If you’re on a mission to find your next floor for your current home or a remodel, the COREtec vinyl flooring brand is a worthwhile consideration. But before you commit, you might want to read more about the company in our COREtec vinyl flooring review.
COREtec’s vinyl flooring options are widely available and incredibly popular in today’s market. The brand is known for its luxury vinyl flooring, which offers superior durability through a thick wear layer and waterproof construction.
This guide takes a deep dive into the specifics of COREtec’s vinyl flooring offerings, stopping at several points along the way, including cost, customer reviews, and materials. We have decades of combined experience with flooring materials and created this comprehensive review to help consumers like you ensure they select the best-suited flooring for their homes.
3.7
Our Rating
COREtec is a well-known luxury vinyl flooring provider known for its durable and high-quality waterproof vinyl flooring, luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP), and luxury vinyl tile flooring (LVT) products. The company offers its wares in varying collections, each featuring a cluster of styles, designs, and colors to accommodate a range of aesthetic preferences. It doesn’t offer lower-cost laminate flooring options, hardwood floors, or subfloor materials.
However, despite its notable perks, COREtec has its drawbacks. The primary concern is its steep cost, which is higher than that of many competitors. This factor can be a major deterrent, especially for homeowners on a budget.
Our Preferred Vinyl Flooring Companies
While COREtec can be a solid option for your vinyl flooring needs, they’re not your only option. Here are a few of our preferred vinyl flooring companies:
4.7
Complimentary post-installation follow-ups
Provides convenient in-home consultations
Hundreds of flooring showrooms nationwide
4.8
Offers next-day installations on certain flooring options
Multiple financing options
Mobile showroom option for convenient at-home shopping
3.8
Natural and engineered hardwood options
Offers augmented reality visualizer tool
Provides free samples online and in-store
COREtec Reviews
For many consumers, the reviews of a product are enough to sway them one way or another in a buying decision. Negative reviews far outweighing the positive reviews raise an unmistakable red flag. Conversely, plentiful positive reviews bolster confidence and trust by communicating satisfactory experiences with a company.
So, to provide an in-depth look into COREtec’s review ratios, we explored dozens of COREtec flooring reviews on various retailer sites and Google. The overwhelming majority of COREtec flooring reviews are positive, which bodes well for potential customers.
Scores of reviewers applaud various COREtec flooring options for their beautiful designs, high-quality feel, and ease of installation. Several reviewers also mentioned positive experiences with the company’s customer service team, raving over how friendly and helpful the representatives were.
However, a handful of negative reviews scattered throughout the mix dampen the outstanding feedback. Several customers mention issues after installation, citing peeling layers and buckling. A couple of reviewers complain about the warranty, discussing poor response times on warranty claims and denials for improper installation.
Our Review Scores For COREtec
Company Pros and Cons
COREtec excels in a few areas and leaves something to be desired in others. While this is typical of any flooring option, it doesn’t hurt to consider the pros and cons before committing.
What We Like and Don’t Like
Like any flooring provider, COREtec has places where it excels and others where it has room for improvement. The following sections explore our findings on various aspects of the brand’s offerings to help you decide if COREtec fits your flooring needs well.
Customers of COREtec receive plenty of coverage for their floors, which come with a limited lifetime warranty.
COREtec offers a limited lifetime warranty for most of its flooring options in residential settings. This coverage is impressive, rivaling competitors that offer similar flooring options. Several of COREtec’s flooring options feature slightly shorter warranties, but these are few and far between.
Unfortunately, COREtec outlines specific eligibility requirements. If you don’t meet these requirements, you may not receive warranty coverage on your floors. While this isn’t entirely abnormal, it can pose a problem for customers unaware of the terms and conditions.
Available at various price points, COREtec vinyl plank flooring options can accommodate varying budgets. Its flooring is priced competitively with engineered hardwood and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring from other manufacturers.
COREtec products are available at multiple price points, starting in the mid to high range and climbing from there. There are dozens of LVP flooring options available at each point, ensuring there’s something to accommodate mid-range to high-end budgets.
COREtec’s higher-end options come at a premium price, making them an unrealistic choice for some homeowners. The high costs can be a deterrent for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly option.
COREtec offers comparable customization options to competitors, providing a decent range of options to accommodate varying preferences.
COREtec’s design services make it easy to customize your flooring setup to your home’s decor and aesthetics. The designers aid you with choosing the perfect color coordination and other aspects to ensure your home matches the flooring you choose. There are plenty of colors, textures, and patterns to choose from, ensuring there’s something for nearly any homeowner.
