Style Selections Dove Tail Oak

Transforming Your Space with One of Today’s Most Versatile Flooring Options

When I first walked into my friend’s newly renovated living room last spring, I couldn’t help but notice the stunning flooring beneath my feet. The rich, warm tones with subtle gray undertones created an immediate sense of sophistication without feeling pretentious. “It’s Style Selections Dove Tail Oak,” she said proudly, noting my admiration. “Best decision I made for the whole renovation.” After seeing how it transformed her space, I had to learn everything about this increasingly popular flooring option—and now I’m sharing that knowledge with you.

The flooring we choose serves as the literal foundation of our homes, influencing everything from acoustics to aesthetics to resale value. In a market flooded with options, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring stands out as an exceptional combination of beauty, durability, and affordability that deserves serious consideration for any home renovation project.

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, a seasoned DIY enthusiast, or simply curious about upgrading your current flooring, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring—from what it’s made of to how it performs in real-world conditions.

What Exactly Is Style Selections Dove Tail Oak Flooring?

Style Selections is Lowe’s exclusive house brand, developed to provide quality home improvement products at competitive price points. Within their flooring line, Dove Tail Oak has emerged as one of their most sought-after options, and for good reason.

Despite its name suggesting real oak hardwood, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak is actually a premium vinyl plank flooring (LVP) designed to mimic the appearance of natural oak hardwood. This is no ordinary vinyl, however. The product features incredibly realistic wood grain patterns that capture the authentic look of dovetail oak—a grayish-brown tone with subtle variations that complement virtually any interior design scheme.

The beauty of this product lies in its attention to detail. Each plank features a textured surface that not only looks like real wood but feels remarkably similar underfoot. The manufacturers have invested considerable effort in creating a product that offers the aesthetic appeal of hardwood without many of its inherent drawbacks.

Laminate, Vinyl, or Real Wood? Understanding the Material

One of the most common questions about Style Selections Dove Tail Oak concerns its composition. To be perfectly clear: it is not real wood, nor is it laminate—it’s luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring.

LVP has revolutionized the flooring industry over the past decade. Unlike laminate, which uses a layer of fiberboard with a printed image on top, vinyl plank flooring is composed of multiple layers of vinyl with a photorealistic image layer protected by a wear layer. This construction makes it significantly more resistant to moisture than either laminate or hardwood.

Style Selections Dove Tail Oak features a rigid core construction, giving it excellent dimensional stability. The core is typically made from a composite material that provides strength without excessive weight. Above this core sits a decorative layer featuring the high-definition dovetail oak pattern, and on top is a transparent wear layer that protects against scratches, stains, and fading.

This multilayer construction creates a product that delivers impressive performance characteristics while maintaining the warm, inviting appearance that makes oak so desirable in home design.

Where to Purchase Style Selections Dove Tail Oak Flooring

As a house brand exclusive to Lowe’s, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring is available at Lowe’s retail locations nationwide and through their online store. This exclusivity offers both advantages and limitations.

On the positive side, Lowe’s extensive retail network means you can likely find a location near you where you can see and touch the product before purchasing. The ability to experience the texture and color in person shouldn’t be underestimated when making a significant flooring investment.

Additionally, Lowe’s often offers installation services, which can be bundled with your purchase for a seamless experience from selection to completion. Their professional installers are familiar with the product’s specific requirements, potentially saving you from costly mistakes.

However, the exclusivity also means you won’t find this exact product at other retailers like Home Depot, Floor & Decor, or local flooring specialists. This may limit your ability to comparison shop or negotiate on price.

For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, Lowe’s website provides detailed product information, customer reviews, and often features helpful installation videos specific to Style Selections products.

Cost Considerations: How Much Will Your Project Cost?

When it comes to home renovation, budget considerations often drive many decisions. Fortunately, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak offers impressive value relative to many competing products.

As of my most recent research, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak typically retails between $2.89 and $3.59 per square foot, though prices may vary based on location and ongoing promotions. This positions it firmly in the mid-range of vinyl plank flooring options—more expensive than basic vinyl but significantly more affordable than premium hardwood, which can easily cost $8-$15 per square foot.

