Life Proof Flooring has been certified as being low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). That means that many companies are now offering low-VOC carpet and vinyl flooring, among other options, to consumers. For example, Life Proof flooring has been verified as having low volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
What is life proof flooring?
LifeProof is Home Depot’s in-house brand of vinyl plank flooring (also known as LVP), which is one of the most durable flooring and popular types of flooring available today.
One of the most appealing aspects of LVP is that it is an excellent substitute for real wood flooring. LifeProof vinyl flooring certainly falls into that category, and if you look it up on Home Depot’s website, you’ll find it in an infinite number of patterns that mimic dozens of different types of wood flooring.
However, there is a significant difference between high-end vinyl plank and budget vinyl plank.
Manufacturer of LifeProof Flooring
Home Depot has exclusive rights to LifeProof vinyl flooring, LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews state that the manufacturer is Halstead New England Industries. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with this brand; you’re not alone. Halstead isn’t exactly well-known.
Home Depot hires Halstead to manufacture LifeProof flooring, and a quick glance at Halstead’s website reveals that some of its offerings are suspiciously similar to Life Proof’s.
LifeProof is essentially just Halstead’s regular LVP, rebranded as “LifeProof” for Home Depot. To be fair, this is a fairly common practise in the business world, where it is referred to as “white-labeling.” We’ll leave it to you to decide whether Halstead is one of the best vinyl plank flooring brands.
This company is a member of the HTMX group. HTMX is well-known for producing high-quality building materials. As a result, make certain that LifeProof comes from a family that creates solid and beautiful floors.
In China, they also manufacture home finishing items. Their main business, however, is making top floors. They then sell to a large number of buyers. They currently employ around 17 people. Everyone works in one of the firm’s branches. Remember that Halstead has two firms.
They’ve been in business for over thirty years. However, for the past five years, they have been selling LifeProof vinyl floors. Halstead has received numerous awards during this time. They all come from the items they make on the floor.
Features of LifeProof Flooring
Every vinyl floor has specifications that help it stand out in the market. The same is true for LifeProof LVPs. These characteristics can entice you even before you look at their lines. So, here’s what keeps LifeProof one step ahead of the competition.
So, does LifeProof make the cut for the best vinyl plank flooring options? The truth is that LifeProof vinyl flooring isn’t particularly innovative—many of its features are industry standards. (Now, if you want to see something truly innovative, take a look at magnetic flooring.)
Water resistant
LifeProof Vinyl is water resistant, but so are most other vinyl planks. If you want water-resistant wood flooring, a fake wood substitute like LifeProof is a great option. However, there is nothing about LifeProof’s waterproof qualities that distinguishes it from any other waterproof option.
Waterproof laminate flooring, such as Mohawk’s RevWood, is now available. If you’re curious about the differences between vinyl plank and laminate flooring, check out our vinyl plank vs. laminate guide.
LifeProof is more water-resistant than real wood, but otherwise it’s fairly standard. Check out some Pergo Extreme reviews if you want the best in waterproof flooring—extremely it’s popular for a reason.
Authentic Texturing
LifeProof Vinyl Flooring’s “Authentic Texturing” is also an industry standard. Another “feature” of LifeProof vinyl flooring is the realistic texturing. This is correct, but most modern vinyl plank options do. Not only LifeProof vinyl plank, but virtually any vinyl plank can be installed as a floating floor.
Installation as floating floor
As previously discussed, one of LifeProof’s main selling points is that it can be installed in a floating style.
However, given that the majority of LifeProof flooring reviews mention how simple it is to break the interlocking clasps. Perhaps it isn’t all that DIY-friendly after all.
The ISOCORE Organization
The vinyl planks in this case have a core that is up to 5 mm rigid. The thickness of these LVPs ranges from 6.5 mm to 8.5 mm. It strengthens them and allows them to last a long time.
The ISOCORE is closed-cell foam. Because of this core, the LifeProof LVPs are completely waterproof. So, if you want to floor a room, such as a kitchen or a bathroom, these LVPs are ideal.
An attached Underlayment
These LVPs will come with an underlayment. It has an HDPE plastic layer as well as a new microbial component. As a result, you won’t have to buy an extra pad before installing them. In addition, the layer makes the LVPs soft and warm to walk on. You will not hear any noise, unlike when walking on tiles or floor floors.
Molds and stains will be a thing of the past with this pad. Don’t be concerned about dirt on your LVPs if you have children or pets. Scratches can also be avoided. These LVPs have a layer that protects them from dents and scratches.
Remember that this make these floors ideal for allergy sufferers. There will be no unpleasant odors on the floors. Unless you bring in something smelly, these LVPs will help keep your home fresh, new, and clean.
