I have installed this in two rooms great flooring easy to install keep groves clean .check the ribs make sure they are cracked or chiped , follow instructions take your time and when you are done admire your new floor. I left two strips on my deck for two months still good .
Thanks for this video! My wife and I are in the market for new flooring and considering this product and were worried about the durability with only 6 mil, thank you for talking about your personal experience with it!
Karndean makes some really nice vinyl floors that are a little more expensive and higher end. I just did a video on one of their "loose lay" floors that is the easiest floor I ever installed. I also like Lifeproof for looks and Nucore for ease of installation.
I have installed a ton of this flooring. Have had zero issues. Also have installed a ton of Pergo. Found both to be pretty easy to install. Must say that this stuff is tough. Drooped hammers, screwdrivers. etc on it. No damage.
Hello! We are planning to have this product professionally installed throughout our entire home. We have a mix of carpet and ceramic tile currently. We are told we can have life proof installed over the tile. What are your honest thoughts about installing over ceramic in an old house with a floor that likely needs leveled? Thanks!
I am curious, I put down a very cheap and thin EVP in my cabin in Michigan (floor is over the crawl space, in the winter there is no heat and in the summer when we are not there there is no AC), but it buckled and contracted a ton. I assumed it was because it was only 4mm and was thinking that the stiffer board (7mm or more) and better quality locking system would fix that. Am I wrong and should I not put this down in a cabin without climate control?
You should t have a problem with not having climate control with a thicker LVP (thicker the better) just be SURE to leave a lot of room for expansion at the perimeter of the room.
We just installed this in kitchen. You are spot on in your describing the product. It is very nice and I believe it will hold up well under normal use (we won't take a grinder to it like i saw in one video). The installation was a bit harder than Laminate that we had installed in other areas. but not a lot harder. We did notice that the long track is easily damaged, so be very careful with it when you are joining it and like you said, don't lock down the end until you have it just right. Overall we did a great job..we did have a little difficulty in doorways...getting it under the jams. A few spots will need a little caulk to hide what molding won't. But, the savings by installing ourselves was necessary and worth it. We are happy with Lifeproof flooring.
Planning on installing 400 sq ft of LifeProof MSI Devon Oak 6x36 rigid core LVP in my mobile home. I use it as a summer camp, so it is pretty much only climate controlled on the weekends in the summer months. No climate control in the winter. I know you can’t guarantee anything, but if this was your trailer, would you install this product for this application ? Hard to find any product that is recommended for these conditions without paying a ton for it. I do want it to look good, but it is still just a camp, lol.
I was hoping you would feel that way. I was thinking that with the limited space of a trailer, and the rigid core construction in the flooring, the expansion/contraction would not be quite as much of a factor. Like you said, no guarantee, but it makes me feel a little better about the decision getting the opinion of a professional floor installer like yourself.
One more question, lol. Being that there is such a wide range of temperature variation, is it still ok to go with the recommended 1/4” wall gap, or should I go with 3/8 to be safe ? Thanks, your help is much appreciated !
Hi there! Just want to be clear. I am buying LifeProof LVP Dusk Cherry with 6 mil wear layer for3.19 per sq ft. and having it installed. I went through 8 boxes of different colors to finally choose this one which i love. I saw online they offer one that looks identical on-line called Shea Oak with 20 mil wear layer for 3.49 per sq ft. Its for my house . Im unable to get it fast enough to see if same and nobody at store can tell me if its same except for thicker wear layer. You don't think I need to worry about the thicker wear layer and just trust the 6 mil? Thank you for your time and videos! Stephen
Lifetime warranty if you follow the directions, understood. Taking that off the table, this question deals with installing over tile which is all pretty flat, good surface, normal deviations for grout lines. With that said the grout lines still scare a little for thoughts over time and use, heard flooring over time wants to form to what is underneath. Of course don't want to see dips, deviations, etc. Can an underlayment be used (easycut 2mm FloorComfort) to better flatten out those grout lines for the LifeProof floor? Again, understand about the warranty, asking more your thoughts on an underlayment (Pro's / Con's) since you have installed the floor and seen it over time. Thank you for any help/advice.
So the issue I have with underlayment, besides warranty, is that Lifeproof already has an attached underlayment so when you use a 2nd underlayment there is a good chance that the floor Is going to have to much "give" and will move to much when you walk on it, because of the extra padding. Now, you might say you like the idea of feeling soft on the knee or that this doesn't bother you. You might not even notice it to much if you use a firm product, But the problem you potentially create could be really bad. I can't tell you how many times over the years I've seen people try to do this with laminate because of unlevel subfloors, Mexican Clay, or even just really big grout joints they were worried about. Here's what happens when you step on a floor with to much cushion under it, the joints sometimes start to separate. Locking systems aren't strong enough to hold floors together that flex every time someone walks on them. I would be especially worried about the end joints because of the easy drop down locking systems floors have switched to, the ends of the boards aren't truly locked together. They are just sitting on top of each other. On a personal and embarrassing note, One of the first jobs I installed over 20 years ago was for my sister. I bought her the best laminate flooring at the time (Wilsonart) and the most expensive padding my Wilsonart distributor sold. This was when laminates were fairly new to the market and had to be glued together. Well, that padding they sold me was so thick it was like 1/2" and gave so much, it was crazy . Lol. You could almost use this padding as a mattress topper. Lol. I can laugh now but what a nightmare back then. My sister still talks about it. We installed the floor (remember glued together) with the giant padding. Let me tell you it was a light beech color laminate and the place looked and felt like a basketball court. It was so springy, only thing missing was the basketball basket. It wasn't even a week before my sister called, her whole floor was separating and coming apart. How embarrassing! My own sisters house! Sorry for the long story you got me thinking. Personally, what I would do and its cheaper and you will have a much better result, is fill the grout joints in with a flat trowel and some leveling patch. You can buy a bag and mix it up or they even sell some that are premixed. This way you have a solid surface. This is what I do all the time and what any good flooring professional would do. You may not even have to do that they say that these newer Luxury Vinyl's like Lifeproof won't telegraph grout joints through the floor anymore, but who knows they haven't been around THAT long to truly be tested it over time. Again, sorry for the long answer. Please if you have any more questions just let me know. Thanks, Tim
@@JonesKnows First, thank you for the quick reply, everything you stated makes complete sense. I am working with about 1500sq feet of space (large living room, three bedrooms, 1 bath and kitchen) that all feeds into each other. Right now their are about 5 different types of tile (horrible looking) so I wanted one water resistant wood looking floor instead that worked in the rooms but also bathroom/kitchen (I bought the LifeProof Alpine Wood prior to seeing your videos). I would have just removed the tile but again its 1500sq+ and in case this stuff (laminate) was ever removed later I didn't want just concrete to be there and instead the original tile so nothing would need to be done immediately if not so desired + who knows what's under their and fixes I would need to do. I have removed a small area of some broken tiles and filled that area in with Henry Premixed patch n'Level to even and level it out, worked nicely and was easy to do. I had some other broken tiles where the living room met an addition to the house, cement was actually broken up there so cleaned it up and as you stated already had planned to use some LevelQuick there to again level/even it all out. Again, the grout lines are not bad, nothing crazy and def. not deeper than 1/8 (even less really, probably 1/16) (I read: Remember, laminate flooring with attached underlayment padding can accept a deviance of 1/8th of an inch over 40 inches.) I just thought maybe the thin 2mm underlayment would give a little more cushion and relieve any possible deviations. But again I completely get what you are saying, you have done this longer than my personal DIY projects so I will take your advice and save some money (cost of underlayment). Do you think I need to fill the grout lines (1500sq+ remember)... I read the same thing in my prepping for this project but again looking over all the styles of tile I have (5 types) they really aren't that protruding or dipping, the largest dips are in the 12x12 tiles (majority are 6x6) and even in the 12x12 they aren't that deep + where all the tiles come together they did a good job of it all being level. As you said about yourself in another video, I too am a perfectionist so any small non-level area I see I freak out. Thanks again for your help.
I know in your video you mentioned this is not recommended if you're in a condo. What would you suggest for a condo requiring "cork not less than one quarter inch and half in plywood and/or other effective soundproofing material"? Currently we have carpeting installed over the concrete.
The best option for a condo is to find one without a backing that allows you to put a sound rated underlayment. OR put down plywood then the Lifeproof or Nucore etc with attached underlayment
If you’re applying to concrete on a bottom level you may be fine. I had my upstairs neighbors install hard surface floors above me years ago & they didn’t have any sound barrier & it was horrible. They had to rip them out per HOA regulation. That said, since I lived on the bottom floor, I could install anything.
Would you trust the Home Depot installers to install LifeProof in living room, kitchen, hallway and entryway? Or should I look for independent flooring installers?
I am about to install the multi size product in my home. I watched your video on how to center the flooring to your hall. my problem is my hall is exactly 3 small, 3 medium and 3 large for the width. no way to get this centered to the hall and not have a small price on one end
Hi,I am looking to replace carpet with vinyl flooring in my second floor, looking for 20 mil water proof,but I want to reduce noise what should I use or put underneath
That's for the honest appraisal. I'll check out your installation vids. My wife likes this at Home Depot. I'm hoping it holds up as we have lots of children and animals.
Most of the products that Home Depot sells are pretty decent. If you sent a link it didn't come through. For kids and pets I always recommend products that are medium in color and textured. Medium colors and textures hide scratching and wear. Really dark and really light colors show everything. Products that are textured hide scratches. You don't want something that's smooth because it will show every scratch. You also want to make sure you put felt protection on all the furniture legs this will also prevent scratches.
Thanks…I am considering this brand…one question…on a different video the guy said whether or not you have a pad on the plank, you still need another pad under…is this true…seems odd…I will have it professionally installed. Thanks for the video.
Thinking about this wall to wall in my kitchen, pantry, breakfast and laundry rooms, including under the new cabinets. Most of my living space in my 80-plus-year-old house is red oak hardwood, and plan to replace the vinyl sheet flooring with a light grey or silver-tan hue as a contrast, maybe a herringbone pattern. I will probably use a Home Depot installer to avoid any warranty issues.
It really depends on which line you are looking at I believe triumph has like 9 different lines and all have different specs! Make sure you are comparing apples to apples
@@JonesKnows you should have explained a little more, such as gave a little more detail to the actual question. What would be apples to apples, give insight. Guide her.
@@savelinafilemoni8656 I'm sure he'd expound if she responded with her specific needs. She asked him to compare apples to apples bc she didn't specify what exact line of the brands she wanted compared.
I put down the Allure flooring 8 years ago and it is awesome (I agree it was hard to put down). Is the Lifeproof quality just as good as when it was made by Allure?