Unlike some providers, COREtec doesn’t offer a complete array of customizable options. While its lineup encompasses a wide range of styles and colors, there might not be something for homeowners with very specific tastes.
Carrying a strong reputation and an impressive array of customer reviews, COREtec is a solid option.
COREtec has a strong reputation in the industry as a reliable provider. Its customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers applauding the comfortable underfoot feel, durability, and customer service.
Since COREtec sells its products through various retailers, service can vary drastically based on location. So while the company has a strong reputation, it doesn’t necessarily reflect the service you’ll receive from retailers that sell its products.
Some customers may have unimpressive experiences with local retailers. To familiarize yourself with customer experiences specific to your local retailer, check the reviews and ratings on that retailer’s Google profile or website.
A straightforward claims process makes it easy to tackle any issues that may arise with your COREtec flooring.
COREtec’s warranty claim process is simple and aligns with the industry standard. As the original purchaser, you need to contact your authorized company dealer to access claims services. You’ll need to provide a few pieces of information, including your proof of purchase, photographs of the concern, and a detailed description. It’s straightforward, eliminating the hassle of filing a flooring claim.
COREtec outlines specific requirements for customers to receive full warranty coverage. While the information is readily available, consumers unaware of it may be denied coverage for failing to meet the requirements, creating dissatisfaction.
COREtec’s flooring options are available nationwide, making them an accessible choice for nearly any homeowner.
COREtec’s nationwide availability is handy, as some providers only offer services and sales in specific states. Hawaii and Alaska are often excluded from the mix, but COREtec has these states covered with at least one retailer in each.
COREtec’s website didn’t list any retailers in a select handful of states, yet after a quick search, we found retailers in those states. Additionally, certain states only have one or two retailers listed on COREtec’s website, which could create an issue for homeowners who live farther away from those locations.
Availability of COREtec By State
COREtec flooring is available nationwide through various retailers. While COREtec’s website doesn’t list retailers in Georgia, Maine, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, or Wyoming, individual retailers in these states claim to offer the brand’s lineup.
COREtec vs. Competitors
COREtec holds its own against its competitors, although it’s considerably pricier than its primary competition. Additionally, it doesn’t offer the same services, like installation and in-home consultations, as its competitors. The chart below provides a quick overview of COREtec and its competitors to help you choose the best option for your home.
| Provider | COREtec | Empire Today | LL Flooring | Floor Coverings International |
| Our Rating | 2.9 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 |
| Average Price Per Square Foot | $6.99 – $7.49 | Customers need an in-home estimate to see Empire Today’s prices | $3.50 – $4.00 | $4.00 – $6.25 |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime residential, varies based on the type | Limited lifetime, varies based on the type | Lifetime, varies based on the type | Limited lifetime, varies based on the type |
Video Overview of COREtec
COREtec has an array of options to accommodate varying preferences and situations. The video below provides a sneak peek into the brand’s products.
What Types of Flooring Does COREtec Offer?
COREtec’s flooring options encompass a range of styles and designs in various collections. Most options are floating floors (not glued or nailed down – check out our post on ‘gluing vs. nailing hardwood). and include the following:
Credit: COREtec
- COREtec Original: These flooring options are the most affordable, and some options in this series don’t feature an attached flooring pad. They come in 12 styles and various colors, textures, and patterns that mimic real wood. This option comes in planks that are 6 inches wide, 48 inches long, and 8mm thick.
Credit: COREtec
- COREtec Pro: This collection features about 50 colors and styles. Some choices come in planks that are 5 to 7 inches wide, 48 inches long, and 8mm thick, and others come in tiles that are 12 inches by 24 inches.
Credit: COREtec
- COREtec Stone: This series comes in about twenty colors and design options that replicate a natural stone appearance, ceramic tile, or standard tile flooring. Planks feature 9-inch widths, 72-inch lengths, and 8-mm thicknesses.
Credit: COREtec
- COREtec Scratchless: This lineup features the brand’s most luxurious options, with 12-mm thick planks and all sorts of colors and designs. Planks feature four-sided beveling for a more seamless appearance and have great scratch resistance.
| Low-end Options | Mid-range Options | Premium Options |
| $4.99 – $6.49 | $6.50 – $7.99 | $8.00 – $11.00 |
What Flooring Services Does COREtec Offer?
Unlike many flooring providers, COREtec doesn’t provide an array of flooring services. Many providers offer in-home consultations, showrooms, financing, and full-service installations. However, COREtec is more of a DIY brand than a full-service provider, so its primary flooring services include financing and design.