For perspective, a standard 12′ x 15′ living room (180 square feet) would cost approximately $520-$650 for the flooring materials alone. Additional costs to consider include:

• Underlayment (if not included): $0.30-$0.70 per square foot
• Transition pieces and trim: $100-$250 depending on room configuration
• Installation tools (if DIY): $50-$150
• Professional installation (if preferred): $2-$5 per square foot

Lowe’s frequently offers promotional pricing on flooring, particularly during major holidays and home improvement seasons (typically spring and fall). Watching for these sales can yield significant savings, especially for larger projects.

It’s worth noting that while the upfront cost is important, the long-term value should also factor into your decision. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak’s durability and low maintenance requirements contribute to an excellent lifetime value proposition compared to flooring options that may require more frequent replacement or refinishing.

Dimensions and Physical Characteristics

Understanding the physical specifications of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak helps both with planning your project and determining its suitability for your space.

The planks typically measure 5.98 inches wide by 47.75 inches long, dimensions chosen to closely mimic traditional hardwood flooring proportions. This size strikes an effective balance—large enough to showcase the oak pattern while small enough to minimize waste during installation.

As for thickness, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring is approximately 4.2mm (about 0.165 inches) thick. This includes a wear layer of 12-mil (0.012 inches), which provides the scratch and stain resistance crucial for high-traffic areas.

The planks feature a click-lock installation system on all four sides, allowing them to connect securely without adhesives. This floating floor design accommodates natural expansion and contraction with temperature and humidity changes, reducing the risk of buckling or gapping over time.

Each box of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak typically covers about 28.8 square feet, weighing approximately 38 pounds. This information is helpful when calculating transportation needs or determining if your subfloor requires additional reinforcement.

Installation: DIY-Friendly or Professional Territory?

One of the most appealing aspects of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring is its installation accessibility. The click-lock system is designed with DIY homeowners in mind, making it significantly easier to install than traditional hardwood flooring.

For moderately handy homeowners with basic tools, installing Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring can be a satisfying weekend project that delivers professional-looking results. The typical installation process follows these steps:

1. Acclimate the flooring by leaving boxes unopened in the installation room for 48 hours
2. Prepare the subfloor by ensuring it’s clean, dry, and level
3. Install any required underlayment
4. Begin laying planks from one corner, maintaining a 1/4″ expansion gap around the perimeter
5. Connect planks by angling and clicking the tongue and groove joints
6. Use a tapping block and pull bar for tight seams
7. Cut end pieces using a vinyl flooring cutter or utility knife
8. Install trim pieces to cover expansion gaps

Essential tools for DIY installation include:

• Tape measure and straight edge
• Utility knife with fresh blades
• Rubber mallet
• Tapping block (often included or available for purchase)
• Pull bar for tight spaces
• Spacers for maintaining expansion gaps

For those less confident in their DIY abilities, professional installation typically costs between $2 and $5 per square foot, depending on your location and project complexity. While this adds to the overall project cost, it may provide peace of mind and a manufacturer-backed installation warranty.

The estimated time for installation varies by room size and configuration. As a general guideline, an average-skilled DIYer might complete a 200 square foot room in 4-8 hours, while professionals could finish the same space in 2-4 hours.

Waterproof Performance: How It Handles Moisture

A significant advantage of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak over traditional hardwood or laminate flooring is its exceptional water resistance. But is it truly waterproof? The answer is qualified but positive.

Style Selections Dove Tail Oak is designed to be 100% waterproof from the top down. The vinyl construction prevents water from penetrating the surface, making it ideal for areas prone to spills or high humidity. However, like most floating floors, excessive moisture can still cause problems if it seeps underneath the planks and becomes trapped between the flooring and subfloor.