Allure was one of the first floating and locking Luxury vinyl's that I installed years ago before it was really popular. I use to be a contractor for Home Depot and I remember one of my installers that worked for me always complained about having to install Allure. Personally I didn't mind installing Allure. I remember telling him to get use to it because this is the next thing. Now LVP is more popular then laminate. I think Lifeproof is way better then Allure when it come to quality and much easier to install.
I loved the way you explained things! Thank you so much! You look very experienced and knowledgeable of what you're talking about. Max is adorable and having him by your side in the video made it much more fun to watch and added a lot of credibility to the LVP you're reviewing. hahahaahha.
Thank you for your response!!! Where is the best place to purchase solid treads for stairs? Once I remove carpet from stairs; are you stating that I can stain what's underneath and,or purchase solid treads for my stairs. My stairs width are about 33" width.
Great video and Channel My question is about installing it on a 2 car garage Will the floor get damaged with daily driving in and out of the garage? What about the ocasional oil dripp? Turning the tires a little to adjust entering or exiting the garage? Would that be an issue? Thanks!
For the quietest I would go with NuCore because they have cork on the back, plus they have an approved pad they sell at floor n decor that they allow. Most brands don’t allow the use of any additional pad besides the one attached.
Thanks for the video--love your cat! We are looking at putting in new flooring in our entire lower level--about 1400 sq ft. Most of the issues I've read about deal with messed up HD orders and bad contractors/ installers. How do I find a really good, reputable flooring installer? What should I look for and what questions should I ask? Also, what's a reasonable install rate per sq ft for tear up, prep and install? Thanks!
Generally installers from flooring stores alone are reputable and not shoe makers! Buy from them and use there installers and you should have no problems if things go wrong! If it is a diy job you will be dead before you get a resolution from a warranty claim! Just sayin!
Tim, I'm putting lifeproof over particleboard. As it transitions into the kitchen it is 50 year old vinyl. Don't want to pull that up for concerns about asbestos. Will that tiny step between particleboard and linoleum "telegraph" through the vinyl plank?
Hello, I am trying to confirm if you HAVE to have a transition in every doorway, even with the same lifeproof flooring is used in both the hallway, bedroom, bathroom 1000 feet of same floor over 5 rooms and 2 baths in order to not void the warranty.
I have stick and peel vinyl in my downstairs bathroom. Can I put this above that or should I tear it off before installing? Also if water gets Beneath this will it ruin it?
Yes you can put it over the existing peel & stick . It is completely waterproof so, no, water won’t ruin it if it gets under it, but if you are worried you can silicone the perimeter of the room.
Great video I am going to install this product in my kitchen but there is a slight dip or belly of 3/8 inch over 6 foot area is that a concern? And your advice..thanks
@@stevehering8069 if its is consistant from end to end you should be ok but if not it could bow on you and come apart at the seems I would recommend adding weight on top as you go and making sure to allow for expansion! I had the same problem and so far so good but my refrigerator holds down one of the ends and a stove the other so that helps!
We are wanting to go with lifeproof and fell in love with the nutmeg hickory- however... it is beveled and with 3 little kids and dogs I fell like this may make it hard to clean. Our second choice was sterling oak however the wear layer is only 6mil- supposedly there is the same exact color though with a 22mil wear layer called Grey Birch- its a special order and only $300 more total. What are your thought on paying the little extra for the extra mil layer and what are you thoughts on the beveled edges? I have friends that keep telling me to look at mohawk waterproof vinyl but Ive already done all the research on lifeproof- I'd hate to start all over.
I wanted to do the Mohawk because of that thick wear layer but lowes didn't have them and didn't know when they'd get more. Went with the lifeproof🤷♂️
My adult disabled son uses a power wheelchair. How would this flooring hold up? He usually sits in the same spot in his bedroom to watch tv. Would the weight of the chair along with his 140 pounds cause indentations?
Hey Cathy, I'm in the process of installing this (lifeproof from home depot) floor for the first time, but have installed hundreds of floors similar. What I've found matters most is floor preparation. If your subfloor is sound, I don't see there being an issue with your son's wheelchair. This floor is tough! Like he said in the video it has some sort of solid core. This is obvious when working with it as I use a score and snap method to cut, and you can really feel it! It feels like cutting/snapping plexiglass. Good luck with whatever you chose!
@@johnd8751 Thank you for your response. We are on a slab so sounds like we should be okay. Right now we have carpet in his room and laminate in other areas which will all need to be taken up and replaced with life proof flooring. Thanks again.
No problem Cathy, glad to help! Yeah just make sure you/they scrape up/remove any lumps from any glue, or any other leftovers from the old carpet/linoleum. You might want to fill any low spots and or fastener holes etc first. Keep in mind the lifeproof will be much stiffer than than the carpet and linoleum and will have a harder time conforming to lows spots. Home depot carries a product called 'henry 549 feather finish' that would work well for small patches, or consider floor leveler for bigger areas/pockets.
Is there carpet rip up & furniture moving? Is it one open room like a living room/kitchen or bedrooms? Baseboard or Quarter round? If it’s empty and ready with no rip up then yea it’s a little high!
Just ripped out carpeting in my basement because we had a little water after a bad storm which soaked most of the pad underneath. I was looking at Lifeproof vinyl plank flooring as a replacment and learned from your video that an underlayment will void the warranty. Do you have any suggestions for a vinyl flooring I can use in a basement with some sort of an underlayment such as DMX Airflow or a moisture barrier? Although we are doing what we can to prevent water in the future I'm still worried it may happen again. Thanks in advance
Great video! I am getting my Lifeproof vinyl flooring tomorrow and this video is very helpful! Do you get a lot of past customers ever complaining about LVF after a few years?
Thanks so much! No I haven’t had any complaints on any LVP Flooring I’ve installed. I’ve had people call me back out after a few years and pay me to fix issues with Laminate ( usually after they’ve had a water damage) but never on Vinyl. The stuffs practically indestructible so that helps! Lol Good Luck with your install and let me know if you have any questions!
Thank you so much! I am in love with my flooring. What product do you recommend I clean the floors with? After the installation, the floors are very dusty.
Waterproof? Lifeproof....I have a puppy that I intend leaving gated in the kitchen while I am at work until she is trained. If she misses the doggy pad, and I am unable to attend to it for hours, well the urine damage this floor?
As far as water goes it can't damage Lifeproof I've left it underwater for over a month with no damage at all. Urine I would not want to leave for prolonged periods of time but if its cleaned up within 24 hours you won't have a problem. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Could you glue it on stairs? Or what is the best options on stairs? I currently have carpet and two big dogs and I don’t know what material I should use on my stairs, I would love wood but with a lot of traffic in my house I don’t think is the best option.
Sorry TH-cam was not showing me replies to my replies. I don't really like it on stairs. I always do solid oak treads and stain them to match flooring. If you do put it on stairs it must be glued. But you also have to buy a stair nose for the front of step. I'm just not a fan of 2 piece steps stairnose with flooring. Solid oak treads last forever
Was looking at the LifeProof Scratch Stone floor and found some reviews that were a little concerning. My biggest fear is scratching due to two very large dogs. I read to look for a good AC rating and found AquaGuard 12mm at Floor and Decor with an AC5 rating. I do like the scratch stone look but fear scratches. Would you prefer one floor over the other? Price is comparable.
Well I have AquaGuard in my own house So....I have been very happy with it and I have cats that like to run marathons around the house and a 120lb Lab not a single scratch in the 2 years it’s been down. We love it!
The scratch stone is what we just put in our kitchen. Believe me, if you were to get a scratch on this, you would not even know it! This pattern is designed to hide anything! The name says it all...scratch stone! lol...also, the pattern looks like it has white paint splatters, as well...I like the look a lot in my kitchen. It may be a bit much for some people, though. Too me...it's beautiful!
A humidity gauge is not required or necessary. If you had one than it wouldn’t hurt to use it but you don’t need to spend a ton of money buying one. Since this is an Engineered floor they have the ability to shrink & expand, but that doesn’t mean that they will drastically enough to cause problems. It is important to follow the manufacturers installation guidelines amongst other things recommends leaving a 1/2” expansion around the perimeter of the rooms and also silicon the perimeter of the room when you finish the install. One of the most important things is to keep your A/C on cool from the time the wood is delivered and keep it at a consistent temp year round.
♥️ thank you Jones for your informative videos , I'm a new subscriber. Please can you recommend a brand that you feel is as good as LifeProof regarding scratching and dents however is very quiet when you walk on it? Thank you , I don't mind paying a premium for quieting sound sound deadening.
Right in the nick of time "Jones":). I did my bathroom with LifeProof. Turned out great. I've decided to do the rest of my condo. This is a small ground floor condo, no basement, on fairly level, smooth, intact concrete. My only concern is with regard to the floors feeling super cold on the feet in the colder months of winter? If it were you doing your home and wanted the durability, level of water resistance, and no need for glue, with a few rugs do you think LifeProof will fit the bill? It's a pretty good product. Or is there a similar product that you know of that's thicker than 6.5 mil that would be more appropriate? I installed the stuff in the bathroom over very level intact ceramic with less than 1/4 inch grout lines so that existing floor created another barrier and that floor didn't feel cold at all last winter. Maybe it would be warmer doing the rest of my place with the LifeProof than I think? Your thoughts? Thanks for the time you donated with your informative video and sharing your experience and expertise:)
Before picking a product I always ask what kind of traffic you get in your home. Pets ? Lots of grandkids or kids ? Lots of entertaining friends ? ect ? If you don't get a lot of traffic then your candidate for almost any floor. If you are going to have kids, pets, ect. Then you should probably consider looking into the wear layer. Nucore does have a thicker wear layer but I honestly think that Lifeproof looks more authentic. If your really worried about cold then you can put radiant heating under the floor. But I do think that vinyl is not nearly as cold as tile. I will say that Nucore has a lot more choices as far as colors and styles. I'm not sure if you have seen any of my other videos but I do have one call Nucore vs Lifeproof Round 2 that breaks down which one I think looks the best. Its a series I'm doing on the difference between the two products. I also have a video coming out in a couple days that shows almost all the Nucore colors. I hope I answered all your questions. Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner but we're getting ready for a hurricane down here in Florida.