Financing
COREtec is partnered with Wells Fargo Bank to provide financing options to its customers. To take advantage of these options, you’ll need to complete a credit application through the bank. Once you receive a credit decision, you can purchase your floor using the options available to you.
COREtec proudly advertises the credit payment program’s benefits, including online bill payments, extended payment terms, and competitive interest rates. Payment plans come in all shapes and sizes to accommodate your individualized budget needs and include:
- No interest plans with equal payments: This plan allows you to pay a consistent amount monthly over a set time without accruing interest.
- No interest if paid in full plans: As long as you pay off your purchase within the promotional period, you won’t have to pay interest. However, if you don’t pay it off within this timeframe, you’ll accrue interest at the regular 28.99% APR.
Design
COREtec understands how tricky it can be to design a space in your home. Creating a cohesive, visually appealing flow throughout your home can be complicated, especially since there are so many contributing factors.
Once you select a product that matches your aesthetic preferences and home needs, your COREtec designer will direct you to a local retailer to complete your purchase. All that’s left is installing your floors and enjoying your newly created space.
How Much Does COREtec Cost?
COREtec flooring is pricier than other options available on the market, so it might only be suitable for some homeowners. On average, COREtec vinyl flooring costs between $4.50 and $11.00 per sq. ft.
The COREtec Original Collection features a price between $6.50 and $7.49 per square foot. This collection includes the Plus Design, Plus HD, Plus XL Enhanced, Plus Premium 7”, and Plus Premium 9” options.
COREtec Stone and COREtec Scratchless collections are pricier, costing between $7.49 and $11.00 per square foot. The most affordable options of the bunch fall into the Pro series, which costs $4.99 to $8.00 per square foot.
If you DIY the installation, you won’t pay much more than the cost of the flooring unless you need to purchase specific tools for the project. However, if you decide to have a professional install your vinyl plank flooring, you can expect to pay between $3.00 and $10.00 per square foot.
Professional installation costs fluctuate based on factors specific to your situation, including local labor costs and the project’s difficulty level.
How To Save Money On COREtec Flooring
Installing new flooring can be expensive, especially when revamping your entire home. COREtec’s offerings aren’t the cheapest available, but there are a couple of ways you can save money, including the following:
- Financing: While this option won’t save you money in the long run, it can help manage up-front costs by allowing you to pay over time. COREtec provides special financing options to its customers.
- Discounts and promotions: COREtec flooring is widely available through an array of flooring providers, many of which offer excellent deals for even better savings. Pay attention to the providers that carry the flooring option you like, as they might have a deal or promotion on that particular flooring type.
- Warranty: The COREtec warranty provides an ideal route to better savings by offering coverage on your investment. To ensure you get full coverage, follow COREtec’s installation guidelines to a tee. This way, you won’t have to foot the bill if something unexpected, like a flooring defect or covered damage, comes up.
You might also want to know the cost of engineered hardwood flooring to determine which flooring option suits your budget the most. Check out our article for details
COREtec Consultation and Installation Process
Unlike some providers, COREtec doesn’t offer in-home consultations and full-service installations. Instead, the brand is geared more toward DIYers, offering convenient tools to help them along the way.
Its website offers handy tools, including a product calculator to help you determine how much flooring to buy. Simply enter the square footage you need to cover and choose whether you want to leave a bit of wiggle room. Select the flooring option you want, then click “Do The Math.”
The tool will calculate how much flooring you need based on the information you enter, ensuring you don’t buy too much or too little for your project.
When you’re ready to choose your flooring, COREtec guides you through the process with an online design service. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
1. Click on “Design Services” on the homepage
2. Choose “Book Free Appointment” to schedule a free 30-minute phone or video consultation with one of COREtec’s designers. You can also select “Chat” for quick flooring questions.
3. Book a time.
4. Request free flooring samples from your designer — you can get unlimited samples.
5. Receive your samples, and determine which flooring product you want to purchase.
6. Order your new flooring by selecting “Find a Retailer” at the top of COREtec’s homepage.
7. Choose a retailer near you and schedule the delivery and/or installation directly with the third party.
Does COREtec Offer a Good Warranty?
An excellent warranty is a critical piece of the best flooring options. Top-tier, industry-leading providers typically supply an outstanding warranty, ensuring your investment is protected. This displays the provider’s confidence in its products and reflects well on the company.
COREtec doesn’t disappoint with its warranties, offering impressive limited lifetime coverage on many of its residential flooring options. The warranty shortens considerably for commercial applications, ranging from five to 15 years for most flooring options.
