installed on floors that radiate heat?
Yes, they absolutely can! Although, you will need to take a few precautions, which COREtec carefully outlines in their paperwork manual that comes in the case you’ll purchase.
You will need to make sure that you have used the proper underlay among other things, so if you intend on installing COREtec flooring overheat radiating floors and you want to stay on the safe side, we recommend asking a professional to take a look for you to make sure that you’re completely safe.
Final Thoughts
So, there we have it! We’ve reached the finished line. In conclusion, COREtec is no doubt one of the finest flooring manufacturers in the game.
Unlike competing flooring retailers, COREtec goes above and beyond to create quality flooring that is both simplistic and modern, while being driven by the passion to create beautiful and authentic flooring designs. They’re a cut above the rest, and rightfully so.
However, we don’t think that it’s fair to wrap this up without pointing out some of the downsides to be aware of, too. COREtec’s flooring is by no means convenient, and you’ll likely find yourself having to spend additional money hiring a professional contractor to lay the flooring for you.
Therefore, COREtec might not be the right choice for you if you’re keen to try your own hand at installing it.
In addition to that, not all styles of flooring come with a lifetime warranty and those that do have many clauses within them that might mean you aren’t covered if an accident occurs and a panel needs to be replaced.
Nevertheless, we can’t deny the fact that COREtec creates simply stunning flooring designs that blend luxury with functionality.
So, if you’re on the search for high-quality flooring and don’t mind hiring a professional to do the work for you, COREtec just might be the flooring company for you.
Thank you for reading!