@@JonesKnows No stores around here seem to carry the Nucore. (Michigan) I'll keep looking. Yes I've watched several of your other videos. I have a feeling it may be more than a couple days for your next video, but I'm subscribed and will be aware when you eventually get it done. If I see it soon, well...that'll be a good sign:) Sorry you guys are having to prepare for this dangerous storm. And it's getting stronger. I was raised in Tampa in the 60's/70's so I'm very aware of the aftermath for sure. I have relatives in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Niceville. And several friends in Miami. Just gotta hang in there and ride it out and hope for the best,. The Atlantic is so very unforgiving and unpredictable for sure. Such a bummer:( Thanks for your replies at such a uncertain time. I appreciate you:) Hope you guys aren't super close to the water? Stay safe and thanks again:).
I live in south Florida now but I lived in Tampa for a few years in the early 2000s. Usually people move from Michigan to Tampa, I would love to move somewhere north. A state that has seasons and snow. lol. I've been to Lavonia, Michigan once. It was during winter and I remember there was salt all over the roads. I had never seen snow before I went and as soon as I get there my friend who picked me up at the airport asked me to drive, in the snow. Lol. Having never seen snow, it was an experience to say the least. I figured out in a hurry how to drive in the snow. This has to be the slowest moving hurricane of all time. Now all the stores are closed and we just have to wait for the storm to pass eventually. My next video in the series should be out before the weekend. www.flooranddecor.com/stores I tried to paste the link for the store locator but I don't know if the link will come through. Thanks for watching, Tim
@@tvhsgbb842 Floor is holding up great. I just looked in my photos on my Mac, (I took pics as I was working on my bathroom floor)..time flew by, I did that floor Feb 2018! So it's been "lived on" for 20+ months now. Zero issues! It looks as good today as it did when I installed it. Great product! I've been in a quandary as to what I'll do the rest of my condo. The LifeProof Shadow Hickory I put on my bathroom floor looks great, but might be a tad too dark for my entire condo:). When I did the bathroom it was my "pilot room" to test the product. Although it looks beautiful, I want something a bit lighter for the rest of my place:)
I put the Allure in my kitchen a few years ago and have been satisfied with it. I was looking into the Lifeproof to put in 3 bedrooms but now I'm looking into the Nucore you mentioned. The Allure wasn't hard to install but you'd better make sure that it was perfectly where you wanted it and that it was locked before moving on to the next. Going to research the Nucore for installation info now. Thanks for the review
Jones, we would love your input on something. It’s just my wife & I and our six cats in our house. We have found a Smartcore Ultra pattern that we love. The Smartcore has a 12 mil wear layer. Should we shy away from it though because it’s not a 20 mil ?? The more research we do, we just keep seeing people that say that you SHOULD NOT buy anything that’s less than 20 mil & that WPC is way way worse than SPC. PLEASE HELP!!! Arrrrrrgggghhhh!!! 😣😣🤦♂️🤦♂️ All this is driving us crazy!! 😢
I just installed 1,450 sq ft of life proof vinyl plank in my house. Easy to install when installing forwards, but backwards was a pain. No idea how it’ll hold up but so far so good.
Technically it should have a controlled climate, but I think that since it won't be in a large area it should be ok. Normally ac keeps the floor from expanding and shrinking a lot which would be a really big problem in a house or big room. If it were me I would take the chance and put it in. If you want to put something that is a sure thing you can put in a glue down vinyl product with a 2 part epoxy and you will never have any problems.
I am looking to install this in my bathroom with two splash crazy kids and I live in the redwoods so rocks and pine needles are always tracked in. I have read online this floor scratches easily. Is this the best floor to put down?
I think you'll be fine. The water wont hurt it at all. and I doubt you & a couple kids will scratch it unless they are in the habit of dragging unprotected furniture all over it. I think the things you've seen online where people say it scratches they are talking about furniture being moved on it with no felt on the legs to protect the floor. You would have to REALLY try and gouge it to get it to scratch, but if you were really worried about it There are ceramic tiles that are pretty much scratch proof, but they are also harder to keep clean and a lot harder to install! The good thing about vinyl is it can be laid down pretty quick & easily and taken up quickly if you don't like how its holding up and you're not out a ton of money for a bathroom!
That will depend on a lot of things. Like the type of water, how long it was under the water so on and so forth! Try it and see, nothing is fool proof! Use a pad if on concrete! Oh and this stuff is made to float so if nothing is holding it down it could float away in a flood!
I’ve had two other brands put in a couple rooms. One was NuCore. Both had major issues with the interlocking part. For me, that part would crack/break easily. It was very frustrating. I had to be very gentle when putting them together. Does Lifeproof have this issue? Or was I simply putting it together wrong?
Love your videos! Thanks for sharing your knowledge! If you were out here (WA State) we would hire you to install! Question: How would you move a 5’ tall (HEAVY) safe around to install Lifeproof floors so you don’t damage them? You answered awhile back that Lifeproof can handle a large safe (verified by someone who did it- but only gave vague replies about moving the safe & I don’t want to be g him! Lol). Could you maybe video how you move safes like that next time you come across one? And label the video with safe in it because I know (by going to blogs) that there are people wanting this info! Thanks! 👍
You want to put the safe on Masonite, they sell it at Home Depot and you cut it to size. It will protect the floor. Lay the floor as close as you can to the safe put the Masonite on the floor put safe on the Masonite (cat walk it use 2 people) lay the rest of the floor where the safe was then slide the safe back into place and either take the Masonite out or you can leave it under to extra protect the floor for the future. I’ll definitely do a video on it next time I come across a safe or super heavy furniture! Thanks for the recommendation and for watching!!
I am considering installing this over 12x12 ceramic tile in my kitchen and living room. Roughly 800 square feet. Will this be a problem as far as grout lines showing up over time. Tile is 98 percent flat. I mean a few imperfections here and there but is in really good shape.
How would you recommend finding a good flooring contractor? Usually when I am specifically searching nearby all I’m seeing is handymen that like you note probably wouldn’t install as well Would you trust whoever Home Depot would recommend? (I haven’t checked or asked HD just curious)
The box stores have a lot of shoemakers along with some very good installers! You just never know who you get! Personally I would go to a store that just caters to floors! They will give you a warranty and stand by it because they are the ones who installed it!
Just started looking into vinyl flooring and thank you for this video you gave me great insight. I looked through most of the reviews and still have a couple of questions. 1) I know you said it was ok to place on tile floor but what thickness (4mm,5mm,8mm, and etc) would you recommend that looks and feels like real wood but won't have a issues with door areas and transitioning to tile areas? 2) what is the difference between LVT and LVP? Thanks
LVT=Luxury Vinyl Tile LVP=Luxury Vinyl Plank LVT looks like Stone or ceramic tile & LVP looks like wood flooring. Anything over 5mm would be fine over tile.
Its easy to install, but it requires that you cut the boards with saws instead of just a razor knife. So as long as you have some saws and don't mind the using them then its a great product to work with.
Hey there Jones, my local store has a brand called CoreLogic and Twelve Oaks. Still a 20 mil wear layer. But I can't find much of anything online about them. Any good?
Because they’re trash. I literally just had a local shop tell me that Twelve Oaks was better than Provenza & Flooret and I just walked away shaking my head.
No I usually do solid treads stained to match the vinyl because they're more durable. I really don't like vinyl on stairs. Actually I really don't like anything on stairs that uses a stair nose. I think stair nose are nothing but problems and they really don't look that good. I like one piece steps. Some companies make one piece vinyl steps.
Lifeproof does not need a moisture barrier. I couldn't believe that they don't want you to use one. So the first time I installed it I looked and researched it for hours and found no exceptions where they said it was okay to use a moisture barrier. So if you use one it will most likely void your warranty. I like to follow manufacture directions for installation exactly how they want you to, so if there is ever a warranty claim they can't get out of responsibly by blaming it on installation error.
@@JonesKnows I am so conflicted on this. I thought it did not need a moisture barrier per Home Depot telling me but I was at Floor and decor today and multiple people confirmed that their very similar backed floors needed one and said they would never recommend doing it without a barrier. Although that would be a bit easier to install without. Also I am torn 50/50 between a Lifeproof color and a color I saw today by NuCore. They are both very nice. Lifeproof with their backing and NuCore with a cork backing that they say needs a moisture barrier. With that not being an issue can you please advise me the pros and Cons of the two so I can decide? also My husband an i are very handy. We have done full shower tear out and redos and floating floors etc but we are doing about 1500 sq feet pretty of this. Pretty much out entire bottom floor and I want to try and so it with little to no transitions So I know it might not be possible to have at least 6 inches at every wall. Of course we can adjust the lengths always to account for the 8 inches on the end just not the last long row against all walls. What is your suggestion in this situation.
If installing on basement concrete use the brand that calls for underlayment! Moisture is not good for anything no matter what they tell you! And trying to get them to honor a warranty, well, you will be dead before that happens!
I am selling a 40 year old rental house, and thinking about installing this flooring in the "family room", and the kitchen/dining room. What kind of damage ( if any) would you expect to see from dinning room chairs and computer chairs with rollers used on these floors ?
Its important to put felt protection on the legs of all chairs and the floor will be fine. Roller chairs I always recommend putting a clear mat that they make for office desk chairs. I've had the chairs without the mat and not had a problem, but it better to be safe then sorry.
Good video! Thanks! I can tell you're an expert. Considering life proof fresh oak. Love the color! I'm concerned about the thin wear layer but I think you made great points. Do have any experience with the fresh oak color? I may have home depot pros complete the entire job (whole house about 1200 sq feet). I couldn't get it to click together well in my test box that I purchased. Thanks again!
Thank You! Fresh Oak is a great color! That’s one thing about Lifeproof they have some GREAT colors! I always say when you’re deciding between some comparable floors in price and specs etc to go with the one that has the best color to you! so you MUST choose a floor that you will enjoy looking at every day!!
I bought it when it was allure and put it directly over my concrete floor in my basement. I live in Canada and even in the winter, it feels warm. I also put it in my front entrance at work where wheelchairs are coming in and out with snow covered wheels and it has lasted for 8 years with no issues. Love this stuff. Just a little hard to put together.
@@johngalt1967 Yes, insulated and heated but is always cooler than the rest of the house. The floor still does not have that chill that concrete or tile has.
I am getting ready to DIY our entire house and I noticed that you almost mentioned Nucore in this video. I know you have videos regarding Nucore too, but which do you prefer and why?
I like them both but the Nucore might install slightly better but I like the way Lifeproof looks better! They are SO similar in quality so I say go with the one that you find the color you like best! You really can’t go wrong with either one!
Planning to put this down in my house, over underfloor heating and then in the bedrooms use rugs. Do you think this will create a heat problem with the flooring? I read in the warranty the floor is not supposed to be more than 85 degrees itself. Thanks.
