Laminate, LVP and PVC-free: what's the difference?
- Laminate: a wood-based core with a printed wood look and a hard wear layer on top. Today's waterproof laminates (like Mohawk RevWood) handle spills and pets, and laminate is PVC-free.
- LVP (luxury vinyl plank): a flexible vinyl plank, waterproof through and through. Soft and quiet underfoot.
- PVC-free resilient (like Mohawk PureTech): The waterproof durability of a rigid vinyl floor, made entirely without vinyl or phthalates using sustainable mineral and plant cores.
We'll help you choose based on the room, pets, kids and how you want it to feel underfoot.
PVC-free options
If you'd rather avoid PVC in your home, laminate and PVC-free plank lines like Mohawk PureTech give you a waterproof, wood-look floor without vinyl. Ask to see them at the showroom.
Why the subfloor matters
Click-together floors are only as flat as what's underneath. Dips and humps cause hollow spots, clicking, gaps and failed locking joints. Before any plank goes down, we check the subfloor and level it, and use the right underlayment for the product. That step is what keeps these floors flat, quiet and under warranty.
How an installation works
- 1In-home estimate. We measure, check the subfloor for flatness and moisture, and bring samples. Or visit the showroom at 209 N Tennessee St, Suite E, by appointment.
- 2Choose and order. You pick the product and get a written estimate.
- 3Prep. Old flooring comes out and the subfloor is leveled.
- 4Install. Planks laid over the right underlayment, with transitions and trim finished.
- 5Walkthrough. We walk the floor with you before we call it done.
What goes into the price
Every home is different, so we price after an in-home visit. What moves the number:
- The product line and plank size
- How much leveling the subfloor needs
- Removing and hauling away the old floor
- Underlayment, transitions and trim
- Stairs and number of rooms
You get a written estimate with the scope spelled out, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Reviews
“We had our entire first floor (tile/carpet) ripped up and replaced with RevWood. … Every member of the crew was considerate, friendly, and respectful of our home. … We highly recommend them!!”
Frequently asked questions
Is laminate waterproof?
Many newer laminates are, including lines like Mohawk RevWood. Older and budget laminates aren't, so check the product. We'll point out which ones are.
Which is better, laminate or LVP?
Laminate feels harder and more like wood underfoot and is PVC-free. LVP is softer, quieter and fully vinyl. Both are waterproof in their better lines. It comes down to the room and what you prefer.
Can laminate or LVP go over my existing floor?
Sometimes, if the existing floor is flat and solid. Usually we remove it so we can level the subfloor properly. We'll tell you after we check.
Do these floors work with pets?
Yes. Good laminate and LVP lines resist scratches and are waterproof, which is why they're popular in homes with dogs.
How long does installation take?
Most homes take 1 to 3 days, and you can walk on it as soon as it's down.
How much does laminate or LVP installation cost?
It depends on the product, the subfloor and the rooms. We give a written estimate after a free in-home visit, so the price reflects your home, not an average.