Coretec Flooring Review – Calypso And Springfield Oak
Over the years, I’ve made several flooring decisions. From solid wood floors to painted bathroom tile and to luxury vinyl planks, better known as LVP, I’ve done it all. And while vinyl seemed dated and cheap years ago, it’s really come a long way. In both house where I’ve used LVP, I opted for the Coretec brand. I should be clear – they are absolutely not paying me anything to write this – in fact, I selected them completely independently. After using them twice, I wanted to give my honest, no holds barred Coretec Flooring Review.
Coretec Flooring Projects
To give a little context, I chose Coretec flooring for two very different projects. One was for a daylight ranch home with a concrete subfloor on the lower level. This meant many flooring options, like solid wood, were ruled out.
The second project was a little under pressure in my current home, replacing carpet with some water damage to something more durable – so I chose LVP for the bedrooms and office.
Each project used the Coretec brand but slightly different types of boards. In the first, I used Calypso Oak which I absolutely loved. It was a wider plank. On the second project, I opted for Springfield Oak and I’ll compare the two farther down.
Ok, for this Coretec Flooring review, I’ll share a few things I love about this flooring and a couple of things that are not my favorite.
Coretec Pros
Overall, there are a lot of things I love about Coretec LVP flooring. Both projects were really successful and there are definitely some major highlights to choosing this type of floor. I’ll outline the very best things about this flooring along with what could be improved down below.
100% Waterproof
One of the things I love most is that COREtec LVP is waterproof, so it won’t warp or buckle when exposed to moisture. This is huge for pets and kids or in the basement, like my first home project.
Durable Flooring
Another huge selling point is that COREtec flooring is super durable so it stands the test of time. It’s less likely to scratch like wood (though I do love some good solid wood floor character).
Easy to Install
Being easy to install is probably one of the best parts of Coretec flooring. It means it’s easier to find someone to complete it and the job gets done sooner. Or, many people choose to DIY it. I’ve done one LVP floor but with a lot of help from my brother.
Most COREtec planks click together or float over existing floors with an attached cork underlayment, which makes it all easier.
Coretec Cons
Along with a long list of positives, there are a few downsides of COREtec flooring. I wouldn’t say any of these are major dealbreakers but definitely a few things to note while sorting through your project. I think it’s important to consider these as part of my overall COREtec flooring review.
COREtec Price
COREtec tends to be more expensive than many entry-level LVP brands, partly due to quality and brand reputation. However, I’m not really sure this is a total downside, it’s just a matter of paying for better quality. In my two projects, Springfield Oak was a cheaper option as part of their Classics line so it is possible to get a fairly good deal.
Availability
While not available at big box stores, Coretec is available directly to homeowners from many flooring stores. I’m not sure I’d actually call the availability a downside but if you’re the type who runs to the big hardware store and wants to get everything there this might be an issue.
Can Be Noisy or Hollow
COREtec, and any LVP can be a little noisy or hollow – especially on imperfect subfloors. The click-together installations sometimes make noticeable sounds. The first project I used this on in the basement made strange sort of swooshing noises as you walked, but I heard this lessens in time as it settles.
LVP Wood Colors
Overall, I like most of the COREtec Flooring color options though some seem a little dated and the wood grain pattern makes it look less expensive. For both my projects, I chose a neutral oak without strong undertones so there’s not a lot of red, yellow, or orange coming through.
I would say Coretec does seem to have more modern aesthetics than some of the other LVP companies – though I think they could expand!
Plank Accessories Options
One of the tricky parts about replacing any flooring can be transitions and stairs – which need special pieces and not all COREtec lines include them. Transitions sometimes need special pieces and stairs need treads and bullnoses. Many COREtec lines offer LVP accessories this but not all. That can be a big deciding factor if you have a big flooring project.
Calypso Oak vs Springfield Oak
As mentioned, I’ve used both Calypso Oak (on the right) and Springfield Oak (on the left) in flooring renovation projects. They are both a fairly neutral, natural looking wood finish. Calypso Oak has more textured and is slightly more neutral. It is at a higher price point and part of their premium, Essentials line.
The Springfield Oak is also a neutral LVP option, it doesn’t have strong orange or yellow undertones. It does have some variations making it a good choice for trying to complement some existing wood floors.
Neither of these COREtec colors are shades of gray so they are more natural and less dated than other grayed out laminate options. If I had to choose a favorite between the two, Calypso is a winner, though Springfield is a solid choice at a lower price point.
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COREtec LVP FAQs
Yes, most modern LVP, including brands like COREtec, is 100% waterproof. The planks themselves won’t swell or warp when exposed to moisture unlike wood. However, without proper install water can still get underneath and cause an issue.
According to my research, high quality LVP like COREtec can last 15–25 years (or longer) depending on the wear layer thickness, foot traffic, and installation quality.
Unlike hardwood floors though, LVP can’t be refinished, so once the wear layer is damaged, planks must be replaced. So it’s a good idea to always buy a little extra.
COREtec does cost more than most basic LVP brands but it also has a higher quality rating. In addition to good reviews for durability, it also has natural wood color options making it a good investment.
Final Thoughts on Coretec Flooring
I hope this Coretec flooring review and comparison is helpful in choosing what to do for your floors. It’s a big decision and can be overwhelming so hopefully the pros and cons help tip the scales. As a reminder, this post is not sponsored and all opinions are completely my own.
If you’re curious to know more about flooring, check out my Guide Comparing Types of Floor Materials and What I Wish I Knew About Wood Floors.
