Shaw vinyl plank flooring is one of the leading brands and offers features not found in other resilient plank flooring.
This Shaw vinyl plank review is more comprehensive than others – and more accurate. For example, we define terms like WPC and SPC and correctly explain the differences in the two major lines where other well-known review sites get it wrong.
This flooring type goes by many names: Resilient, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are most common.
Here’s what you’ll find in this Shaw vinyl plank and tile review:
Shaw makes two lines of resilient vinyl plank flooring: Floorte and Floorte Pro.
According to the Shaw product specialist we talked with, “The difference between Floorte and Floorte Pro is the core. The Floorte is made of a WPC core and the Floorte PRO is made of SPC core which makes it much harder and more rigid...also thinner because of the compression.”
Here are the construction details:
Floorte Lines have a WPC core:
It is a “wood plastic core” made of woody cellulose material blended with a plastic/polymer.
The floor is more pliable and softer underfoot.
A WPC floor is best for residential and very light commercial use.
It does not resist water as well as the SPC core.
Floorte Pro lines have an SPC core:
SPC is a “stone plastic core” made of ground stone mixed with a plastic polymer and compressed for strength and rigidity.
It is firmer and better suited to high-traffic commercial uses.
Best uses, according to Shaw, are “retail, boutique, beauty salons, auto showrooms, offices, coffee shops, lobbies, small banks, guest rooms, corridors” and similar uses.
Here is the Shaw Floorte vs Shaw Floorte Pro comparison table.
(1) Thickness: This is the total thickness of the plank or tile.
(2) Warranty: The first number is the Residential warranty. The second is the Commercial warranty.
(3) Installation: All Floorte flooring has locking sides for floating installation, BUT it can be glued down too.
Prices: The prices in the table are for the flooring only.
Installation cost: If you hire a professional to install your luxury vinyl plank flooring and tile flooring, cost ranges from $1.50-$2.75 per square foot. The size and difficulty of the job affects price. Who you hire, for example a handyman service or a flooring contractor, and cost of living in your area affect labor costs.
Accessories: Shaw makes matching trim and transition strips, if you choose to use them. Cost ranges from $1.50-$3.00 per linear foot.
A Word about Warranties
The WPC and SPC collections are covered by the same warranties.
Warranty length is based on the thickness of the wear layers.
Both Floorte and Pro come in several wear layer thicknesses (see the table).
There are other feature differences discussed in the Features section below.
Shaw Floorte Vinyl Plank Flooring
Shaw’s most popular vinyl plank flooring is available in more than 100 colors/style options. Shaw changes the lineup periodically, but you can expect a wide selection when you browse Floorte vinyl flooring.
This is WPC vinyl flooring. The core is a mix of wood and plastic/polymer. As the table shows, you have a good range of choices for durability (wear layer) and cost.
The wear layer thickness is the key to durability and where the flooring should be used. Here are your wear layer options and our recommendations:
8 mils: This is the most affordable luxury vinyl flooring from Shaw. We recommend it for homes with a “no shoes” policy. It’s ideal also for lightly used areas like guest rooms and vacation homes. It is also popular with homeowners that expect to live in their current home for less than 7 years or so. It can really make a difference on a home you’re trying to sell when it replaces worn out carpet or vinyl flooring.
12 mils: This is a popular choice for any home. There’s a good selection to choose from, and you can expect it to last 12-15 years depending on traffic volume how often the floors are cleaned of loose dirt that causes wear.
20 and 30 mils: These are premium luxury vinyl plank flooring. They are suitable for busy, high-traffic homes and are backed by solid commercial warranties too.
Where to Use Shaw Floorte Flooring
It really depends on the factors we’ve gone over – where it will be installed and how long you want it to last. And how much you want to pay.
However, a couple things stand out. This flooring feels softer under your feet. If you enjoy going barefoot and/or you stand in one place, like during food prep or when doing dishes, this floor will be more comfortable than a Floorte Pro floor.
Secondly, the wood core makes it easier to cut and trim. If you’re planning DIY installation, this is a strong consideration.
Shaw Floorte Pro Vinyl Plank Flooring
The SPC (stone/polymer core) vinyl flooring is available in 2 wear layer options:
12 mils: This is a great value. It costs much less than the Pro lines with a 20 mils wear layer, and the warranty is still very good. When you want to save a few dollars, especially if you don’t plan to live in your current home “forever,” then this flooring delivers good bang for your buck. In commercial settings, if you’re renting space and think you’ll probably have to move to a larger space within 5 years, then a more affordable floor makes sense.
20 mils: This is long-lasting, durable flooring ideal for commercial space you expect to be used indefinitely. Its value is realized after its been in use and still looking good for 10+ years.
Where to Use Shaw Floorte Pro Flooring
Because of the stone/polymer core and maximum hardness, we recommend this flooring for commercial use mostly. Use 12 mils flooring in areas with relatively light traffic. The 20 mils flooring is very useful for areas with heavy traffic.
Our contact at Shaw expounded on the differences in the two lines. She said, “The Floorte Pro core allows it to be installed in more extreme temperatures, -25 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit. The Pro can also endure heavier traffic and impacts, more direct sunlight and uneven subfloors.”
That temperature range means Floorte Pro vinyl planks and tiles can be used in garages and other unheated/uncooled space (but not uncovered areas).
Special Features of Shaw Vinyl Plank Flooring
Some of these notable features are unique to Shaw, but some are similar to other brands.
Stone Looks Too
It’s not all wood-look vinyl flooring.
Currently, the Floorte Pro Mineral Mix and Intrepid Tiles lines are stone-look options. These are 12”x24” tiles resembling granite, slate, sandstone and other natural stone flooring.
