COREtec LVP commands a premium (averaging $ 5.50 to $ 8.50 per sq. ft. before installation) because of its superior engineering, authentic aesthetics, and brand legacy. As an industry pioneer owned by Shaw Floors, it prioritizes high-performance, long-term durability over budget alternatives.
Most homeowners say COREtec's worth the $4-7 per square foot premium because it's truly waterproof and looks remarkably like real hardwood. You'll find it holds up beautifully for 5-10 years with pets, kids, and heavy traffic, requiring only basic sweeping and mopping.
COREtec is widely regarded as the highest-rated and most popular luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring brand in 2026, known for its 100% waterproof, durable, and stable construction featuring a signature cork underlayment. Other top-rated, high-performance brands include Shaw Floors (Floorté series), Mohawk SolidTech Plus, and Karndean Designflooring.
COREtec flooring, while popular for being waterproof and durable, has several disadvantages, including susceptibility to surface scratches from pets or furniture, potential for dents from heavy objects, and a higher price point compared to other luxury vinyl products. It cannot be refinished, requires perfectly level subfloors to avoid clicking sounds, and may suffer from pattern repeats or fading in direct sunlight.
Is vinegar safe for Coretec? Yes, diluted white vinegar works as a gentle cleaner—just don't flood the floors. Are Swiffer wet pads OK for Coretec? Most are fine for luxury vinyl, but avoid overly wet pads.
Yes, you can absolutely use Dawn dish soap on Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring. Because it is a pH-neutral cleaner, it safely cuts through grease and dirt without damaging the protective wear layer. However, you only need a tiny amount, and you must rinse the floor afterward.
The best overall option for COREtec Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is COREtec ENCORE Floor Cleaner, the manufacturer's official pH-neutral formula. For readily available store alternatives, Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner and Zep Luxury Vinyl Floor Cleaner are highly recommended, as they protect the waterproof core and wear layer without leaving dulling residue.
Solid hardwood flooring is considered the safest and least toxic option as it's completely natural and free from any toxins. Solid hardwood floors are made of planks milled from a single piece of timber, which makes it a healthy flooring option.
CORETEC is a premium luxury vinyl brand created by US Floors, which was acquired by Shaw Industries in 2016. While they share the same parent company, COREtec is known for softer, quieter, and thicker WPC (wood plastic composite) flooring with an attached cork underlayment. Shaw’s namesake LVP (such as Floorté) generally relies on denser, firmer SPC (stone plastic composite) at a lower price point.
LVP floors feature a tough, durable wear layer that helps resist scratches from pet claws, toys, and furniture. Dog nails and rowdy toddlers dragging chairs can wreak havoc on weaker floors, but luxury vinyl flooring is engineered to prevent scratches in everyday traffic.
What are the most popular vinyl plank flooring colors in 2026? Light oak, greige, and soft brown tones continue to be favorites. These colors feel fresh and versatile, working well with neutral palettes, natural light, and the relaxed, airy look many homeowners are going for right now.
The best months to buy flooring are late December through February and mid-May to early June. During winter, flooring stores clear out old inventory with deep discounts—often 15–30% off.
6–12 mil wear layers are best for light residential use, guest rooms and low-traffic areas. 12–20 mil is ideal for busy homes with kids and pets, your everyday family use. 20+ mil is where you enter light commercial territory, rental properties, small shops, and offices.
Yes, Costco sells COREtec flooring through its custom flooring program in partnership with Shaw Floors. Members can purchase various styles of COREtec luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile.
Most COREtec products include attached cork underlayment as part of the plank construction. This cork layer provides benefits standard LVP doesn't offer: Comfort: Cork adds noticeable cushioning. COREtec floors feel softer and more comfortable underfoot than standard LVP, which can feel hard on your feet and joints.
No, you should not use a steam mop on most COREtec and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) floors. The intense heat and moisture can cause the vinyl planks to warp, peel, and delaminate. Furthermore, using a steam mop can void your floor's manufacturer warranty.
COREtec flooring, while popular for being waterproof and durable, has several disadvantages, including susceptibility to surface scratches from pets or furniture, potential for dents from heavy objects, and a higher price point compared to other luxury vinyl products. It cannot be refinished, requires perfectly level subfloors to avoid clicking sounds, and may suffer from pattern repeats or fading in direct sunlight.
Joanna Gaines is known for her signature "modern farmhouse" aesthetic, relying on light wide-plank wood, vintage checkerboard tile, patterned cement, and earthy volcanic ash. She frequently uses durable, high-quality flooring materials that blend old-world character with family-friendly functionality.
The most realistic Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring features Embossed in Register (EIR) technology, which perfectly aligns the physical texture of the plank with the printed wood grain. Top industry brands include COREtec for high-end textures and comfort, Karastan for designer-level aesthetics, and Mohawk for pet-resistant performance.
Comparing COREtec and Mohawk depends on your specific flooring type, as COREtec is best known for luxury vinyl plank (LVP), while Mohawk is famous for its waterproof "hybrid laminate," RevWood. COREtec excels in premium comfort and 100% moisture-proof builds, whereas Mohawk offers higher dent resistance and more budget-friendly pricing.
COREtec luxury vinyl flooring is designed to be free of added formaldehyde and meets stringent indoor air quality standards.
Yes, Dawn dishwashing soap can be used to clean luxury vinyl plank flooring. Just add a few drops to a bucket of warm water. This mixture is excellent for removing grease and grime, especially in kitchens. However, be cautious not to use too much soap, as it can leave a film that dulls the floor's shine.
Avoid using products that contain detergent, vinegar, wax, citrus or floor polish. How do I remove spots & spills? As with any flooring surface, you'll want to absorb wet spills as quickly as possible by blotting with paper or cloth towels. Rinse with water if necessary and blot dry.
Yes, you can safely use standard Swiffer wet pads or a Swiffer WetJet on Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floors. Because LVP is water-resistant and durable, the light moisture from Swiffer pads falls well within safe damp-mopping limits, making it a great option for quick clean-ups.