Lifeproof vs. Smartcore vinyl plank flooring, which is the better choice? Although it depends on what you want, there are factors you should consider before picking either of the two.
We will be outlining the strengths, weaknesses, similarities, and differences of Lifeproof vs. SmartCore like durability, waterproof nature, installation, cost, and availability to determine which is better.
Raed on as we get into more details about both products.
Related: smartcore ultra vs Smartcore Pro
Lifeproof vs. SmartCore
Table of Contents
Lifeproof is a luxury vinyl flooring that comes in different sizes, specs, and colors, which can make you fall for it even before you decide to buy. It is produced by the Halstead industries and sold exclusively at Home depot.
Smartcore vinyl flooring is part of the COREtec brand. It has admirable features and comes in four collections; Smartcore, ultra, pro, and natural. Each of them gives your home a luxury look.
Lifeproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
Lifeproof products are grouped in terms of wear layers. They are the 6, 7 & 8, 12, and 22 mil layers. They come in different collections and styles.
The 6 mil layers have excellent specs and are available in over 12 colors. They come in wood and stone looks.
The 7 & 8 wear layers are the most common line. This collection has more colors and styles you can pick from; they have this hand-scraped look that makes it rustic and comes in stone, wood, and laminate. They are mostly 6 to 8.5m thick and 48 to 54 inches long.
The 12 -mil layer comes in mostly wood collections, and the rest have stone looks. The 22-mil layer has over 20 styles with traditional looks.
The 22-mil layer has the best specs in any Lifeproof vinyl planks, but its colors and styles are few; you can also find plank lengths about 72 inches long. They come in medium, dark, or light colors.
Pros Lifeproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
- They are durable
- They are waterproof
- Lifeproofvinyl floorings are easy to install
- They are relatively cheap compared to other vinyl products
- They are easy to clean
- They can be used anywhere
- It works with radiant heated floors
Cons Lifeproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
- It has weak interlocks
- The warranty terms apply only to the first user. It does not hold if you sell it to someone.
- They can easily fade when placed under U.V rays.
SmartCore Vinyl Plank Flooring
The SmartCore vinyl flooring has four collections: SmartCore, Ultra, Pro, and Naturals.
The SmartCore pro has 15 styles and colors ranging from light to medium, while the ultra has 25 styles and colors ranging from brown, light, medium, and dark.
The natural has 12 styles, and the colors are medium to dark, with the oak type in grey.
Pros SmartCore Vinyl Plank Flooring
- They are strong
- They are waterproof
- They are eco-friendly
- They have good warranty terms
- they come in different colors so you will always have the option of choosing.
- It gives you value for your money.
Cons SmartCore Vinyl Plank Flooring
- They are more costly
- It is easy to scratch and dent them.
Read: Are Ruggables Safe for Vinyl Plank Flooring?
What to Consider When Choosing either of the Products
1. Durability
Lifeproof products are durable, and this is because they have an ISOCORE body. ISOCORE features a closed-cell waterproof foam, and this makes them more durable.
Smartcore features a telegraphing tech that makes it easy to fix on any subfloors with slight imperfections and is more durable because of a stronger interlocking tab.
2. Installation
Lifeproof and Smartcore products are easy to install. Smartcore comes with a dual-inter locking mechanism and doesn’t need to use glue for installation. They also come with an attached pad for installation.
The LifeProof vinyl floorings are easier to install compared to Smartcore floorings. You only need a tapping block and a soft hammer. Lifeproof has a floating interlocking system that allows them to be easily installed.
3. Green Guard Factor
You can use Lifeproof and Smartcore safely in your house as they have low or no VOCs. VOCs affect indoor air quality. The green guard certification shows it is safe to use.
4. Cost and Availability
Another factor to consider when choosing the floor is the cost. The Smartcore is more costly than Lifeproof because Smartcore has more specifications, and it also depends on the line, style, size, and color.
The Smartcore price ranges from $2 to $3.80 per square foot and is only available at the Lowe’s store. The Lifeproof cost range from $2.9.39 to $3.39 per square foot and is only available at home depot.
5. Cleanliness
It is easy to clean both products. With Lifeproof, it is easier because of its layer that won’t allow mold to grow on it, they both resist stains and spills, but LifeProof resists scratches better.
6. Guaranty
It is important to look and be aware of the guaranty terms of both products before buying; with LifeProof, the guarantee only stands for the first buyer.
Lifeproof vs. SmartCore: Similarities and Differences
These are the core differences between the two product
Looks
Lifeproof has a traditional wood carving look, while the SmartCore floor has a wood-like natural look.
Interlocking tab
Lifeproof has a weak interlocking tab; while SmartCore features a strong interlocking tab. Lifeproof uses a floating interlocking system, while Smartcore uses a dual interlocking system.
Water Proofing
Both products are 100% waterproof
Installation
They are both easy to install
Warranty
A Lifeproof warranty applies to the first user only, while a SmartCore warranty applies to any user.
Environment suitability
Lifeproof is not suitable for outdoor spaces as it can fade easily under U.V rays, while SmartCore floorings can be used anywhere.
Read: Is Roomba Safe for Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Conclusion
Lifeproof and Smartcorehave similar features and are products of different companies. They both give you value for your money.
By specs, Smartcore is a better choice, but if your budget is small, Lifeproof is a good choice.
We have written this article about the differences between SmartCore ultra vs. SmartCore Pro to help you make informed decisions when choosing between both products.
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