Heating under the flooring is not a problem as long as its 1/2 below the flooring. It can not be raised over 85 degrees of course. You can always check with the manufacture of the heating system if your not sure.
The one thing about vinyl flooring is there is a lot of expansion with the temperatures. Putting it over a heated floor and there could be quite a bit of expansion and contraction. I would look into this further before I did it.
Do Lifeproof product sell shoe moudling? I want to do my 2nd floor which is about 575 sqft. No experience in flooring so watching as much video as I can before I start.
Thanks for this videos, just subscribed I am thinking of getting the life proof vinyl flooring for basement family room. Would be installing it over 12x12 tiled floor in the basement about 530sqft space. 1. I believe life proof can be installed straight over tile floor ? 2. life proof is $3.19 per sqft, which you mention is middle of the pack. You mentioned finding few broken pieces. What brand do you find a better quality or alternative in the same price point or better product for bit more that you would recommend. 3. If I get homedepot to install it, is the installation warranted and how long if you know? 4. Any under recommendations for basement install.
Thanks for Subscribing. Yes it can be installed directly over tile flooring. As far as other brands Shaw and Karndean are also nice and might cost just a little more. Nucore is slightly less depending on color since the prices vary. Be careful with Home Depot I use to install for them and it's hit or miss depending on who they send out since they subcontract all their installations. I would suggest hiring your own installer it will probably cost less an at least you know who is coming out and you can ask them questions about your installation before you hire them to make sure you're happy with their answers. Unfortunately, Home Depot just makes sure their installers can pass a background check and have the tools to complete the job! They don't actually check if they know HOW to complete the job, if you can believe that! If they mess up they just fire them and send someone to fix the job. Lol. As you can imagine they have a lot of turnover and repairs. I was constantly being asked to fix jobs for them. It was embarrassing going out to some of these repairs and having people ask me if the first crew worked for me and telling me how bad they did. As far as warranty it's standard depending on where you live. For example, in Florida, where I live anyone who does work in your house has to guarantee work for one year. Regardless. Its the law. As far as basements, we don't have a lot of those in Florida, but from what I understand most of these vinyl plank floors are rated for below grade so you should be fine, just follow all manufacturer's recommended instructions. I'm always reading everything in the installation instructions so I make sure I keep the warranty intact. Manufacturers constantly change requirements so it's important to read everything if you want to keep your warranty intact. Sorry for the long answer. Tim
Tim thanks for the detailed reply. I am shocked to know home depot doesn't check for qualified installers. Good to know. I think will give life proof flooring a try. In regard to hiring private installer. What can you say is a fair price for installing vinyl flooring? Is it based on sqft or whatever way pricing is assessed for floor installation. thank you,@@JonesKnows
Yeah, Home Depot does background checks, but not experience checks. A fair installation price would be $1.50 to $2.00 a square foot. Always ask the installers if they have photos of their work and ask them what brands of vinyl they have installed, just to see if they can name a few. You want to make sure they are familiar with flooring products. You really don't want to hire a handyman you want to hire a flooring installer. Handymen don't specialize in flooring and aren't familiar with proper installation methods. I just put a video out today showing a bad installation by an unexperienced "installer" and what not to do!
I noticed you referred to this flooring multiple times as a medium quality flooring compared to a low or high quality flooring. In your opinion what brand would you considered a higher quality in the same style and attributes of this flooring and what would make it a higher quality? Just trying to see whats out there and what to avoid from someone who knows flooring.
Lifeproof, Nucore, and Duralux are all store brands. There's nothing wrong with them its just some people prefer name brands. Armstrong, Shaw, Mohawk, and Amtico are all major brands. These name brands may offer more colors, thicker wear layers, ect. It's important to read the product specs because each of these brands may offer different lines within a brand. For example, Armstrong may have a low end line that is lower quality then a store brand. I tell my customers all the time a name means nothing if its lower quality. Sometimes you're better off with a store brand if it rates higher then a name brands low end line. Armstrong is probably going to be one of the best brands. I love Amtico it's probably my favorite but, unfortunately they don't have a locking / floating floor that they sell in USA. I'm not sure why, because it seems like they have a floating line in Europe. I've always done glue down Amtico they're a great company. They will even customize your floor with your families crest or any design or name you want in individual boards that you can use in your floor. Sorry, for such a long answer. I hope I answered your question. Please ask me anything. Thanks, Tim
I would go with the floor that has a color you like the best. There is not enough difference in quality. Its more important to be happier with the color and style. Nobody that see's this floor once its installed is going to know its more expensive or a particular brand. They don't write the name on the top of the floor. Lol. I'm the type of person that usually prefers name brands and likes the idea of the best with most things in life. I've put ridiculously expensive floors in my homes over the years and nobody can really tell the difference between a name brand floor and a off brand of the same color once its installed. I basically wasted a lot of money that I didn't get back when I sold the house. I found that I was better off spending that extra money I save on a cheaper floor on other things around the house that actually added more value and people noticed. Now that doesn't mean buy the cheapest floor you can find. I would stick with floors from reputable places like Home Depot, Lowes, and Floor & Décor. These places always give you a good product at a fair price. I would also make sure its installed properly. You can buy the best product but if its not installed right it can look terrible. Hope this was helpful.
@@JonesKnows Thanks for the response. I'm not worried about "brand names" or what people think of my fancy vinyl floor. It's really all about durability and how it holds up long term to me. The Shaw floor is more expensive, but it has a 20mm wear layer versus maybe 6mm, I think, on the Lifeproof. But you said there's no real difference in the quality, so I'll probably go with Lifeproof because it's quite a bit less expensive.
I have almost the identical question to this. Have Karndean LVP in my office with high traffic and it looks brand new. Much thinner but 20mil wear layer. I am thrown off by 6mil. Is it not worth to pay another $1-$1.5 per foot for the extra wear layer or is it overkill?
@@M_Ladd I think you're confusing me not saying "I'm not worried about the price" with me also saying "I'm not worried about 'brand names' or what people of my fancy new floor." As I said above, it's all about durability and how it holds up over time.
Beware, it absolutely scratches. Unfortunately, we found this after it was installed. We don't even know how it's happening. New scratches just keep showing up. We're thinking perhaps small rocks wedged in the grooves of our shoes, or furniture. Not sure, but thankfully it has a look of grey wood planks so it looks like it could be part of the faux wear. Otherwise we love it.
Thank you for your video. We have a winter home in Phoenix Arizona that is not occupied during the summer. We turn air conditioner off from May to Nov while we were at our summer home. How well would life proof vinyl flooring hold up to the desert heat in an unoccupied home with out air-conditioning
So if was my house I would have no problem with going head with the installation because I'm a risk taker when its for myself.. However speaking to you as a flooring professional it is a bit risky. If it were laminate I would say no way. But, vinyl is tough and not as likely to expand or cupp. I have even installed this flooring on covered enclosed patios without full time air conditioning here in South Florida without any problem. So if you do install the floor leave extra expansion and make sure to acclimate the flooring.
Thanks a lot. I am renovating the bedroom for quarantine. Will install a vinyl floor. In SW Florida. Thinking of Lifeproof vinyl. Will watch your install video.
I am preparing the floor. It is terazzo in SW Florida. Checking the flatness and I am using a line and a straight edge 8 foot. Over 8 foot I get up to 3/16 but have gotten a 1/4 in a few places. I doubt I could get it flatter? should I do it anyway?
I have installed this in two rooms great flooring easy to install keep groves clean .check the ribs make sure they are cracked or chiped , follow instructions take your time and when you are done admire your new floor. I left two strips on my deck for two months still good .
Thanks for this video! My wife and I are in the market for new flooring and considering this product and were worried about the durability with only 6 mil, thank you for talking about your personal experience with it!
Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Which brand do you consider to be high end and easier to install?
Karndean makes some really nice vinyl floors that are a little more expensive and higher end. I just did a video on one of their "loose lay" floors that is the easiest floor I ever installed. I also like Lifeproof for looks and Nucore for ease of installation.
@@JonesKnows thanks! I'll look for the video.
Coretec 12mm
I love sheet vinyl flooring 🤗. I think there are a lot of crappy options, but the nicer stuff i like. It gets a bad wrap
I've thought about using sheet vinyl but haven't found something that doesn't look cheap / fake, etc. Any recommendations?
If you had to choose between lifeproof lvp or nucore 6.5 mm/22mil with the cork backing in a basement, what would you choose?
I have installed a ton of this flooring. Have had zero issues. Also have installed a ton of Pergo. Found both to be pretty easy to install. Must say that this stuff is tough. Drooped hammers, screwdrivers. etc on it. No damage.
Its amazing how strong they're able to make these floors. We are always dropping tape measure, no damage. Luckily.
My husband and I installed lifeproof throughout out entire home.
We did it ourselves.
We love it.
Very durable.
Its a great floor. Was it hard to install ?
How does it hold up to spills and pet messes?
Love your pride and love for what you do. Thank you
What do you think is the best vinyl to install and last the longest?
Hello! We are planning to have this product professionally installed throughout our entire home. We have a mix of carpet and ceramic tile currently. We are told we can have life proof installed over the tile. What are your honest thoughts about installing over ceramic in an old house with a floor that likely needs leveled? Thanks!
I am curious, I put down a very cheap and thin EVP in my cabin in Michigan (floor is over the crawl space, in the winter there is no heat and in the summer when we are not there there is no AC), but it buckled and contracted a ton. I assumed it was because it was only 4mm and was thinking that the stiffer board (7mm or more) and better quality locking system would fix that. Am I wrong and should I not put this down in a cabin without climate control?
This product does the same thing
@@cream6936 you mean same thing g as the 4mm that I put in? Thus, not a good choice.
@@bobbartholomew2263 if u have a ph problem or moisture problem these floors glue start coming out the joints and start buckling real bad
You should t have a problem with not having climate control with a thicker LVP (thicker the better) just be SURE to leave a lot of room for expansion at the perimeter of the room.
We just installed this in kitchen. You are spot on in your describing the product. It is very nice and I believe it will hold up well under normal use (we won't take a grinder to it like i saw in one video). The installation was a bit harder than Laminate that we had installed in other areas. but not a lot harder. We did notice that the long track is easily damaged, so be very careful with it when you are joining it and like you said, don't lock down the end until you have it just right. Overall we did a great job..we did have a little difficulty in doorways...getting it under the jams. A few spots will need a little caulk to hide what molding won't. But, the savings by installing ourselves was necessary and worth it. We are happy with Lifeproof flooring.