In practical terms, this means:

• Everyday spills and pet accidents pose no threat if promptly cleaned
• It can be safely installed in moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
• Steam mops can be used for cleaning (though manufacturers typically recommend against excessive steam)
• Standing water should still be avoided, particularly at the seams where it might eventually find its way beneath the flooring

The waterproof nature of this flooring has made it increasingly popular for whole-house installations, eliminating the need for different flooring types in different rooms. Homeowners particularly appreciate the ability to maintain visual continuity from dry living spaces into wet areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms.

For installations in potentially problematic moisture environments like basements, additional moisture barriers are recommended despite the waterproof nature of the product itself. This extra protection helps prevent moisture-related issues with both the flooring and the subfloor beneath.

Warranty Coverage: What’s Protected and For How Long?

Understanding warranty coverage is crucial when evaluating any flooring product. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak typically comes with a tiered warranty structure that reflects its quality positioning.

The residential warranty for Style Selections Dove Tail Oak usually includes:

• Limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects
• 25-year warranty on wear layer performance
• 10-year warranty against fading from normal indoor exposure

For commercial applications, the warranty terms are understandably shorter:

• 10-year warranty against manufacturing defects
• 5-year warranty on wear layer performance

These warranty terms compare favorably with competitor products in similar price ranges. However, as with all warranties, there are important exclusions and conditions:

• Proper installation according to manufacturer guidelines is required
• Regular cleaning and maintenance must be performed
• Damage from improper handling, accidents, or natural disasters isn’t covered
• Scratches from furniture without proper protectors typically aren’t covered
• Color variations between sample and actual product are not warrantable

It’s worth noting that warranty claims often require proof of purchase and may involve an inspection by a manufacturer’s representative. Retaining your receipt and several spare planks after installation is always advisable for potential future repairs or warranty claims.

Durability: How It Performs in Real-World Conditions

Theoretical specifications are useful, but real-world performance is what ultimately matters. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak has developed a reputation for impressive durability that makes it suitable for busy households.

The 12-mil wear layer provides substantial protection against everyday wear. For context, residential vinyl flooring typically offers wear layers between 6-mil and 20-mil, with 12-mil representing a sweet spot for most household applications. This thickness is sufficient to resist scratches from normal foot traffic, pet claws, and occasional furniture movement.

The rigid core construction gives Style Selections Dove Tail Oak excellent dent resistance compared to softer vinyl products. Heavy furniture can generally be placed directly on the flooring without leaving permanent impressions, though furniture pads are still recommended.

UV stability is another important durability factor. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak features UV-resistant coatings that help prevent fading, even in sun-exposed areas. While no vinyl flooring is completely immune to fading over decades of sun exposure, this product holds its color remarkably well compared to many competitors.

Temperature stability is a strength of this product as well. Unlike some flexible vinyl flooring that can expand dramatically with heat, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak maintains its dimensional stability across normal household temperature ranges, though extreme conditions should still be avoided.

The Finish: What Makes It Special

The surface finish on Style Selections Dove Tail Oak contributes significantly to both its appearance and performance. Unlike many vinyl products with an artificial-looking high gloss, this flooring features a low-luster satin finish that more accurately mimics real oiled hardwood.

This finish incorporates several noteworthy features:

1. Embossed-in-register (EIR) texturing – The surface texture aligns precisely with the printed wood grain pattern, creating visual and tactile realism that’s remarkably convincing.
2. Micro-beveled edges – Each plank features subtle beveling along all four edges, enhancing the individual plank definition and further mimicking traditional hardwood installation.
3. Anti-slip surface treatment – The finish provides improved slip resistance compared to smooth vinyl, making it safer for households with children or elderly residents.
4. Antimicrobial protection – The surface includes antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mold, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

The combination of these finish characteristics creates a floor that not only looks premium but delivers practical benefits that enhance everyday livability.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping It Beautiful

One of the most compelling advantages of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak flooring is its minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike hardwood, which demands periodic refinishing, or carpet, which harbors allergens and stains, this vinyl plank flooring maintains its appearance with simple routine care.

