Smartcore Flooring

Everything You Need to Know Before Installing Smartcore Floors in Your Home

If you’re in the market for new floors, you may be considering Smartcore flooring as an option. Smartcore flooring is a brand of luxury vinyl plank flooring that offers the look and feel of real wood or stone floors, but with added durability and ease of installation.

Before you make your purchase, here is an in-depth buying guide covering everything you need to know about Smartcore flooring – from costs and features to proper installation and maintenance.

What is Smartcore Flooring?

Smartcore flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) made by USFloors. It consists of a stone-plastic composite core layered between a transparent wear layer and vinyl backing. The stone-plastic core provides rigidity and stability while retaining flexibility for easy installation.

Unlike laminate flooring which can damage easily, Smartcore flooring is waterproof and scratch-resistant. It can be installed in areas prone to moisture like basements, bathrooms and kitchens. The attached padding provides comfort underfoot and absorbs sound for quieter rooms.

Smartcore comes in planks that click together without any glue, making DIY installation straightforward. It’s available in a wide variety of wood and stone looks to match any decor.

Smartcore Flooring Features and Benefits

Here are some of the top features and advantages of Smartcore luxury vinyl flooring:

• Durable and scratch-resistant – The wear layer protects against scratches, dents and fading over time. It has a 15 mil to 20 mil layer for strength.
• 100% waterproof – The core is impervious to water, allowing installation anywhere including kitchens and bathrooms. No moisture damage.
• Attached underlayment – An attached foam underlay absorbs sound and provides comfort underfoot. No need for a separate underlayment.
• Stability – The rigid stone-plastic composite core prevents warping, shrinking and expansion. Stays in place.
• Easy to install – Planks click together without glue or nails. Floats over most existing floors.
• Realistic wood/stone looks – Features detailed textures and grains that mimic real hardwoods, stones and tiles. Hard to distinguish from authentic materials.
• Low maintenance – No waxing or refinishing needed. Just sweep and damp mop for cleaning.
• Pet-friendly – Resists scratches from pet nails. Won’t absorb urine odors if accidents occur.
• VOC-free and eco-friendly – Made from recycled materials. Qualifies for LEED building points.
• Affordable – Costs a fraction of real wood, stone or ceramic tile floors. Lower installation cost too.

With all these features, Smartcore luxury vinyl offers the beauty and durability of higher-end flooring at a budget-friendly price point.

Where to Buy Smartcore Flooring

Smartcore flooring is sold at leading home improvement stores across the United States and Canada. Here are some of the top retailers to check:

• Home Depot – The Home Depot stocks and sells a wide selection of Smartcore flooring styles and colors both in-store and online. Products can be ordered online and shipped directly or picked up in store.
• Lowe’s – Lowe’s is another major home improvement chain that carries Smartcore flooring. Browse and purchase online or at a local store.
• Costco – Costco warehouses have a rotating stock of Smartcore flooring at member-only discount prices. Selection varies seasonally.
• Lumber Liquidators – Lumber Liquidators specializes in hard surface flooring, including vinyl plank options from Smartcore. Order samples to view quality.
• Wayfair – The online outlet Wayfair sells Smartcore luxury vinyl with convenient shipping across the U.S. Free shipping on some orders.
• Floor & Decor – Check local Floor & Decor superstores for in-stock Smartcore floors at low prices. Get warehouse pricing on large projects.

For the best selection and pricing, check both online retailers and brick-and-mortar flooring stores that carry the Smartcore brand. Buy during sales events and season closeouts for additional savings.

Smartcore Flooring Costs

On average, expect to pay between $2.50 – $6 per square foot for Smartcore luxury vinyl flooring. This makes it an affordable alternative to solid hardwood ($6-12 per square foot installed) or natural stone ($15+ per square foot).