Planning on installing 400 sq ft of LifeProof MSI Devon Oak 6x36 rigid core LVP in my mobile home. I use it as a summer camp, so it is pretty much only climate controlled on the weekends in the summer months. No climate control in the winter. I know you can’t guarantee anything, but if this was your trailer, would you install this product for this application ? Hard to find any product that is recommended for these conditions without paying a ton for it. I do want it to look good, but it is still just a camp, lol.
By the way, I live in Pittsburgh, PA. , so it can get a bit cold in the winter.
Yes I would totally put it in my trailer. It should be fine! Of course no guarantees lol, but I don’t see it as a problem
I was hoping you would feel that way. I was thinking that with the limited space of a trailer, and the rigid core construction in the flooring, the expansion/contraction would not be quite as much of a factor. Like you said, no guarantee, but it makes me feel a little better about the decision getting the opinion of a professional floor installer like yourself.
One more question, lol. Being that there is such a wide range of temperature variation, is it still ok to go with the recommended 1/4” wall gap, or should I go with 3/8 to be safe ? Thanks, your help is much appreciated !
Hi there! Just want to be clear. I am buying LifeProof LVP Dusk Cherry with 6 mil wear layer for3.19 per sq ft. and having it installed. I went through 8 boxes of different colors to finally choose this one which i love. I saw online they offer one that looks identical on-line called Shea Oak with 20 mil wear layer for 3.49 per sq ft. Its for my house . Im unable to get it fast enough to see if same and nobody at store can tell me if its same except for thicker wear layer. You don't think I need to worry about the thicker wear layer and just trust the 6 mil?
Thank you for your time and videos!
Stephen
Lifetime warranty if you follow the directions, understood. Taking that off the table, this question deals with installing over tile which is all pretty flat, good surface, normal deviations for grout lines. With that said the grout lines still scare a little for thoughts over time and use, heard flooring over time wants to form to what is underneath. Of course don't want to see dips, deviations, etc. Can an underlayment be used (easycut 2mm FloorComfort) to better flatten out those grout lines for the LifeProof floor? Again, understand about the warranty, asking more your thoughts on an underlayment (Pro's / Con's) since you have installed the floor and seen it over time. Thank you for any help/advice.
So the issue I have with underlayment, besides warranty, is that Lifeproof already has an attached underlayment so when you use a 2nd underlayment there is a good chance that the floor Is going to have to much "give" and will move to much when you walk on it, because of the extra padding. Now, you might say you like the idea of feeling soft on the knee or that this doesn't bother you. You might not even notice it to much if you use a firm product, But the problem you potentially create could be really bad. I can't tell you how many times over the years I've seen people try to do this with laminate because of unlevel subfloors, Mexican Clay, or even just really big grout joints they were worried about. Here's what happens when you step on a floor with to much cushion under it, the joints sometimes start to separate. Locking systems aren't strong enough to hold floors together that flex every time someone walks on them. I would be especially worried about the end joints because of the easy drop down locking systems floors have switched to, the ends of the boards aren't truly locked together. They are just sitting on top of each other. On a personal and embarrassing note, One of the first jobs I installed over 20 years ago was for my sister. I bought her the best laminate flooring at the time (Wilsonart) and the most expensive padding my Wilsonart distributor sold. This was when laminates were fairly new to the market and had to be glued together. Well, that padding they sold me was so thick it was like 1/2" and gave so much, it was crazy . Lol. You could almost use this padding as a mattress topper. Lol. I can laugh now but what a nightmare back then. My sister still talks about it. We installed the floor (remember glued together) with the giant padding. Let me tell you it was a light beech color laminate and the place looked and felt like a basketball court. It was so springy, only thing missing was the basketball basket. It wasn't even a week before my sister called, her whole floor was separating and coming apart. How embarrassing! My own sisters house! Sorry for the long story you got me thinking. Personally, what I would do and its cheaper and you will have a much better result, is fill the grout joints in with a flat trowel and some leveling patch. You can buy a bag and mix it up or they even sell some that are premixed. This way you have a solid surface. This is what I do all the time and what any good flooring professional would do. You may not even have to do that they say that these newer Luxury Vinyl's like Lifeproof won't telegraph grout joints through the floor anymore, but who knows they haven't been around THAT long to truly be tested it over time. Again, sorry for the long answer. Please if you have any more questions just let me know. Thanks, Tim
@@JonesKnows First, thank you for the quick reply, everything you stated makes complete sense. I am working with about 1500sq feet of space (large living room, three bedrooms, 1 bath and kitchen) that all feeds into each other. Right now their are about 5 different types of tile (horrible looking) so I wanted one water resistant wood looking floor instead that worked in the rooms but also bathroom/kitchen (I bought the LifeProof Alpine Wood prior to seeing your videos). I would have just removed the tile but again its 1500sq+ and in case this stuff (laminate) was ever removed later I didn't want just concrete to be there and instead the original tile so nothing would need to be done immediately if not so desired + who knows what's under their and fixes I would need to do. I have removed a small area of some broken tiles and filled that area in with Henry Premixed patch n'Level to even and level it out, worked nicely and was easy to do. I had some other broken tiles where the living room met an addition to the house, cement was actually broken up there so cleaned it up and as you stated already had planned to use some LevelQuick there to again level/even it all out. Again, the grout lines are not bad, nothing crazy and def. not deeper than 1/8 (even less really, probably 1/16) (I read: Remember, laminate flooring with attached underlayment padding can accept a deviance of 1/8th of an inch over 40 inches.) I just thought maybe the thin 2mm underlayment would give a little more cushion and relieve any possible deviations. But again I completely get what you are saying, you have done this longer than my personal DIY projects so I will take your advice and save some money (cost of underlayment). Do you think I need to fill the grout lines (1500sq+ remember)... I read the same thing in my prepping for this project but again looking over all the styles of tile I have (5 types) they really aren't that protruding or dipping, the largest dips are in the 12x12 tiles (majority are 6x6) and even in the 12x12 they aren't that deep + where all the tiles come together they did a good job of it all being level. As you said about yourself in another video, I too am a perfectionist so any small non-level area I see I freak out. Thanks again for your help.
I know in your video you mentioned this is not recommended if you're in a condo. What would you suggest for a condo requiring "cork not less than one quarter inch and half in plywood and/or other effective soundproofing material"? Currently we have carpeting installed over the concrete.
The best option for a condo is to find one without a backing that allows you to put a sound rated underlayment. OR put down plywood then the Lifeproof or Nucore etc with attached underlayment
If you’re applying to concrete on a bottom level you may be fine. I had my upstairs neighbors install hard surface floors above me years ago & they didn’t have any sound barrier & it was horrible. They had to rip them out per HOA regulation. That said, since I lived on the bottom floor, I could install anything.
Carpet
Would you trust the Home Depot installers to install LifeProof in living room, kitchen, hallway and entryway? Or should I look for independent flooring installers?
Your kitty is adorable. Would you recommend it for kitchen where heavy appliances are used?
I am about to install the multi size product in my home. I watched your video on how to center the flooring to your hall. my problem is my hall is exactly 3 small, 3 medium and 3 large for the width. no way to get this centered to the hall and not have a small price on one end
You just saved me a bunch of time as I live in a condo. Thank you.
Glad to hear it!
Glad to hear it!
Glad to hear it!
Hi,I am looking to replace carpet with vinyl flooring in my second floor, looking for 20 mil water proof,but I want to reduce noise what should I use or put underneath
That's for the honest appraisal. I'll check out your installation vids. My wife likes this at Home Depot. I'm hoping it holds up as we have lots of children and animals.
Most of the products that Home Depot sells are pretty decent. If you sent a link it didn't come through. For kids and pets I always recommend products that are medium in color and textured. Medium colors and textures hide scratching and wear. Really dark and really light colors show everything. Products that are textured hide scratches. You don't want something that's smooth because it will show every scratch. You also want to make sure you put felt protection on all the furniture legs this will also prevent scratches.
Thanks…I am considering this brand…one question…on a different video the guy said whether or not you have a pad on the plank, you still need another pad under…is this true…seems odd…I will have it professionally installed. Thanks for the video.
Thinking about this wall to wall in my kitchen, pantry, breakfast and laundry rooms, including under the new cabinets.
Most of my living space in my 80-plus-year-old house is red oak hardwood, and plan to replace the vinyl sheet flooring with a light grey or silver-tan hue as a contrast, maybe a herringbone pattern.
I will probably use a Home Depot installer to avoid any warranty issues.
DO NOT INSTALL under cabinets, it’s right in the installation instructions, sure way to void the warranty!
How does this happen in a room with a lot of direct sun light? Will it cause fading or lifting?
Hi! I'm about to renovate all my floors. I'm torn between Lifeproof and Triumph Flooring. Which one is better quality?
It really depends on which line you are looking at I believe triumph has like 9 different lines and all have different specs! Make sure you are comparing apples to apples
@@JonesKnows I'm confused now. 😬
@@JonesKnows you should have explained a little more, such as gave a little more detail to the actual question. What would be apples to apples, give insight. Guide her.
@@savelinafilemoni8656 I'm sure he'd expound if she responded with her specific needs. She asked him to compare apples to apples bc she didn't specify what exact line of the brands she wanted compared.
I put down the Allure flooring 8 years ago and it is awesome (I agree it was hard to put down). Is the Lifeproof quality just as good as when it was made by Allure?
Allure was one of the first floating and locking Luxury vinyl's that I installed years ago before it was really popular. I use to be a contractor for Home Depot and I remember one of my installers that worked for me always complained about having to install Allure. Personally I didn't mind installing Allure. I remember telling him to get use to it because this is the next thing. Now LVP is more popular then laminate. I think Lifeproof is way better then Allure when it come to quality and much easier to install.
I loved the way you explained things! Thank you so much! You look very experienced and knowledgeable of what you're talking about. Max is adorable and having him by your side in the video made it much more fun to watch and added a lot of credibility to the LVP you're reviewing. hahahaahha.
Thank you for your response!!! Where is the best place to purchase solid treads for stairs? Once I remove carpet from stairs; are you stating that I can stain what's underneath and,or purchase solid treads for my stairs. My stairs width are about 33" width.
Awesome and informative video! I’m going to install 800sf this weekend.
Great video and Channel My question is about installing it on a 2 car garage Will the floor get damaged with daily driving in and out of the garage? What about the ocasional oil dripp? Turning the tires a little to adjust entering or exiting the garage? Would that be an issue? Thanks!
It's not made for that dude but they do make a liquid vinyl paint like material that looks great on a garage floor!
Thanks for all the grate detail. So what vinyl/pad combo or product would provide the quietest flooring to use in a condo/hi-rise?