For everyday cleaning:

• Sweep or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dirt and debris
• Damp mop with a pH-neutral floor cleaner specifically formulated for vinyl flooring
• Address spills promptly by blotting with a clean cloth

Weekly or monthly maintenance might include:

• More thorough cleaning with a microfiber mop and approved vinyl floor cleaner
• Attention to high-traffic areas that may accumulate more dirt
• Inspection for any damaged planks that might need replacement

What to avoid:

• Harsh chemical cleaners, particularly those containing ammonia or bleach
• Excessive water that might seep between planks
• Abrasive scrubbing tools that could damage the wear layer
• Wax-based products that can create build-up
• Steam cleaners on high heat settings

With proper care, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak can maintain its original appearance for many years. Unlike real hardwood, which develops a patina over time, this vinyl flooring is designed to look essentially the same throughout its lifespan—a characteristic some prefer for its consistency and others find lacking in character development.

Installation Over Concrete: Special Considerations

Many homeowners wonder about installing Style Selections Dove Tail Oak directly over concrete slabs, particularly in basements or ground-floor rooms. The good news is that this flooring is indeed suitable for concrete subfloors, though proper preparation is essential.

The primary concerns with concrete installation include:

1. Moisture content – Concrete slabs, especially those below grade, often contain significant moisture that can affect flooring. A moisture test is strongly recommended before installation. Readings above 4.5% typically require additional moisture mitigation.
2. Surface flatness – Concrete slabs must be within 3/16″ level over a 10-foot span. Depressions greater than this should be filled with a self-leveling compound, while high spots may need grinding.
3. Cleanliness – All dust, paint, adhesive residue, and other contaminants must be thoroughly removed before installation.
4. Temperature – Concrete slabs naturally stay cooler than the surrounding air. While this doesn’t damage the flooring, it may make it feel cold underfoot. An insulating underlayment can help mitigate this effect.

When properly prepared, concrete provides an excellent substrate for Style Selections Dove Tail Oak. The stable, rigid nature of concrete complements the floating installation method, often resulting in a particularly solid-feeling floor underfoot.

Underlayment Requirements: What Goes Underneath

Style Selections Dove Tail Oak, like most floating floors, benefits from proper underlayment, though specific requirements depend on your subfloor and installation environment.

Some versions of this flooring come with an attached underlayment pad, which simplifies installation. If your selected product doesn’t include attached underlayment, you’ll need to choose an appropriate option based on your needs:

• Standard foam underlayment (2mm-3mm) provides basic cushioning and minor sound reduction at minimal cost
• Moisture barrier underlayment is essential for concrete slabs or areas with potential moisture issues
• Acoustic underlayment reduces sound transmission, particularly important in multi-story homes or apartments
• Thermal underlayment helps insulate against cold subfloors, improving comfort in basements or over concrete

Quality underlayment typically costs between $0.30 and $0.70 per square foot, with specialized acoustic or thermal options at the higher end of that range. While adding cost, appropriate underlayment significantly improves both the performance and comfort of your finished floor.

Installation with underlayment follows the same basic process as standard installation, with the underlayment rolled out and seams taped before laying the flooring. For attached-pad products, this step is eliminated, potentially saving several hours on larger installations.

Thickness and Profile: Impact on Installation and Performance

At approximately 4.2mm thick, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak is considered a standard-thickness luxury vinyl plank. This dimension influences several practical aspects of the flooring’s installation and performance.

The moderate thickness provides several advantages:

• Sufficient rigidity to bridge minor subfloor imperfections
• Compatibility with most transition strips and door clearances
• Easy cutting with standard vinyl cutting tools
• Manageable weight for DIY transportation and handling

However, thinner profiles also present certain considerations:

• Less inherent thermal insulation than thicker products
• Potentially more telegraphing of subfloor imperfections
• Less sound dampening without quality underlayment

For most installations, the 4.2mm thickness represents a practical compromise between performance and cost. Thicker products (7mm+) might offer marginally better performance in some areas but typically at significantly higher prices.