Here are some of the factors that influence the final installed cost of Smartcore floors:

• Product style – Wood look planks cost less than stone looks. Distressed and handscraped looks are more expensive.
• Plank width – Wider 6-7 inch planks cost more than standard 5 inch planks.
• Attached pad – Options with a 2 or 3mm foam pad cost $1 more per square foot.
• Accessories – Transition strips, reducers, stair nosings add $2-5 per linear foot.
• Professional installation – Hiring a contractor costs $3-7 per square foot for labor. DIY cuts costs significantly.
• Sale discounts – Look for promotions on free installation or percentage discounts on materials.

For a basic $2.50 per square foot Smartcore floor, expect to pay around $1,700 for materials to cover 1,000 square feet. With professional installation, the total cost is closer to $3,200.

There are ways to lower costs like shopping seasonal sales, buying remnant flooring and installing yourself if possible. This can reduce materials and labor costs by 25-50%.

How to Install Smartcore Flooring

One of the best features of Smartcore flooring is the DIY-friendly click-together floating installation. Here are the basic steps:

1. Prepare the subfloor – The subfloor must be flat, clean and dry. Address any uneven areas.
2. Lay the underlayment – For floors without attached padding, roll out an underlayment material first.
3. Arrange planks – Lay planks face down and arrange them before installing. Mix up plank direction for a natural look.
4. Click planks together – Connect long sides by angling together, then drop and press firmly to lock short ends.
5. Stagger joints – Avoid aligning plank seams across rows. Stagger by 6-8 inches.
6. Cut final row pieces – Use a utility knife and straight edge to fit final row planks.
7. Install trim pieces – Add transition strips at doorways or between rooms. Use quarter round along baseboards.

The most important tip is laying out planks beforehand for optimal mix and arrangement. Have all tools and accessories ready to go before starting the clicking process. Follow manufacturer instructions for sealing perimeter gaps and expansion space.

Smartcore Flooring Types

Smartcore offers three main categories of luxury vinyl flooring to suit any decor:

• Wood look – Realistic oak, hickory, maple, pine visuals in planks. Most popular styles with over 50 options.
• Stone look – Replicates natural stone visuals like slate, marble, travertine, granite. Has a textured surface and appearance.
• Tile look – Ceramic and porcelain visuals from 12 x 24-inch tiles to hexagons and mosaics. Grout lines replicated.

Within each category, numerous colors and patterns like whitewashed barnwood or weathered travertine are available. Accent coordinating tiles, borders and medallions can be added.

Wood styles mimic popular hardwood looks with varying grain details. Mix width options for a custom floor. Tile visuals can coordinate with actual ceramic tiles in bathrooms.

Is Smartcore Flooring Waterproof?

One of the biggest advantages of Smartcore flooring is it is 100% waterproof thanks to the stone-plastic composite core.

This means spills, pets accidents and cleaning liquids will not damage or seep into Smartcore floors. Mopping and daily wear and tear have no effect on the floor’s performance.

Even in laundry rooms, kitchens or bathrooms, you can install Smartcore without concern of moisture issues or water damage. The attached foam underlayment also resists absorbing liquids.

Additionally, Smartcore can be installed in basements and other below-grade rooms prone to dampness or flooding. The planks will deflect water and prevent swelling or warping.

For coastal areas and homes with plumbing leaks, waterproof Smartcore flooring provides reliable protection compared to carpets or laminates. That peace of mind is invaluable for many homeowners.

Maintaining Smartcore Flooring

Smartcore flooring is low-maintenance thanks to the durable top layer that resists scratches, dents and stains. Just regular sweeping and damp mopping is required for cleaning. Here are some easy maintenance tips:

• Sweep often – Sweep, dust mop or vacuum to pick up dirt and debris. This prevents particles from scratching.
• Damp mop – For heavier cleaning, mop with warm water and gentle cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Spot clean – Blot up spills immediately. Dampen a cloth with water or cleaner to rub out stains.
• Trim pets’ nails – Keep nails trimmed to reduce scratches and gouges. Use pet booties in high traffic areas.
• Use furniture pads – Attach felt pads underneath furniture legs to prevent scraping and indentations.
• Avoid harsh chemicals – Steer clear of strong cleaners like bleach. Don’t use wax or polishes meant for wood.
• Reapply finish (if needed) – For wood look planks, recoat with a layer of finish every few years in high traffic zones.