Green Concerns
Before or after purchasing these vinyl floors, make certain that they are suitable for use in the home. Unlike some other floors, LifeProof LVPs are always free of harmful substances. Every LifeProof item comes with a pass indicating that it has low VOCs. It implies that they are better for you. However, this does not imply that they are free of VOCs.
So, how does the certificate appear? With the FloorScore pass, you’ll have access to all of their products. This specification demonstrates that the LVPs will have no effect on your home’s air space. Green Guard Gold certification is available in some other LVPs. However, these LifeProof LVPs do not have this pass. However, you should not be concerned. The FloorScore one is sufficient.
Most popular colors for LifeProof flooring
LifeProof vinyl flooring is available in a wide range of wood floor designs and colours. If you want something like ebony flooring but don’t want to spend a million dollars on it, LifeProof might be a good substitute.
In fact, one of the most appealing aspects of LifeProof flooring is the wide variety of hardwood species that can be imitated. We’re not talking about standard hardwoods like oak and hickory here—we’re talking about darkened and bleached wood floor finishes that create stunning contrasts. So, if you want mixed-species wood floor patterns, LifeProof vinyl can totally deliver.
In short
LifeProof LVP flooring was previously known as Allure manufactured by Halstead New England Industries. The LVP’s construction is revolutionary, resulting in a rigid plank that is waterproof and soft to walk on. While the planks are classified as mid-range, they actually have a lot of high-end attributes and features at a low-end price.
The Advantages of LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
There are many advantages to LifeProof vinyl flooring, but we’d be lying if we said there weren’t some drawbacks. Let’s start with the benefits of the product.
1. Low Cost
The Price of LifeProof Vinyl Flooring Is Reasonably Low. LifeProof flooring typically costs between $3 and $4 per square foot, which is reasonable. However, the price is determined by the thickness of the wear layer (which will be discussed further below).
It’s also worth noting that the average cost to install vinyl plank flooring ranges between $1.50 and $6.00 per square foot, making purchasing and installing LifeProof significantly less expensive than purchasing and installing a hardwood floor. Even installing engineered hardwood floors is more expensive—and don’t even get us started on how it compares to installing parquet flooring.
2. Residential warranty available
Many LifeProof Vinyl Flooring reviews mention how wonderful the residential warranty is. Many of the LifeProof reviews we read mentioned how good the product’s residential warranty is. If the print pattern is damaged, the policy includes a limited lifetime warranty for factory defects, water damage, fading, stains, and general wear.
This is without a doubt one of LifeProof flooring’s best features. However, there is a negative aspect to the warranty that we will discuss further below.
3. Low VOC certified
LifeProof Flooring Is Low-VOC Certified. Low-VOC flooring, or flooring that contains fewer volatile organic compounds, is becoming more popular than ever. As a result, many companies now offer low-VOC carpet and low-VOC vinyl flooring. For example, LifeProof flooring is low-VOC certified.
Of course, low-VOC does not imply zero-VOC. If you want something even safer, you should probably look into solid hardwood or non-toxic laminate flooring. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring Reviews frequently mention how simple it is to install.
A common theme in LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews is that it’s a good product for do-it-yourselfers. You can even use it as a floating floor. However, as with the warranty policy, there is a catch here that we will discuss further below.
4. Easy and affordable maintenance
The Care and Maintenance Requirements for LifeProof Flooring are Minimal in comparison to Hardwood. LifeProof vinyl is a scratch-resistant flooring option on the surface (pun intended). Like all LVP, it’s ideal for mudroom flooring or any other location where it might get wet or dirty. It also does not necessitate any special maintenance.
In theory, you’ll never have to refinish LifeProof flooring like you would refinish bamboo or hardwood (the advantage being that you won’t have to worry about the cost of refinishing hardwood flooring, either).
However, some reviewers have noted that LifeProof does not compare favourably to the best wood flooring for dogs in scratch resistance, which is a problem because most wood-look vinyl is purchased specifically for dogs and children.
Radiant heat
Radiant heat can be used with life proof flooring. LifeProof vinyl flooring is marketed as being radiant heat compatible. So, if you’re debating whether to use carpet or hardwood in your bedroom, LifeProof may be the real answer. You don’t have to give up the warmth of a carpet to get the look of wood floors.
Thin and light weight
Vinyl flooring that is resistant to wear and tear is thin and lightweight. Okay, so this is a “pro,” but there is a catch. The LifeProof flooring is thin and light. This makes it much easier to ship and install, but there’s a general rule in flooring (and possibly anything else that’s supposed to be durable) that more weight equals more strength.