For the quietest I would go with NuCore because they have cork on the back, plus they have an approved pad they sell at floor n decor that they allow. Most brands don’t allow the use of any additional pad besides the one attached.
Thanks for the video--love your cat! We are looking at putting in new flooring in our entire lower level--about 1400 sq ft. Most of the issues I've read about deal with messed up HD orders and bad contractors/ installers. How do I find a really good, reputable flooring installer? What should I look for and what questions should I ask? Also, what's a reasonable install rate per sq ft for tear up, prep and install? Thanks!
Good luck
Generally installers from flooring stores alone are reputable and not shoe makers! Buy from them and use there installers and you should have no problems if things go wrong! If it is a diy job you will be dead before you get a resolution from a warranty claim! Just sayin!
Thanks for the informative video! (And your kitty is too cute!!)
Tim, I'm putting lifeproof over particleboard. As it transitions into the kitchen it is 50 year old vinyl. Don't want to pull that up for concerns about asbestos. Will that tiny step between particleboard and linoleum "telegraph" through the vinyl plank?
Great video. Would you recommend vinyl plank for a bathroom and if so which manufacturer? Thanks
I saw where this is being used in a zero threshold shower application. I know it's waterproof, but I wonder how that works???
Hello, I am trying to confirm if you HAVE to have a transition in every doorway, even with the same lifeproof flooring is used in both the hallway, bedroom, bathroom 1000 feet of same floor over 5 rooms and 2 baths in order to not void the warranty.
I have stick and peel vinyl in my downstairs bathroom. Can I put this above that or should I tear it off before installing? Also if water gets Beneath this will it ruin it?
Yes you can put it over the existing peel & stick . It is completely waterproof so, no, water won’t ruin it if it gets under it, but if you are worried you can silicone the perimeter of the room.
Great video I am going to install this product in my kitchen but there is a slight dip or belly of 3/8 inch over 6 foot area is that a concern? And your advice..thanks
@@stevehering8069 if its is consistant from end to end you should be ok but if not it could bow on you and come apart at the seems I would recommend adding weight on top as you go and making sure to allow for expansion! I had the same problem and so far so good but my refrigerator holds down one of the ends and a stove the other so that helps!
Hello. I enjoyed the video and find it beneficial. Mr. Jones, is there a video you have on how I can install this product? - Thanks so much!
Can you install over hardwood. I have really really not refinishable.
We are wanting to go with lifeproof and fell in love with the nutmeg hickory- however... it is beveled and with 3 little kids and dogs I fell like this may make it hard to clean. Our second choice was sterling oak however the wear layer is only 6mil- supposedly there is the same exact color though with a 22mil wear layer called Grey Birch- its a special order and only $300 more total. What are your thought on paying the little extra for the extra mil layer and what are you thoughts on the beveled edges? I have friends that keep telling me to look at mohawk waterproof vinyl but Ive already done all the research on lifeproof- I'd hate to start all over.
I wanted to do the Mohawk because of that thick wear layer but lowes didn't have them and didn't know when they'd get more. Went with the lifeproof🤷♂️
What think of installing this flooring in commercial space like a bar?
Planning on installing these in our home but my question is..is it really toxic because some say that..we’re from the uk thank you all the best..
My adult disabled son uses a power wheelchair. How would this flooring hold up? He usually sits in the same spot in his bedroom to watch tv. Would the weight of the chair along with his 140 pounds cause indentations?
Hey Cathy, I'm in the process of installing this (lifeproof from home depot) floor for the first time, but have installed hundreds of floors similar. What I've found matters most is floor preparation. If your subfloor is sound, I don't see there being an issue with your son's wheelchair. This floor is tough! Like he said in the video it has some sort of solid core. This is obvious when working with it as I use a score and snap method to cut, and you can really feel it! It feels like cutting/snapping plexiglass. Good luck with whatever you chose!
@@johnd8751 Thank you for your response. We are on a slab so sounds like we should be okay. Right now we have carpet in his room and laminate in other areas which will all need to be taken up and replaced with life proof flooring. Thanks again.
No problem Cathy, glad to help! Yeah just make sure you/they scrape up/remove any lumps from any glue, or any other leftovers from the old carpet/linoleum. You might want to fill any low spots and or fastener holes etc first. Keep in mind the lifeproof will be much stiffer than than the carpet and linoleum and will have a harder time conforming to lows spots. Home depot carries a product called 'henry 549 feather finish' that would work well for small patches, or consider floor leveler for bigger areas/pockets.
@@johnd8751 thank you so much!
Is $3,400 for just Labor to install 900sq feet. Is it a fair price?
Is there carpet rip up & furniture moving? Is it one open room like a living room/kitchen or bedrooms? Baseboard or Quarter round? If it’s empty and ready with no rip up then yea it’s a little high!
That is $3.78 a square foot!!! Pretty pricey
The labor is as much as the floor
@@JonesKnows
Right... now that would cost more... More Work.
Just ripped out carpeting in my basement because we had a little water after a bad storm which soaked most of the pad underneath. I was looking at Lifeproof vinyl plank flooring as a replacment and learned from your video that an underlayment will void the warranty. Do you have any suggestions for a vinyl flooring I can use in a basement with some sort of an underlayment such as DMX Airflow or a moisture barrier? Although we are doing what we can to prevent water in the future I'm still worried it may happen again. Thanks in advance
You can put a moisture barrier under NuCore. Lifeproof yes it will void the warranty.
You can put a moisture barrier under NuCore. Lifeproof yes it will void the warranty.
How does lifeproof LVT compare to other natural flooring like cork or linoleum? We are worried about vocs and off-gassing.
Off gassing was something that happened with the old vinyl not the LVT. Cork or Bamboo is probably the most “green” though
Great video! I am getting my Lifeproof vinyl flooring tomorrow and this video is very helpful! Do you get a lot of past customers ever complaining about LVF after a few years?
Thanks so much! No I haven’t had any complaints on any LVP Flooring I’ve installed. I’ve had people call me back out after a few years and pay me to fix issues with Laminate ( usually after they’ve had a water damage) but never on Vinyl. The stuffs practically indestructible so that helps! Lol Good Luck with your install and let me know if you have any questions!
Thank you so much! I am in love with my flooring. What product do you recommend I clean the floors with? After the installation, the floors are very dusty.
@@latoyakinnard4371 try a wet swifter
Thank you!
Waterproof? Lifeproof....I have a puppy that I intend leaving gated in the kitchen while I am at work until she is trained. If she misses the doggy pad, and I am unable to attend to it for hours, well the urine damage this floor?
Its waterproof on small spills.
As far as water goes it can't damage Lifeproof I've left it underwater for over a month with no damage at all. Urine I would not want to leave for prolonged periods of time but if its cleaned up within 24 hours you won't have a problem. Let me know if you have any more questions.
Can this flooring be installed on stairs?
Could you glue it on stairs? Or what is the best options on stairs? I currently have carpet and two big dogs and I don’t know what material I should use on my stairs, I would love wood but with a lot of traffic in my house I don’t think is the best option.
Sorry TH-cam was not showing me replies to my replies. I don't really like it on stairs. I always do solid oak treads and stain them to match flooring. If you do put it on stairs it must be glued. But you also have to buy a stair nose for the front of step. I'm just not a fan of 2 piece steps stairnose with flooring. Solid oak treads last forever
I will watch more of this guys videos just to see more of the kitty cat. LOL
Was looking at the LifeProof Scratch Stone floor and found some reviews that were a little concerning. My biggest fear is scratching due to two very large dogs. I read to look for a good AC rating and found AquaGuard 12mm at Floor and Decor with an AC5 rating. I do like the scratch stone look but fear scratches. Would you prefer one floor over the other? Price is comparable.
Well I have AquaGuard in my own house So....I have been very happy with it and I have cats that like to run marathons around the house and a 120lb Lab not a single scratch in the 2 years it’s been down. We love it!
Order coretec
The scratch stone is what we just put in our kitchen. Believe me, if you were to get a scratch on this, you would not even know it! This pattern is designed to hide anything! The name says it all...scratch stone! lol...also, the pattern looks like it has white paint splatters, as well...I like the look a lot in my kitchen. It may be a bit much for some people, though. Too me...it's beautiful!
@@wayneguy6043 Are you a bank or just a sales rep?
@@JonesKnows j
Do i need a humidity gauge to have bamboo flooring in my house in texas? will the lifeproof bamboo planks shrink or expand?
A humidity gauge is not required or necessary. If you had one than it wouldn’t hurt to use it but you don’t need to spend a ton of money buying one. Since this is an Engineered floor they have the ability to shrink & expand, but that doesn’t mean that they will drastically enough to cause problems. It is important to follow the manufacturers installation guidelines amongst other things recommends leaving a 1/2” expansion around the perimeter of the rooms and also silicon the perimeter of the room when you finish the install. One of the most important things is to keep your A/C on cool from the time the wood is delivered and keep it at a consistent temp year round.
Vinyl flooring expands and contracts quite a bit in response to temperature but not humidity.
♥️ thank you Jones for your informative videos , I'm a new subscriber. Please can you recommend a brand that you feel is as good as LifeProof regarding scratching and dents however is very quiet when you walk on it? Thank you , I don't mind paying a premium for quieting sound sound deadening.
Coretec
Can you recommend a brand of durable luxury vinyl plank flooring to use in a work area in a basement?
Right in the nick of time "Jones":). I did my bathroom with LifeProof. Turned out great.
I've decided to do the rest of my condo.
This is a small ground floor condo, no basement, on fairly level, smooth, intact concrete.
My only concern is with regard to the floors feeling super cold on the feet in the colder months of winter?
If it were you doing your home and wanted the durability, level of water resistance, and no need for glue, with a few rugs do you think LifeProof will fit the bill? It's a pretty good product.
Or is there a similar product that you know of that's thicker than 6.5 mil that would be more appropriate?
I installed the stuff in the bathroom over very level intact ceramic with less than 1/4 inch grout lines so that existing floor created another barrier and that floor didn't feel cold at all last winter.
Maybe it would be warmer doing the rest of my place with the LifeProof than I think? Your thoughts?
Thanks for the time you donated with your informative video and sharing your experience and expertise:)
Before picking a product I always ask what kind of traffic you get in your home. Pets ? Lots of grandkids or kids ? Lots of entertaining friends ? ect ? If you don't get a lot of traffic then your candidate for almost any floor. If you are going to have kids, pets, ect. Then you should probably consider looking into the wear layer. Nucore does have a thicker wear layer but I honestly think that Lifeproof looks more authentic. If your really worried about cold then you can put radiant heating under the floor. But I do think that vinyl is not nearly as cold as tile. I will say that Nucore has a lot more choices as far as colors and styles. I'm not sure if you have seen any of my other videos but I do have one call Nucore vs Lifeproof Round 2 that breaks down which one I think looks the best. Its a series I'm doing on the difference between the two products. I also have a video coming out in a couple days that shows almost all the Nucore colors. I hope I answered all your questions. Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner but we're getting ready for a hurricane down here in Florida.