The relatively low profile makes Style Selections Dove Tail Oak an excellent choice for renovations where minimizing height differences between rooms is important. With appropriate transition strips, this flooring can be seamlessly integrated with existing ceramic tile, hardwood, or other flooring materials without creating trip hazards.

Scratch Resistance: Standing Up to Daily Life

With active families, pets, and the inevitable furniture movements, scratch resistance ranks among the most important performance characteristics for any flooring. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak’s 12-mil wear layer provides very good scratch protection for normal household use.

In practical terms, this means:

• Regular foot traffic, including shoes, leaves no visible marks
• Pet nails typically don’t scratch the surface during normal activity
• Occasional furniture movement generally won’t damage the floor
• Small pebbles or debris tracked in from outside rarely cause permanent scratches

That said, no flooring is completely scratch-proof. To maximize scratch resistance:

• Use felt pads under furniture legs
• Trim pet nails regularly
• Place mats at entrances to catch abrasive particles
• Lift rather than drag heavy objects
• Clean regularly to remove potentially abrasive dirt

One advantage of the Style Selections Dove Tail Oak pattern is that its varied coloration and textured surface make minor scratches less noticeable than on solid-colored or high-gloss flooring. This characteristic helps maintain an attractive appearance even after years of use in busy households.

Kitchen and Bathroom Suitability: Handling High-Moisture Environments

The waterproof nature of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak makes it particularly well-suited for kitchens and bathrooms—areas where traditional hardwood or laminate flooring often proves problematic.

In kitchens, this flooring offers several specific advantages:

• Resistance to food and drink spills
• Ability to withstand occasional appliance leaks
• Easy cleaning of cooking splatters and spills
• Comfort underfoot during extended cooking sessions
• Durability against dropped utensils and cookware

For bathroom applications, consider:

• Complete water resistance for shower splashes and bath overflows
• No warping from high humidity levels
• Slip resistance when properly maintained
• Warmth underfoot compared to ceramic tile
• Seamless installation around toilets and vanities

While suitable for these wet environments, proper installation remains critical. Pay particular attention to:

• Sealing around fixtures and pipes with silicone caulk
• Maintaining expansion gaps even in small spaces
• Using waterproof transition strips at doorways
• Ensuring toilet flanges sit properly above the flooring surface

With these considerations addressed, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak can provide years of trouble-free service even in the most moisture-prone areas of your home.

Customer Reviews: What Real Users Experience

Customer reviews for Style Selections Dove Tail Oak are predominantly positive, with the product earning average ratings between 4.3 and 4.7 out of 5 stars across various platforms.

Positive feedback consistently highlights:

• The realistic appearance compared to real hardwood
• Straightforward DIY installation experience
• Excellent water resistance in kitchens and bathrooms
• Good value relative to comparable products
• Durability in households with children and pets

Common criticisms include:

• Occasional manufacturing inconsistencies between boxes
• Some reports of clicking sounds in certain temperature conditions
• Limited color variation compared to natural hardwood
• Challenges with intricate cuts around irregular shapes

One particularly telling trend in reviews is the number of customers who return to purchase additional flooring for other areas of their homes after initial installation—a strong indicator of satisfaction with the product’s real-world performance.

Professional installers generally rate the product favorably as well, noting its consistent dimensions and reliable click-lock system compared to some competing products.

Competitive Comparison: How It Stacks Up

To fully evaluate Style Selections Dove Tail Oak, it’s helpful to understand how it compares to similar products from other manufacturers.

Compared to LifeProof vinyl plank (Home Depot’s house brand):

• Similar price point ($2.89-$3.59 vs. $2.99-$3.89 per sq. ft.)
• Comparable wear layer thickness (12-mil vs. 6-22-mil depending on line)
• Style Selections often features more textured surfaces
• LifeProof offers a broader color selection

Against NuCore from Floor & Decor:

• Style Selections is typically less expensive ($2.89-$3.59 vs. $3.49-$4.99 per sq. ft.)
• NuCore features a thicker overall profile (5.5mm vs. 4.2mm)
• Similar warranty terms
• NuCore includes attached cork underlayment on most products

Versus traditional hardwood:

• Dramatically lower cost ($2.89-$3.59 vs. $8-$15+ per sq. ft. for hardwood)
• Superior moisture resistance
• Easier installation
• Hardwood offers refinishing potential and potentially higher resale value

The competitive positioning of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak places it squarely in the “excellent value” category—offering near-premium performance characteristics at a solidly mid-range price point.