With proper care, your Smartcore floors can look like new for over a decade or more. The finish is long-wearing and resists foot traffic wear patterns.

Is Smartcore Flooring Durable?

Definitely – Smartcore flooring is engineered to be durable and long-lasting:

• The wear layer is 15-20 mil thick, protecting against indentations and damage from heavy foot traffic. It retains its quality appearance after years of use.
• The vinyl surface resists stains, scratches and scuffs better than laminate or real wood. It won’t dent like soft woods.
• The stone-plastic composite core is dent-proof and prevents shape distortion from water damage or temperature changes. It won’t swell or shrink.
• Attached foam padding cushions each step, absorbing impact rather than transferring it to the rigid core. This improves durability.
• Waterproof properties prevent moisture damage in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Water has no effect on flooring performance.
• Clicks hold tight over time. Planks won’t separate or unlock due to strong joints and precise manufacturing.

With proper care and maintenance, Smartcore luxury vinyl can retain its beautiful appearance and perform solidly for a decade or longer. The durable construction withstands kids, pets and hectic lifestyles.

Using Smartcore Flooring in Bathrooms

Because Smartcore flooring is 100% waterproof, it’s an excellent choice for bathrooms. The vinyl surface, embedded treatment and composite core prevent water penetration or swelling.

For bathrooms, consider grout-look Smartcore tiles that mimic ceramic tile visuals. This maintains a seamless look on flooring surfaces.

Around the toilet, make sure there is expansion space left during installation. This prevents issues with the toilet mount putting pressure on flooring.

Use silicone caulk around the perimeter of the bathroom and any seams near the tub or shower. This provides an added moisture barrier.

Bathrooms require extra diligence to dry spills, splashes and excess water immediately. A wet mop can spread leaks under vinyl flooring if not wiped up.

With proper installation and maintenance, Smartcore flooring stands up well in bathrooms for the long haul. The waterproof materials maintain their integrity and appearance.

Smartcore Flooring Warranty

Smartcore provides strong product warranties to guarantee performance and give customers assurance:

• Limited lifetime residential warranty – Covers manufacturing defects, wear through the top layer, separation or unlocking for the lifetime of the original owner.
• 10 year light commercial warranty – Provides coverage for light commercial installations in office settings or boutiques.
• 5 year heavy commercial warranty – Applies to flooring installed in heavy commercial settings like restaurants.
• 1 year radiant heat compatibility warranty – Covers floors installed over radiant heating systems.
• 30 day exposure to excessive moisture warranty – If flooring is exposed to excessive moisture during storage or installation, a 30-day warranty applies.

Always retain original proof of purchase and have the floor installed per manufacturer guidelines to maintain warranty eligibility. Contact Smartcore customer service regarding any warranty-related claims or issues.

Is Smartcore Flooring Eco-Friendly?

Yes, Smartcore luxury vinyl meets stringent health and environmental standards:

• It’s phthalate-free and contains no heavy metals, formaldehyde or toxic adhesives.
• Recycled content makes up a portion of the vinyl wear layer and stone-plastic composite.
• Low VOC emissions from floors result in better indoor air quality.
• GREENGUARD Gold certification recognizes low chemical emissions safe for sensitive environments.
• Meets California 0.13mm Proposition 65 requirements for minimal emissions.
• FloorScore certification verifies safe VOC emissions for good indoor air quality.
• Made in the USA from imported and domestically sourced recycled materials.
• Qualifies for LEED points as a green building product.

While synthetic, Smartcore flooring has sustainable manufacturing processes and emits little to no off-gassing or harmfuhl VOCs. The ease of care also conserves resources over time.