However, the coverage is excellent for residents installing these floors in their homes. It includes waterproofing, so if your floor experiences water damage, the warranty may cover it. Restrictions apply, as prolonged exposure to spills or similar situations isn’t covered.
It’s important to note that COREtec outlines specific requirements to be eligible for warranty coverage. You must follow the brand’s instructions, which include carefully following the installation guidelines and showing proof of proper installation. The company may deny your warranty claim if you fail to meet these requirements.
So, if you DIY your COREtec floor installation, ensure you take the time to do it right, as improper installation can void the warranty.
So, Is COREtec Worth It For Your Home?
COREtec vinyl floors are a worthwhile consideration for many homeowners. They offer excellent durability with a decently thick wear layer, protection against water with waterproof construction, and a strong warranty with lifetime protection. While these waterproof flooring options are pricier than others, you get what you pay for.
However, COREtec’s offerings might not be the best option for every home. If you can’t find something you like or that meets your household’s needs from COREtec, consider our other preferred flooring companies, which might have the perfect fit. The ideal flooring provider for your home will hinge on your needs, so use your aesthetic preferences, expectations, and needs to select the most suitable option for your home. If you want to compare COREtec to other brands, check out our SmartCore vs COREtec comparison.
4.7
Complimentary post-installation follow-ups
Provides convenient in-home consultations
Hundreds of flooring showrooms nationwide
4.8
Offers next-day installations on certain flooring options
Multiple financing options
Mobile showroom option for convenient at-home shopping
3.8
Natural and engineered hardwood options
Offers augmented reality visualizer tool
Provides free samples online and in-store
Many homeowners share the same concerns when purchasing a new flooring solution, leading to frequently asked questions like those we’ve answered below.
FAQs About COREtec
Do COREtec floors scratch easily?
COREtec flooring doesn’t scratch overly easily. It’s scratch resistant but not scratch proof. So, while it’s durable enough to resist scratches under everyday use due to its solid wear layer, it can still scratch. The brand’s Scratchless lineup is especially scratch resistant.
Does COREtec need underlayment?
Several COREtec flooring options feature attached cork underlayment, so additional cushioning is unnecessary. This means you can install it over most existing hard floors without adding underlayment, which can diminish the product’s strength.
How do you clean COREtec vinyl flooring?
COREtec sells a floor cleaner designed for its flooring, but you don’t necessarily have to use it. Any pH-neutral floor cleaner will do, but steer clear of options with detergents or floor polishes mixed in. Spritz the cleaner over the floor and wipe it up with a microfiber cloth.
Alternatively, use a damp microfiber wet mop pad to wipe up the cleaner.
How does COREtec vinyl flooring hold up to heavy traffic?
COREtec vinyl flooring holds up decently well under heavy foot traffic, as it features a 20 mil wear layer (a mil is 0.02 inches or 0.5 mm). This is usually the minimum thickness for areas with more foot traffic, as it offers a durable barrier that can withstand constant traffic.
Methodology: How We Rank Flooring Companies
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement and maintenance projects. Our flooring company reviews focus on what's important to you as a homeowner. That's why we look for companies that offer next-day installation, comprehensive labor guarantees, and various flooring options.
A flooring company can earn a total of 100 points in five categories. This score is then converted into a five-star scale. We use publicly available information, such as free quotes and customer reviews, to create our rating scales.
- Availability (10 points): We evaluate the availability of each flooring company, ranking them by the number of locations and the number of states in which they have a presence. The companies with the greatest availability receive the highest score in this category.
- Company Reputation (15 points): A company's reputation is a good indicator of its product. We use customer reviews and ratings from reputable organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), to determine this rating. Flooring companies that have received a higher BBB rating and are more proactive in responding to complaints receive higher scores in this category.
- Customer Service Features (30 points): When you decide to renovate, repair, or replace your floors, you want the best service possible. We evaluate flooring companies based on whether or not they offer in-home shopping, floor visualization tools, and next-day installation. If a company offers a labor guarantee, they receive a higher rating.
- Flooring Types Offered (15 points): Flooring companies that offer a wide range of flooring products are at the top of this category. We review each company and note if they offer installation and repair of laminate, hardwood, vinyl, tile and carpet.
- Services Offered (30 points): When you hire a flooring company to replace your floors, you want the job done from start to finish. We evaluate each flooring company's services and see if they offer removal of old floors, leveling of the subfloor, installation of new floors and free, no-obligation quotes.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