Pet-Friendly Features: For Furry Family Members

For many homeowners, pet compatibility is non-negotiable when selecting flooring. Style Selections Dove Tail Oak offers several characteristics that make it particularly well-suited for households with pets.

The most relevant pet-friendly features include:

• Resistance to claw scratches from normal pet activity
• Waterproof surface that withstands accidents during training
• Easy cleaning of pet hair without deep embedding
• No grout lines or deep texture that might trap pet dander
• Antimicrobial properties that help prevent odor development
• Warmer surface temperature than tile for pet comfort

Pet owners particularly appreciate the click-lock installation, which allows for easy replacement of individual planks should significant damage occur. This feature provides peace of mind for those with larger dogs or particularly active pets.

The textured surface also offers improved traction for pets compared to smooth flooring options—an important consideration for older animals or breeds prone to joint issues.

While exceptionally pet-friendly, maintaining some basic precautions remains advisable:

• Clean accidents promptly to prevent seepage between planks
• Use protective mats under food and water dishes
• Keep pet nails reasonably trimmed
• Consider runners in high-traffic pet pathways

Color Profile: The Dovetail Oak Aesthetic

The specific coloration of Style Selections Dove Tail Oak contributes significantly to its popularity. The name “dovetail” refers to the distinctive grayish-brown tone that strikes an effective balance between traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

The color profile features:

• A medium brown base with pronounced gray undertones
• Subtle variation between planks for natural appearance
• Cool rather than warm undertones that complement modern design trends
• Matte finish that minimizes glare and enhances realism

This color combination offers remarkable design versatility, effectively complementing:

• Cool gray and blue wall colors
• White or black cabinetry
• Stainless steel appliances and fixtures
• Both contemporary and transitional furniture styles

The moderate color intensity also provides practical advantages in everyday use. Unlike very light flooring that shows every speck of dirt or very dark flooring that highlights dust, the mid-tone coloration of Dove Tail Oak strikes a practical balance that helps disguise day-to-day soil between cleanings.

For design purposes, this flooring creates an excellent neutral foundation that allows other elements in the space to take center stage when desired. Alternatively, when paired with subtle wall colors and furnishings, the detailed grain pattern can become a featured design element in its own right.

Conclusion: Is Style Selections Dove Tail Oak Right for Your Home?

After thoroughly examining Style Selections Dove Tail Oak from every angle, it’s clear why this flooring option has gained such popularity among homeowners and designers alike. Its combination of aesthetic appeal, practical performance, and reasonable cost makes it an excellent choice for many applications.

Style Selections Dove Tail Oak is particularly well-suited for:

• Active households with children and pets
• Full-house installations where consistent flooring is desired
• Moisture-prone areas including kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
• DIY enthusiasts seeking professional results
• Homeowners wanting hardwood aesthetics without hardwood maintenance
• Renovations with budget constraints

The few potential drawbacks—slightly less authentic feel than real hardwood, limited refinishing options, and moderate impact on home resale value compared to hardwood—are generally outweighed by the significant practical advantages for most homeowners.

If you’re seeking flooring that beautifully balances appearance, performance, and value, Style Selections Dove Tail Oak deserves serious consideration for your next project. Its thoughtful design and quality construction offer the rare combination of immediate visual impact and long-term practical satisfaction—exactly what most of us hope to achieve in our homes.

As with any significant home improvement decision, seeing and touching samples in person remains the best way to determine if this flooring aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Visit your local Lowe’s to experience Style Selections Dove Tail Oak firsthand, and you may just discover the perfect foundation for your next home transformation.