Cutting Smartcore Flooring

One of the installation advantages of Smartcore flooring is the ability to cut planks and tiles with just a utility knife. Here are some tips for proper cutting:

• Use a sharp utility knife and frequent blade changes for smooth cuts. Dull blades can tear or splinter.
• Score 3-4 passes with medium pressure when cutting, don’t try to cut through in one pass. Multiple lighter passes prevent cracking.
• Use a speed square as a straight edge guide. For curves, trace the outline with chalk to guide your cut.
• Cut face down to avoid chipping or scratches on the visible surface. Put a scrap piece underneath.
• Make relief cuts at corners when cutting holes for pipes or fixtures. This prevents cracking.
• For outlet cuts, slice horizontally across the plank then down vertically. This keeps edges intact.
• Hand trim to fit for final pieces instead of forcing them into place. Custom trimming prevents damage.

Go slowly, double check measurements, and use the proper cutting technique for clean edges. Patience during cutting makes installation significantly easier.

Smartcore Flooring Colors and Patterns

Whether you want light and airy or rich and dramatic, Smartcore offers tons of color and style options including:

Wood looks:

• Oak in natural, brown, gray, whitewashed patterns
• Hickory and acacia in a range of warm and cool tones
• Exotic looks like Santos Mahogany or Australian Cypress
• Distressed barnwood, handscraped and wire-brushed visuals

Stone looks:

• Classic options like travertine, marble, slate and sandstone
• Realistic textures and veining in tiles or planks
• Limestone, Flagstone and Dolomite options
• Mixed widths and mosaic patterns

Concrete and tile:

• Sleek solid gray, black and white concrete
• Porcelain, ceramic and terracotta visuals
• Hexagon, Moroccan and geometric tile patterns
• Metallic and shimmering styles

There are over 150 different Smartcore colors and patterns across all the flooring types. Coordinating tiles, borders and accents allow you to create customized designs. Mix and match widths for a one-of-a-kind floor.

Can Smartcore Flooring Go Over Radiant Heat?

Yes, Smartcore floors are rated for installation over radiant heating systems provided some precautions are taken:

• Maximum operating temperature should not exceed 85°F. Gradually increase heat in 5° increments.
• Turn the heating system off 24 hours before installation to stabilize the subfloor temperature.
• The system must cover the entire floor consistently. Not partially heating floors.
• New heating systems should run for a few weeks to force out residual moisture before installing floors.
• A temperature sensor should be mounted to monitor and regulate interior zone temperatures.
• Leave proper expansion space at perimeter and gaps around heat vents or registers.

With a sound radiant heating system and proper installation, Smartcore flooring performs very well. The attached foam underlayment provides additional temperature insulation as well. Just maintain moderate interior temperatures.

Is Smartcore Flooring Pet-Friendly?

Smartcore luxury vinyl is an excellent pet-friendly flooring choice. The materials and protective layers hold up well to furry friends:

• Scratch-resistant wear layer prevents scratches from pet nails even from larger dogs. Won’t mar like hardwood.
• Waterproof structure prevents pet urine from seeping in and causing damage or odor issues.
• Seamless with grout look tiles leaves no gaps for dirt or dander to get trapped.
• Comfortable attached foam padding creates a warmer, softer surface for pets to lay on.
• Quiet to walk on and absorb sound compared to hard surfaces.
• Low-maintenance for cleaning muddy paws, shed fur or accidents. No waxing needed.

For homes with pets, Smartcore flooring offers durability, waterproof protection and easy care. Pets won’t damage floors and clean up is simple. No lingering odors from accidents either. Pets and owners will love it!

Smartcore Flooring Thickness

Smartcore planks and tiles come in a variety of thicknesses:

• Standard Plank – 5mm thick (0.2 inches) with a 2mm attached pad. Total thickness of 7mm.
• Premium Plank – 5mm thick plank with a 3mm foam pad. Total thickness of 8mm.
• Groutable Tile – 5mm thick tiles without attached padding.
• Ultra Plank – Extra thick 20 mil wear layer with 6mm stone-plastic core and 2mm pad. Total 8mm thickness.