@@JonesKnows No stores around here seem to carry the Nucore. (Michigan) I'll keep looking. Yes I've watched several of your other videos. I have a feeling it may be more than a couple days for your next video, but I'm subscribed and will be aware when you eventually get it done. If I see it soon, well...that'll be a good sign:)
Sorry you guys are having to prepare for this dangerous storm. And it's getting stronger.
I was raised in Tampa in the 60's/70's so I'm very aware of the aftermath for sure.
I have relatives in Tampa, Jacksonville, and Niceville. And several friends in Miami.
Just gotta hang in there and ride it out and hope for the best,.
The Atlantic is so very unforgiving and unpredictable for sure.
Such a bummer:(
Thanks for your replies at such a uncertain time. I appreciate you:)
Hope you guys aren't super close to the water?
Stay safe and thanks again:).
I live in south Florida now but I lived in Tampa for a few years in the early 2000s. Usually people move from Michigan to Tampa, I would love to move somewhere north. A state that has seasons and snow. lol. I've been to Lavonia, Michigan once. It was during winter and I remember there was salt all over the roads. I had never seen snow before I went and as soon as I get there my friend who picked me up at the airport asked me to drive, in the snow. Lol. Having never seen snow, it was an experience to say the least. I figured out in a hurry how to drive in the snow. This has to be the slowest moving hurricane of all time. Now all the stores are closed and we just have to wait for the storm to pass eventually. My next video in the series should be out before the weekend. www.flooranddecor.com/stores I tried to paste the link for the store locator but I don't know if the link will come through. Thanks for watching, Tim
Lori, now that your floor has been in a while how has it held up on the TILE floor portion you installed it over? Any issues you have seen so far?
@@tvhsgbb842 Floor is holding up great. I just looked in my photos on my Mac, (I took pics as I was working on my bathroom floor)..time flew by, I did that floor Feb 2018! So it's been "lived on" for 20+ months now. Zero issues! It looks as good today as it did when I installed it. Great product!
I've been in a quandary as to what I'll do the rest of my condo.
The LifeProof Shadow Hickory I put on my bathroom floor looks great, but might be a tad too dark for my entire condo:).
When I did the bathroom it was my "pilot room" to test the product. Although it looks beautiful, I want something a bit lighter for the rest of my place:)
I put the Allure in my kitchen a few years ago and have been satisfied with it. I was looking into the Lifeproof to put in 3 bedrooms but now I'm looking into the Nucore you mentioned. The Allure wasn't hard to install but you'd better make sure that it was perfectly where you wanted it and that it was locked before moving on to the next. Going to research the Nucore for installation info now. Thanks for the review
Jones, we would love your input on something. It’s just my wife & I and our six cats in our house. We have found a Smartcore Ultra pattern that we love. The Smartcore has a 12 mil wear layer. Should we shy away from it though because it’s not a 20 mil ?? The more research we do, we just keep seeing people that say that you SHOULD NOT buy anything that’s less than 20 mil & that WPC is way way worse than SPC.
PLEASE HELP!!! Arrrrrrgggghhhh!!! 😣😣🤦♂️🤦♂️ All this is driving us crazy!! 😢
I just installed 1,450 sq ft of life proof vinyl plank in my house. Easy to install when installing forwards, but backwards was a pain.
No idea how it’ll hold up but so far so good.
How's the floor now. Also under kitchen cabinets?
I would like to use this in my food truck, do you think that lack of climate control will affect it badly? I live in the south
Technically it should have a controlled climate, but I think that since it won't be in a large area it should be ok. Normally ac keeps the floor from expanding and shrinking a lot which would be a really big problem in a house or big room. If it were me I would take the chance and put it in. If you want to put something that is a sure thing you can put in a glue down vinyl product with a 2 part epoxy and you will never have any problems.
Reagan Jeffries Click vinyl has little expansion and contraction. It is a very good choice.
I am looking to install this in my bathroom with two splash crazy kids and I live in the redwoods so rocks and pine needles are always tracked in. I have read online this floor scratches easily. Is this the best floor to put down?
I think you'll be fine. The water wont hurt it at all. and I doubt you & a couple kids will scratch it unless they are in the habit of dragging unprotected furniture all over it. I think the things you've seen online where people say it scratches they are talking about furniture being moved on it with no felt on the legs to protect the floor. You would have to REALLY try and gouge it to get it to scratch, but if you were really worried about it There are ceramic tiles that are pretty much scratch proof, but they are also harder to keep clean and a lot harder to install! The good thing about vinyl is it can be laid down pretty quick & easily and taken up quickly if you don't like how its holding up and you're not out a ton of money for a bathroom!
Great video! I’m thinking about getting the Lifeproof Blue Ridge Oak LVP flooring installed. What are your thoughts on this style? Thank you!
Did you end up installing this floor? If so how has it held up?
is it safe to use in a basement. If it floods will i have to pull it up?
That will depend on a lot of things. Like the type of water, how long it was under the water so on and so forth! Try it and see, nothing is fool proof! Use a pad if on concrete! Oh and this stuff is made to float so if nothing is holding it down it could float away in a flood!
I've been looking at Lifeproof - seems like it will be a good floor. I'm wondering though - what is your favourite vinyl plank floor?
Luxurious pine
What is the best vinyl flooring overall ?
I’ve had two other brands put in a couple rooms. One was NuCore. Both had major issues with the interlocking part. For me, that part would crack/break easily. It was very frustrating. I had to be very gentle when putting them together. Does Lifeproof have this issue?
Or was I simply putting it together wrong?
Which brand is better Lifeproof or Smart Core? I'm looking to do my basement flooring. Also what under liner do you recommend?
SMARTCORE
Love your videos! Thanks for sharing your knowledge! If you were out here (WA State) we would hire you to install! Question: How would you move a 5’ tall (HEAVY) safe around to install Lifeproof floors so you don’t damage them? You answered awhile back that Lifeproof can handle a large safe (verified by someone who did it- but only gave vague replies about moving the safe & I don’t want to be g him! Lol). Could you maybe video how you move safes like that next time you come across one? And label the video with safe in it because I know (by going to blogs) that there are people wanting this info! Thanks! 👍
You want to put the safe on Masonite, they sell it at Home Depot and you cut it to size. It will protect the floor. Lay the floor as close as you can to the safe put the Masonite on the floor put safe on the Masonite (cat walk it use 2 people) lay the rest of the floor where the safe was then slide the safe back into place and either take the Masonite out or you can leave it under to extra protect the floor for the future. I’ll definitely do a video on it next time I come across a safe or super heavy furniture! Thanks for the recommendation and for watching!!
I am considering installing this over 12x12 ceramic tile in my kitchen and living room. Roughly 800 square feet. Will this be a problem as far as grout lines showing up over time. Tile is 98 percent flat. I mean a few imperfections here and there but is in really good shape.
How would you recommend finding a good flooring contractor? Usually when I am specifically searching nearby all I’m seeing is handymen that like you note probably wouldn’t install as well
Would you trust whoever Home Depot would recommend? (I haven’t checked or asked HD just curious)
The box stores have a lot of shoemakers along with some very good installers! You just never know who you get! Personally I would go to a store that just caters to floors! They will give you a warranty and stand by it because they are the ones who installed it!
Just started looking into vinyl flooring and thank you for this video you gave me great insight. I looked through most of the reviews and still have a couple of questions. 1) I know you said it was ok to place on tile floor but what thickness (4mm,5mm,8mm, and etc) would you recommend that looks and feels like real wood but won't have a issues with door areas and transitioning to tile areas? 2) what is the difference between LVT and LVP? Thanks
LVT=Luxury Vinyl Tile LVP=Luxury Vinyl Plank LVT looks like Stone or ceramic tile & LVP looks like wood flooring. Anything over 5mm would be fine over tile.
Is Nucor performance series easy to install DIY?
Its easy to install, but it requires that you cut the boards with saws instead of just a razor knife. So as long as you have some saws and don't mind the using them then its a great product to work with.
Does life proof have volatile gas off? Is it EVo-friendly? Thanks.
Hey there Jones, my local store has a brand called CoreLogic and Twelve Oaks. Still a 20 mil wear layer. But I can't find much of anything online about them. Any good?
Because they’re trash. I literally just had a local shop tell me that Twelve Oaks was better than Provenza & Flooret and I just walked away shaking my head.
Max is the star of the show!
What would you recommend to put in a enclosed trailer. Floating or glue down
Never glue, needs to float in order to expand or contract. Glue and it could bow on you or lift at seams!
Best video out there. Thank you
whats the product u talking about start with n???
Do you have video for alpine backwoods vinyl for stairs?
No I usually do solid treads stained to match the vinyl because they're more durable. I really don't like vinyl on stairs. Actually I really don't like anything on stairs that uses a stair nose. I think stair nose are nothing but problems and they really don't look that good. I like one piece steps. Some companies make one piece vinyl steps.
You read from a script very well indeed but I hope you install just as well if not better!
Tell the youngins it all begins with respect! Treat people the way you want to be treated and right or wrong it's the boss who takes the blame!
Do you need a moisture barrier underlayment if installing in a sub grade basement on concrete
Lifeproof does not need a moisture barrier. I couldn't believe that they don't want you to use one. So the first time I installed it I looked and researched it for hours and found no exceptions where they said it was okay to use a moisture barrier. So if you use one it will most likely void your warranty. I like to follow manufacture directions for installation exactly how they want you to, so if there is ever a warranty claim they can't get out of responsibly by blaming it on installation error.
@@JonesKnows I am so conflicted on this. I thought it did not need a moisture barrier per Home Depot telling me but I was at Floor and decor today and multiple people confirmed that their very similar backed floors needed one and said they would never recommend doing it without a barrier. Although that would be a bit easier to install without. Also I am torn 50/50 between a Lifeproof color and a color I saw today by NuCore. They are both very nice. Lifeproof with their backing and NuCore with a cork backing that they say needs a moisture barrier. With that not being an issue can you please advise me the pros and Cons of the two so I can decide? also My husband an i are very handy. We have done full shower tear out and redos and floating floors etc but we are doing about 1500 sq feet pretty of this. Pretty much out entire bottom floor and I want to try and so it with little to no transitions So I know it might not be possible to have at least 6 inches at every wall. Of course we can adjust the lengths always to account for the 8 inches on the end just not the last long row against all walls. What is your suggestion in this situation.