There’s a reason why the most durable wood flooring is also the heaviest. So, in exchange for its light weight, LifeProof vinyl flooring makes a sacrifice, which we’ll discuss shortly.
Wide range of design
LifeProof Flooring is available in a wide range of styles. Another thing to consider: when reading LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews, you’ll notice that people are discussing a wide range of products. This is due to the fact that LifeProof is available in an infinite number of styles.
LifeProof can be made to look like wide plank wood flooring. LifeProof that looks like ash flooring, Douglas fir flooring, or even hickory flooring is available (but without the, you know, disadvantages of hickory flooring).
No underlayment
Underlayment is not required for LifeProof flooring. Another benefit of LifeProof vinyl flooring is that it includes its own underlayment. It’s not the only brand to do so, but it’s still an advantage.
Disadvantages of LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
And this is where the drawbacks of vinyl plank flooring become apparent. Unfortunately, LifeProof appears to accentuate rather than solve the inherent flaws of vinyl plank. This is why:
No Environmental Friendly
LifeProof flooring is not an environmentally friendly flooring option because it is made of plastic. It’s difficult to recycle, and the manufacturing process isn’t environmentally friendly. If you care about the environment, you might want to look into sustainable wood flooring instead.
No warranty for second owner
Because Life Proof’s warranty only applies to the first owner, it is not ideal for resale value. The first criticism leveled at LifeProof flooring’s warranty policy is that it only applies to the first owner. As a result, if the first owner sells their home and the flooring is damaged when the second owner moves in, the second owner will be unable to redeem the warranty.
Simply put, LifeProof’s warranty policy falls far short of the policies offered by the majority of the best vinyl plank flooring brands—or even the best hardwood floor brands.
LifeProof’s Commercial Warranty Isn’t Great
So far, we’ve only discussed the residential warranty. That’s because the commercial warranty on LifeProof vinyl flooring is mediocre. The average commercial warranty is only five years long and does not cover a variety of common occurrences such as wear.
This raises the question of whether LifeProof flooring is even intended for high-traffic areas. The answer appears to be no, according to many LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews. But the most vexing issue with LifeProof is that it is seriously breakable.
Product’s interlocking tabs
Of course, none of these issues are remotely comparable to “the big issue.” Many LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews mention how easily the product’s interlocking tabs (which are used to install the flooring) break.
And if you break these tabs, which appears to be simple, the entire plank is rendered useless. That results in A) a lot of waste, B) a lot of frustration, and C) a lot of money wasted.
DIY Damage
DIY Damage Is All Too Common. In fact, despite the fact that LifeProof flooring is supposed to be some of the easiest to install, many LifeProof owners report that they damaged at least a few planks during installation.
This begs the question, do you need to hire a professional to install LifeProof flooring? Because if this is the case, it may be more cost effective to purchase higher-end vinyl plank flooring that is easier to install yourself.
Not allowed outside flooring
Outside Use of LifeProof Flooring is not permitted. Keep looking if you’re looking for outdoor flooring options. In general, vinyl plank flooring can be used outside. Some products, however, fade in direct sunlight (even indoors).
Unfortunately, many of the LifeProof vinyl flooring reviews mention that it is especially vulnerable to sunlight. As a result, it’s probably best to keep it indoors.
Unsatisfied Customers
The biggest issue is that reviewers don’t like it. We’re not going to say LifeProof is a bad app. There are a lot of lower-end EVP flooring options that are significantly worse. However, many reviewers who compare LifeProof to other products, particularly other vinyl products, prefer the alternatives. That is not a good omen.
Summary
Based on their specifications, these LVPs are relatively inexpensive. The lifetime guarantee is appealing. LifeProof LVPs are low in VOCs and have a Floor score pass. They are simple to set up. You’ll find it simple to clean and maintain them. They are watertight.
Costs of LifeProof flooring
Costs of LifeProof LVPs Before you look at how much these LVPs will cost you, keep in mind that they are only available at Home Depot. It’s an online store, but there are locations near you. These prices will vary depending on your location, the set you select, colour, and size.
Expect to pay more if you choose a line with a thick wear layer (12 or 22 mils). In addition, the prices range from $2.59 to $4.39.
You can smile because the warranty terms are pleasant. Every line comes with a lifetime guarantee, but for office use, it depends on the wear layer you select.
Comparison between LifeProof Vinyl Flooring and Other Top Brands
So, what are the best vinyl plank flooring brands, and how does LifeProof stack up? We’ve stacked four top brands that are mentioned below:
Proximity Mills vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
For good reason, Proximity Mills is one of the most popular flooring brands in the country. The company’s products are comparable in price to LifeProof’s, but with better warranties, thicker wear layers, and a far superior purchasing experience (they only sell Proximity Mills at certain flooring stores for more boutique-style customer service).