Float It or Glue It
Mohawk, as one example, makes locking lines and glue-down lines. You can glue locking lines, but can’t lock glue-down lines.
All Shaw’s luxury vinyl planks and tiles can be either locked together for a floating floor or glued. It’s your choice.
Locking is easier, so a better DIY choice, especially in smaller rooms like bedrooms, kitchens, home offices and similar.
Gluing makes the floor more stable, and a better option for large areas of floor in commercial buildings. Planks have to be locked together before gluing.
Install on Any Level and Over Most Subfloors
First, you can install both Shaw vinyl plank and tile flooring on any level including basements. It is moisture-resistant enough to prevent swelling from high humidity.
Secondly, as long as the subfloor is in good condition, it is suitable for Floorte and Pro lines. Make sure it is clean and that gaps of more than 1/32” are filled.
If you are installing it over tile flooring with grout lines, then Floorte Pro with its stone and polymer core will keep those lines from showing through.
Waterproof Construction
Shaw seals the edges of the planks to ensure they keep out moisture. Because the Floorte Pro does not contain wood, which can absorb moisture, it is better for areas where prolonged exposure to standing wateris possible.
Plus Flooring Has Pad Attached
Collections with a Plus in the name have attached underlayment. It is a 1.5mm Silent Step acoustical pad designed to reduce noise.
One of the complaints about harder floors is that they are noisy when walked on in hard shoes, when kids are playing with blocks, etc.
Most of the standard Floorte lines and all of the Floorte Pro lines are Plus options – they have the pad attached. This reduces noise and saves on the cost of buying and installing separate pad.
HD Flooring / Embossed in Registry
This is High Definition flooring. What it means is that the floor is manufactured using the EIR or embossed in registry technique.
Molds are produced using genuine wood planks. When the vinyl planks are formed in the molds, they are left with realistic wood texture. EIR creates a more authentic look that you can feel too.
FloorScore
This is an industry certification. It represents that the flooring has been tested for volatile organic compounds (VOC) and is a low-VOC option.
Most luxury vinyl plank flooring is low-VOC, but be sure you see the FloorScore label or a similar certification before you buy.
The selection is excellent…as is the quality. Shaw Floorte Plus 12mm flooring was named our Most Durable line of luxury vinyl flooring. It has a wear layer 30 mils thick and is covered by a 20-year commercial warranty, the best of the brands we’ve reviewed.
Cons:
Shaw is among the most expensive brands. While quality is very good, some of the flooring is slightly overpriced by about $1 per square foot. That’s our opinion. Still, it is excellent flooring, and if the extra dollar doesn’t make a difference, you’ll probably be happy with Shaw luxury vinyl planks and tiles.
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This tool is powered by our partner Networx which has been specializing in collecting, vetting and rating vinyl flooring contractors for more than 20 years.
Comparing the 3 bids can help you get the reasonable installation cost and avoid getting ripped.
The Bottom Line
Shaw luxury vinyl flooring is premium material, and it costs more than average. Some line, as you can see in the table, are among the most expensive luxury vinyl planks and tiles.
Selection is outstanding, and it is nice to have the option of gluing the flooring, if desired.
Warranties are average to good, and they are not prorated as some are. This gives you full warranty protection for the duration of the warranty.
If you want top-line LVP or LVT from a proven manufacturer, and are willing to pay more to get it, then you will probably be happy for many years to come with Shaw vinyl plank flooring.
FAQs
Q: Is there a way to see what Floorte or another style of Shaw flooring will look in my home?
A: You can do that with Shaw’s Floorvana + tool. This tool allows you to upload photos of a room and try out styles from Shaw, COREtec, and others.
Q: What type of finishing techniques does Shaw use on their vinyl plank flooring?
A: Shaw uses a variety of techniques including medium to heavy embossing that mimics hand-scraped boards and light texturing, which gives the appearance of wire brushing.
Q: Are all of Shaw’s luxury vinyl flooring waterproof?
A: No, so you’ll need to check each style beforehand. Each is clearly labeled on Shaw’s site but may have to dig deeper through other online retailers.
Q: Can I purchase Floorte or Floorte Pro vinyl plank flooring directly from Shaw?
A: No. Shaw only sells to dealers and retailers, not to the general public, although you can obtain samples from Shaw.
Q: What’s the most affordable line of Shaw vinyl flooring?
A: At the moment, that would be their DuraTru collection, which can be found for under $2.00 per square foot.
Q: Can I use a steam cleaner on Floorte or other types of vinyl flooring from Shaw?
A: No. You should only use cleaners and treatments recommended by the company, or you risk voiding your warranty.
Q: What is the warranty period on Shaw DuraTru?
A: It varies from 5 years for Heartlands to 30 years for City limits. Most of their styles are listed at 10 years, however.
Q: Does Shaw’s vinyl plank flooring release VOCs or affect my indoor air quality?
A: Your indoor air quality can be affected by a wide range of issues, including volatile organic compounds released by flooring. Shaw’s vinyl flooring is certified by FloorScore, which means it meets safe standards for IAQ.
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1 thought on “Shaw Vinyl Plank Flooring Reviews 2023”
I purchased the Shaw luxury vinyl plank. I have found it to damage easily while handling it. I opened the packing, which is flimsy, and found the top one or two had the corners chipped off. I also found while installing it I had to be extremely careful because the corners chip off so easily. I am committed to it now, because I’m half way done, but I will not buy this again. I will purchase another brand. Debbie Shaw
I purchased the Shaw luxury vinyl plank. I have found it to damage easily while handling it. I opened the packing, which is flimsy, and found the top one or two had the corners chipped off. I also found while installing it I had to be extremely careful because the corners chip off so easily. I am committed to it now, because I’m half way done, but I will not buy this again. I will purchase another brand. Debbie Shaw