Im also torn between a NuCore product and a a similar product by Pergo. Look forward to your response.
If installing on basement concrete use the brand that calls for underlayment! Moisture is not good for anything no matter what they tell you! And trying to get them to honor a warranty, well, you will be dead before that happens!
You need to show several shots of finished floors that you have done.
I am selling a 40 year old rental house, and thinking about installing this flooring in the "family room", and the kitchen/dining room. What kind of damage ( if any) would you expect to see from dinning room chairs and computer chairs with rollers used on these floors ?
Its important to put felt protection on the legs of all chairs and the floor will be fine. Roller chairs I always recommend putting a clear mat that they make for office desk chairs. I've had the chairs without the mat and not had a problem, but it better to be safe then sorry.
Good video! Thanks! I can tell you're an expert. Considering life proof fresh oak. Love the color! I'm concerned about the thin wear layer but I think you made great points. Do have any experience with the fresh oak color? I may have home depot pros complete the entire job (whole house about 1200 sq feet). I couldn't get it to click together well in my test box that I purchased. Thanks again!
Thank You! Fresh Oak is a great color! That’s one thing about Lifeproof they have some GREAT colors! I always say when you’re deciding between some comparable floors in price and specs etc to go with the one that has the best color to you! so you MUST choose a floor that you will enjoy looking at every day!!
Thanks for the video. What underlayment do you recommend for subfloor?
how does the vinyl feel to your bare foot? is it cold like tile (even on a warm day), or does it feel warm like wood?
Vinyl doesn't get cold like tile it always feels warm. Its a very nice feeling floor on your feet.
I bought it when it was allure and put it directly over my concrete floor in my basement. I live in Canada and even in the winter, it feels warm. I also put it in my front entrance at work where wheelchairs are coming in and out with snow covered wheels and it has lasted for 8 years with no issues. Love this stuff. Just a little hard to put together.
@@heatherkevinm is your basement climate controlled?
@@johngalt1967 Yes, insulated and heated but is always cooler than the rest of the house. The floor still does not have that chill that concrete or tile has.
I am getting ready to DIY our entire house and I noticed that you almost mentioned Nucore in this video. I know you have videos regarding Nucore too, but which do you prefer and why?
I like them both but the Nucore might install slightly better but I like the way Lifeproof looks better! They are SO similar in quality so I say go with the one that you find the color you like best! You really can’t go wrong with either one!
Planning to put this down in my house, over underfloor heating and then in the bedrooms use rugs. Do you think this will create a heat problem with the flooring? I read in the warranty the floor is not supposed to be more than 85 degrees itself. Thanks.
Heating under the flooring is not a problem as long as its 1/2 below the flooring. It can not be raised over 85 degrees of course. You can always check with the manufacture of the heating system if your not sure.
The one thing about vinyl flooring is there is a lot of expansion with the temperatures. Putting it over a heated floor and there could be quite a bit of expansion and contraction. I would look into this further before I did it.
Beautiful cat. Very informative video. Thanks. I like shevron pattern.
Thank you! Ragdolls are my favorite breed they are so smart and beautiful
Do Lifeproof product sell shoe moudling? I want to do my 2nd floor which is about 575 sqft. No experience in flooring so watching as much video as I can before I start.
Thanks for this videos, just subscribed
I am thinking of getting the life proof vinyl flooring for basement family room.
Would be installing it over 12x12 tiled floor in the basement about 530sqft space.
1. I believe life proof can be installed straight over tile floor ?
2. life proof is $3.19 per sqft, which you mention is middle of the pack. You mentioned finding few broken pieces. What brand do you find a better quality or alternative in the same price point or better product for bit more that you would recommend.
3. If I get homedepot to install it, is the installation warranted and how long if you know?
4. Any under recommendations for basement install.
Thanks for Subscribing. Yes it can be installed directly over tile flooring. As far as other brands Shaw and Karndean are also nice and might cost just a little more. Nucore is slightly less depending on color since the prices vary. Be careful with Home Depot I use to install for them and it's hit or miss depending on who they send out since they subcontract all their installations. I would suggest hiring your own installer it will probably cost less an at least you know who is coming out and you can ask them questions about your installation before you hire them to make sure you're happy with their answers. Unfortunately, Home Depot just makes sure their installers can pass a background check and have the tools to complete the job! They don't actually check if they know HOW to complete the job, if you can believe that! If they mess up they just fire them and send someone to fix the job. Lol. As you can imagine they have a lot of turnover and repairs. I was constantly being asked to fix jobs for them. It was embarrassing going out to some of these repairs and having people ask me if the first crew worked for me and telling me how bad they did. As far as warranty it's standard depending on where you live. For example, in Florida, where I live anyone who does work in your house has to guarantee work for one year. Regardless. Its the law. As far as basements, we don't have a lot of those in Florida, but from what I understand most of these vinyl plank floors are rated for below grade so you should be fine, just follow all manufacturer's recommended instructions. I'm always reading everything in the installation instructions so I make sure I keep the warranty intact. Manufacturers constantly change requirements so it's important to read everything if you want to keep your warranty intact. Sorry for the long answer. Tim
Tim thanks for the detailed reply. I am shocked to know home depot doesn't check for qualified installers. Good to know. I think will give life proof flooring a try. In regard to hiring private installer. What can you say is a fair price for installing vinyl flooring? Is it
based on sqft or whatever way pricing is assessed for floor installation.
thank you,@@JonesKnows
Yeah, Home Depot does background checks, but not experience checks. A fair installation price would be $1.50 to $2.00 a square foot. Always ask the installers if they have photos of their work and ask them what brands of vinyl they have installed, just to see if they can name a few. You want to make sure they are familiar with flooring products. You really don't want to hire a handyman you want to hire a flooring installer. Handymen don't specialize in flooring and aren't familiar with proper installation methods. I just put a video out today showing a bad installation by an unexperienced "installer" and what not to do!
I noticed you referred to this flooring multiple times as a medium quality flooring compared to a low or high quality flooring. In your opinion what brand would you considered a higher quality in the same style and attributes of this flooring and what would make it a higher quality? Just trying to see whats out there and what to avoid from someone who knows flooring.
Lifeproof, Nucore, and Duralux are all store brands. There's nothing wrong with them its just some people prefer name brands. Armstrong, Shaw, Mohawk, and Amtico are all major brands. These name brands may offer more colors, thicker wear layers, ect. It's important to read the product specs because each of these brands may offer different lines within a brand. For example, Armstrong may have a low end line that is lower quality then a store brand. I tell my customers all the time a name means nothing if its lower quality. Sometimes you're better off with a store brand if it rates higher then a name brands low end line. Armstrong is probably going to be one of the best brands. I love Amtico it's probably my favorite but, unfortunately they don't have a locking / floating floor that they sell in USA. I'm not sure why, because it seems like they have a floating line in Europe. I've always done glue down Amtico they're a great company. They will even customize your floor with your families crest or any design or name you want in individual boards that you can use in your floor. Sorry, for such a long answer. I hope I answered your question. Please ask me anything. Thanks, Tim
Would you go with Lifeproof or Shaw Primavera, if price is not an issue?
I would go with the floor that has a color you like the best. There is not enough difference in quality. Its more important to be happier with the color and style. Nobody that see's this floor once its installed is going to know its more expensive or a particular brand. They don't write the name on the top of the floor. Lol. I'm the type of person that usually prefers name brands and likes the idea of the best with most things in life. I've put ridiculously expensive floors in my homes over the years and nobody can really tell the difference between a name brand floor and a off brand of the same color once its installed. I basically wasted a lot of money that I didn't get back when I sold the house. I found that I was better off spending that extra money I save on a cheaper floor on other things around the house that actually added more value and people noticed. Now that doesn't mean buy the cheapest floor you can find. I would stick with floors from reputable places like Home Depot, Lowes, and Floor & Décor. These places always give you a good product at a fair price. I would also make sure its installed properly. You can buy the best product but if its not installed right it can look terrible. Hope this was helpful.
@@JonesKnows Thanks for the response. I'm not worried about "brand names" or what people think of my fancy vinyl floor. It's really all about durability and how it holds up long term to me. The Shaw floor is more expensive, but it has a 20mm wear layer versus maybe 6mm, I think, on the Lifeproof. But you said there's no real difference in the quality, so I'll probably go with Lifeproof because it's quite a bit less expensive.
I have almost the identical question to this. Have Karndean LVP in my office with high traffic and it looks brand new. Much thinner but 20mil wear layer. I am thrown off by 6mil. Is it not worth to pay another $1-$1.5 per foot for the extra wear layer or is it overkill?
@@TreesOnTheBeach Thought you weren't worried about the price! You will get tired of the lifeproof before it wears out or else you will move first!
@@M_Ladd I think you're confusing me not saying "I'm not worried about the price" with me also saying "I'm not worried about 'brand names' or what people of my fancy new floor." As I said above, it's all about durability and how it holds up over time.
Beware, it absolutely scratches. Unfortunately, we found this after it was installed. We don't even know how it's happening. New scratches just keep showing up. We're thinking perhaps small rocks wedged in the grooves of our shoes, or furniture. Not sure, but thankfully it has a look of grey wood planks so it looks like it could be part of the faux wear. Otherwise we love it.
great video thank you very much
Love the Kitty Helper ;)
Thank you for your video. We have a winter home in Phoenix Arizona that is not occupied during the summer. We turn air conditioner off from May to Nov while we were at our summer home. How well would life proof vinyl flooring hold up to the desert heat in an unoccupied home with out air-conditioning
So if was my house I would have no problem with going head with the installation because I'm a risk taker when its for myself.. However speaking to you as a flooring professional it is a bit risky. If it were laminate I would say no way. But, vinyl is tough and not as likely to expand or cupp. I have even installed this flooring on covered enclosed patios without full time air conditioning here in South Florida without any problem. So if you do install the floor leave extra expansion and make sure to acclimate the flooring.
Will using a steam mop void this products warranty?
Thanks a lot. I am renovating the bedroom for quarantine. Will install a vinyl floor. In SW Florida. Thinking of Lifeproof vinyl. Will watch your install video.
You can’t go wrong with Lifeproof! Its a great quality floor and it has some beautiful colors! Good Luck & Stay Safe!
I am preparing the floor. It is terazzo in SW Florida. Checking the flatness and I am using a line and a straight edge 8 foot. Over 8 foot I get up to 3/16 but have gotten a 1/4 in a few places. I doubt I could get it flatter? should I do it anyway?