Furthermore, Proximity Mills is sourced ethically and is fully recyclable. So, if you’re looking for a floor in this price range, we’d recommend Proximity Mills instead.
Doma vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
If you’re looking for vinyl plank flooring that looks great and is also extremely durable, we recommend Doma. Life Proof Flooring has been certified as being low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). That means that many companies are now offering low-VOC carpet and vinyl flooring, among others.
COREtec vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring (by Shaw)
COREtec is well-known for its COREtec Plus line, which incorporates cork into its base layer for added strength. Don’t worry about the pros and cons of cork flooring here; it simply adds bounce and sound-dampening properties to the floor. COREtec was the first to develop WPC vinyl flooring. While it is more expensive than LifeProof flooring, we believe it to be more innovative.
Newton Vinyl Flooring vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
If you’re looking for a low-cost LVP option, we recommend Newton over LifeProof. Newton’s LVP specifications are, for the most part, superior to LifeProof’s, but at a lower cost (and with an arguably superior look).
However, LifeProof has a much larger product line than Newton, so you’re more likely to find a look you like in LifeProof’s catalogue.
Armstrong vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
Armstrong vinyl flooring is also significantly more expensive than LifeProof, but it also has an ultra-strong wear layer made of synthesized diamonds. This feature increases the durability of Armstrong vinyl, and to be honest, LifeProof doesn’t have anything comparable.
NuCore vs. LifeProof Vinyl Flooring
NuCore flooring is roughly the same price as LifeProof flooring, but it does not require a premium for its 20-mil wear layer. It has a lifetime residential warranty and a 15-year commercial warranty (which is less restrictive than LifeProof’s). It’s also one of the brands that include a built-in underlayment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Following are some frequently asked questions related to life proof flooring.
1. Who manufactures LifeProof, and where can I buy it?
LifeProof is manufactured by Halstead New England Industries. In the United States, the brand is owned by and sold exclusively through Home Depot stores.
2. Do I need to hire a professional to install LifeProof LVP?
It is not necessary to have LifeProof LVP professionally installed. It is, however, recommended that any flooring be installed by a professional. You will receive a guaranteed finished product and will not be responsible for any cleanup or damage.
The DIYer, on the other hand, can install LVP with relative ease and save hundreds of dollars by doing so. Fortunately, LifeProof comes with a lifetime warranty, regardless of who instals it.
3. Will LifeProof honor the terms of my Allure warranty?
Before it was renamed LifeProof, the flooring was known as Allure. Both floor brands are only available at Home Depot, which also holds and honours the warranties. However, if your Allure flooring is still covered by a warranty, Home Depot will honour it. Finding an exact match, on the other hand, could be more difficult.
4. Can LifeProof vinyl plank flooring be used in bathrooms?
LifeProof LVP is suitable for any type of floor, including wet areas. Installing in a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room is a great idea because of the antimicrobial finish and 100 percent waterproof design. Not only will you have a lovely floor, but it will also withstand spills and leaks and come with a lifetime warranty.
5. Is LifeProof flooring real wood?
Lifeproof is a low-cost alternative to hardwood flooring. Our hardwood-look vinyl flooring is embossed to look and feel like real hardwood, but without the usual maintenance issues.
6. What kind of flooring is Lifeproof?
Image result for what is lifeproof flooring made of LifeProof flooring is still vinyl plank, so you won’t have to worry about the disadvantages of solid or engineered wood. However, if you’re looking for high-performance luxury vinyl, there are better options available.
7. How long does Lifeproof flooring last?
At a reasonable price, the LifeProof LVPs with the 12-mil layer can last for more than 15 years without losing their lustre. Even though the colors are limited, you can find something for your home. They come in wood and stone finishes.
8. Does Lifeproof flooring have Formaldehyde?
The Home Depot’s product testing programme is incredibly rigorous. LifeProof Luxury Vinyl Flooring products have been tested for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals to the most recent standards.
9. Is LifeProof flooring scratch resistant?
LifeProof vinyl flooring is scratch and stain resistant. With four children and a dog, the durability of our vinyl basement floor was critical.
10. Is LifeProof flooring rigid core?
Lifeproof vinyl plank flooring is a low-cost, waterproof rigid core EVP (engineered vinyl plank) sold exclusively at Home Depot for $2.69 to $3.99 per square foot.
Conclusion
If you prefer vinyl floors with a wood look, LifeProof LVPs are the best option for you. There are a few that have a stone look to them. The installation of these vinyl planks will be simple. Using embossing technology, the company gives these LVPs a wood look. It enhances their appearance.