The total thickness for planks ranges from 7mm to 8mm. The premium and ultra thick options provide added wear layer durability and foam cushioning.

Tiles without attached pads are thinner for a smooth, seamless finish. Grout strips are printed on the surface of the tiles – no actual grout needed.

Even thinner Smartcore floors are highly durable, waterproof and scratch-resistant. The rigid core provides strength while foam cushions steps.

Smartcore Flooring on a Budget

While already value-priced, here are some tips to stick to a budget when purchasing Smartcore luxury vinyl:

• Shop sales and clearances – Look for discounts or rebates on materials at major retailers.
• Buy irregulars or remnants for significantly lower cost. Great for smaller rooms.
• Stick to smaller plank sizes like 5 x 36 inches to reduce square footage costs.
• Choose lighter oak colors over deeper stains which cost more.
• Install yourself if possible. This saves tremendously on labor costs.
• Purchase large multi-room quantities for tiered discounts at some stores.
• Mix and match with higher cost tiles only in key areas. Use budget wood planks everywhere else.
• Wait for seasonal sales in the spring and fall for 5-10% discounts on flooring.

With good planning and shopping around, you can find quality Smartcore floors for under $2 per square foot. Comparing retailer prices and sales gets the lowest price.

Troubleshooting Smartcore Flooring Issues

Smartcore flooring is fairly trouble-free, but here are some solutions for common issues:

• Planks separating – Make sure they are fully clicked together. Realign and tap joints flat with a rubber mallet if needed.
• Uneven floor – Check for debris under flooring and make sure the subfloor is flat within 3/16 inches across 10 feet.
• Noisy floors – Inspect joints to make sure planks are tightly locked. Add acoustic underlayment to a room to absorb more sound.
• Scratches – For minor scratches, rub the area with a melamine foam sponge. Limit direct sunlight which can cause fading.
• Denting – Ensure heavy furniture has wide, smooth floor protectors or furniture pads attached to legs.
• Discoloration – Rapid temperature fluctuations or excessive heat can scorch vinyl. Limit heat sources and sunlight.
• Ridges at joints – Make sure locking systems are fully engaged when tapping planks together. Over time they settle into place.

Address any issues immediately under warranty. With proper installation and care, Smartcore luxury vinyl avoids most common flooring headaches.

Finding Smartcore Flooring Promotions

Here are some tips for finding current Smartcore flooring discounts, sales and special offers for additional savings:

• Check retailers’ websites for promotions, percentage discounts or rebates on Smartcore products. Sign up for flooring promotional emails.
• Ask about bundles or contractor packs of Smartcore floors available at wholesale discount. Great for large installations.
• Look for coupons in home improvement magazines and newspapers for instant savings at major retailers.
• Visit deal websites like Slickdeals.net for alerts on sales and clearance pricing for flooring.
• Holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, etc. often coincide with flooring sales of 10% off or more.
• Shop end of model year clearances in late fall/early winter as stores empty out old inventory.
• Ask flooring contractor partners about promotional pricing or included installation on Smartcore purchases.
• Buy remnants at extreme discounts for use in smaller spaces like bathrooms or laundry rooms.

With some deal hunting, you can save hundreds on quality Smartcore flooring. Watch for the best sales and clearance prices.

Conclusion

With styles and textures to match any decor, Smartcore luxury vinyl flooring offers unbeatable durability, comfort and waterproof performance. Easy DIY installation, affordable pricing and great warranties make it a smart choice over traditional hardwood or laminates.

Use this comprehensive buying guide to pick the perfect color, style and floor plan for your home. Shop top retailers for the best deals. With proper care, your beautiful new Smartcore floors will look pristine for over a decade.