Vinyl plank becomes a popular flooring option for every homeowner for its multifunctional usage. It is durable, waterproof, easy to maintain, stylish, and affordable at prices.
There are thousands of LVP brands that offer vinyl plank flooring. Among them, Lifeproof and Coretec Plus make their place on the top of the row.
Both brands offer high-quality LVP floors that last for a long time. So, it will be challenging to make a buying decision as both Coretec Plus and Lifeproof are the winners.
To get rid of your confusion, we compiled this comparison guide on Coretec Vs. Lifeproof vinyl flooring. We compare both these brands based on some criteria like material, durability, comfort, ease of installation, price, etc. As a result, you can effortlessly make a profitable decision and pick the best one from these two.
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Contents
Difference Between Coretec vs Lifeproof Vinyl Floor
We focus on what differences have between Lifeproof and Coretec vinyl plank floorings. At the end of this, you can decide which one will be ideal for you.
Construction
Coretec is a vinyl floor constructed with four layers though a layer is invisible. The top layer of this floor is designed based on color, style, and texture that gives it a natural look. Limestone, wood, and bamboo are used to make the middle layer. Finally, the bottom layer is generally a cork underlayment. And the best part is- each layer is waterproof.
On the other hand, Lifeproof vinyl planks have three layers. The top layer uses stains or textures to add a natural wood finish to the plank. And the middle layer is constructed from PVC, which makes the plank flexible enough for easy installation.
Lastly, the base layer is a padded underlayment. It uses rubber and PVC foam, making the vinyl plank comfortable to walk on.
Scratch Resistant or Not
From above, you know Coretec vinyl planks have four layers while the Lifeproof has three layers. It means Coretec is thicker compared to its counterpart. As a result, Coretec can resist scratches better than the Lifeproof. So, the winner is Coretec from the perspective of scratch-resistant capability.
Waterproofness
Coretec Plus vinyl base is constructed with 4 layers and all of them are waterproof. When you install the floor properly, each water-repellent planks prevents water from seeping through to the sub-floor. As a result, water can’t bring any damage to the floor and you can install them in the wet area like the bathroom, laundry room, or in your basement.
In contrast, the Lifeproof vinyl plank floor is water-resistant, not waterproof. It means your Lifeproof vinyl base remains water-repellent for 24 hours. In other words, there is nothing that makes Lifeproof’s waterproof qualities better than Coretec.
To sum up, you can go for Coretec if you want a waterproof vinyl base that can be installed in wet areas.
Look
The noteworthy difference between Lifeproof and Coretec vinyl plank is the beveled edge. Coretec has fancy beveled edges, real texture, and graining to bring back the natural hardwood look. On the other hand, Lifeproof doesn’t have fancy beveled edges. That’s why Coretec looks like real hardwood when you install it in a randomized way.
Comfortable to Walk on Or Not
So far, Lifeproof is more comfortable to walk on. It has more rubbery underlayment compared to its counterpart, Coretec. As a result, you feel comfortable, no matter how long you are standing on the Lifeproof base.
Compared to Lifeproof, Coretec feels much harder to feet. Yes, it’s cork underlayment which adds a bit of cushion. But it’s not comfortable enough like the Lifeproof feels.
So, the winner here is Lifeproof.
Durability
Both Coretec and Lifeproof vinyl flooring are durable because of their construction material and thickness. But when it comes to choosing one between these two, we go for Coretec. Coretec has four layers and uses durable materials like recycled wood, bamboo, and limestone.
Ease of Installation
Undoubtedly, Lifeproof is easier to install compared to Coretec. If you have a little DIY experience, you can install the LifeProof vinyl base by yourself. In reverse, Coretec itself recommends you to install its vinyl plank by a professional.
Maintenance
Maintaining both Coretec and Lifeproof vinyl plank floors is simple. You can keep it dirt-free by regular vacuuming and sweeping. Therefore, you can use a mop for deep cleaning the floors as both of them are waterproof. Indeed, you don’t need to hassle to clean & maintain Lifeproof and Coretec floors.
Price
Coretec vinyl flooring is a bit pricey compared to Lifeproof. It costs you $7 per square foot, while Lifeproof costs you only $3 per square foot. Therefore, Coretec recommends you install it by a professional which also adds installation cost. On the other hand, you can install the Lifeproof vinyl plank by yourself which saves you a lot of bucks.
Warranty
If you buy the Lifeproof vinyl planks for installing in a residential home, it offers a lifetime warranty. However, it doesn’t cover you up if the planks get damaged by misuse. On the contrary, Coretec offers a 15-year warranty.
Check this too: Vinyl Vs Laminate Flooring Pros And Cons
Conclusion
So, which is the best: Coretec vs Lifeproof vinyl flooring?
Well, we recommend you go for Coretec if you want to get a floor that lasts long, stylish, waterproof, and gives a real hardwood look.
On the other hand, it is recommendable to go for Lifeproof if you are on a budget but want to get a high-quality vinyl flooring option. Lifeproof vinyl plank floor comes with a better warranty, it is easy to install and feels more comfortable to walk on.
Now, it’s up to you.
Which flooring option are you going to pick between Lifeproof and Coretec vinyl plank floors? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
Are both brands fade resistant?
Thanks Joe,
Yes. They are fade resistant.