Style Selections Flooring

Transform Your Space Without Breaking the Bank

In the ever-evolving world of home improvement, finding the perfect balance between quality, aesthetics, and affordability can feel like searching for a unicorn. Enter Style Selections flooring—a brand that has quietly revolutionized how homeowners approach their flooring needs. Whether you’re renovating your entire home or simply refreshing a single room, understanding your options is crucial. Style Selections offers an impressive range of flooring solutions that combine affordability with surprising quality and style, making it a go-to choice for budget-conscious homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike.

As someone who has helped countless friends navigate their flooring decisions and tackled multiple home renovations myself, I’ve developed a keen eye for products that deliver on their promises. Style Selections has consistently appeared on my radar, prompting me to dive deeper into what makes this Lowe’s exclusive brand worth considering. What follows is everything you need to know about Style Selections flooring—from quality assessments to installation tips, maintenance guides, and honest evaluations of how it stacks up against pricier alternatives.

What Exactly Is Style Selections Flooring?

Style Selections isn’t actually a manufacturer but a private label brand exclusive to Lowe’s home improvement stores. This house brand encompasses a wide range of home products, with flooring being one of its most popular categories. By creating this private label, Lowe’s can offer budget-friendly alternatives to more expensive name brands without necessarily sacrificing all the quality aspects consumers desire.

The genius of the Style Selections approach lies in its manufacturing model. Lowe’s contracts with established flooring manufacturers to produce these products, often using similar materials and technologies as premium brands but with simplified options and more economical design choices. This business model allows them to cut out middlemen and pass savings directly to consumers.

The Style Selections flooring line includes several major categories:

• Laminate flooring
• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile (LVT)
• Engineered hardwood
• Porcelain and ceramic tile

Each product line is designed to hit specific price points while maintaining acceptable quality standards. For budget-conscious renovators, this represents a significant opportunity to achieve high-end looks without the corresponding price tag.

Quality Assessment: How Good Is Style Selections Flooring Really?

When evaluating any budget-friendly product, the inevitable question arises: what corners have been cut? With Style Selections flooring, the answer is nuanced. The quality varies somewhat across different product lines, but there are some consistent patterns worth noting.

The laminate and vinyl offerings tend to represent the sweet spot in the Style Selections lineup. Most customers report being pleasantly surprised by the durability and appearance of these products, especially given their price point. The vinyl plank flooring, in particular, offers impressive water resistance and visual appeal that can convincingly mimic more expensive options.

Where Style Selections tends to make compromises is in the thickness of wear layers, the variety of patterns available within each style, and sometimes in the sophistication of the locking mechanisms. For instance, while a premium brand might offer 20-mil wear layers on their vinyl planks, Style Selections typically offers 6-12 mil wear layers. This is still suitable for residential use but may not hold up as well in high-traffic commercial settings.

The engineered hardwood options from Style Selections feature real wood veneers, though typically thinner than premium brands. This affects how many times the floor can be refinished but doesn’t necessarily impact initial appearance.

It’s worth noting that Style Selections flooring is manufactured to meet industry standards for emissions and safety. Their laminate and engineered wood products are generally CARB (California Air Resources Board) Phase 2 compliant, ensuring they meet acceptable standards for formaldehyde emissions.

The Installation Process: DIY-Friendly or Professional Territory?

One of the strongest selling points of Style Selections flooring is its installation-friendly design. Most of their products are engineered with the DIY market in mind, featuring user-friendly installation systems that don’t require specialized tools or extensive experience.

The vinyl plank and laminate options typically use floating floor installation methods with click-lock or fold-down mechanisms. These systems allow the flooring to be installed without adhesives in most cases, making it significantly easier for homeowners to tackle the project themselves. The planks simply lock together and “float” over the subfloor, which also makes future removal or replacement less challenging.

A typical installation process for Style Selections laminate or vinyl plank flooring involves:

1. Acclimating the flooring to your home’s environment (usually 48 hours)
2. Preparing the subfloor by ensuring it’s clean, dry, and level
3. Installing an appropriate underlayment if not already attached
4. Laying the planks row by row, locking them together according to the specific mechanism
5. Leaving appropriate expansion gaps around the perimeter
6. Installing trim pieces to cover expansion gaps

The tile offerings require more traditional installation methods with mortar and grout, which might be more challenging for inexperienced DIYers. Similarly, the engineered hardwood may require more careful handling and installation techniques.

What makes Style Selections particularly appealing to first-time installers is the comprehensive installation guides provided with the products. These instructions are generally clear and detailed, helping even novice DIYers achieve professional-looking results. Additionally, numerous online tutorials and videos specifically address Style Selections products, creating an accessible support network for those tackling installation themselves.

Purchasing Guide: Where to Buy and What to Expect

As a Lowe’s exclusive brand, Style Selections flooring is available only through Lowe’s retail locations and their online store. This exclusivity has both advantages and limitations. On the positive side, it streamlines the shopping process—you know exactly where to look. The consistent availability across Lowe’s locations also means replacement pieces are generally accessible if needed for repairs.

The in-store experience typically includes display samples that allow you to see and feel the different options. Many locations also offer take-home samples for a nominal fee (often refundable with purchase), enabling you to see how the flooring looks in your specific lighting conditions alongside your existing décor.

When shopping online, Lowe’s provides detailed specifications, customer reviews, and installation guides that can help inform your decision. They frequently offer free shipping on orders above certain thresholds, making it convenient to have your flooring delivered directly to your home.

Pricing is straightforward with Style Selections—you’ll find most laminate options ranging from $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot, vinyl planks from $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, and engineered hardwood starting around $2.50 and going up to $4.50 per square foot. These prices represent significant savings compared to premium brands that might charge double or triple for similar looks.

Inventory can fluctuate, especially for discontinued patterns, so it’s advisable to purchase slightly more than your calculated need (typically 5-10% extra) to account for cuts, waste, and potential future repairs.

Durability Factors: How Long Will It Last?

The longevity of any flooring is a function of several factors: the quality of materials, the thickness of wear layers, the environment in which it’s installed, and the maintenance it receives. Style Selections makes certain compromises to achieve its price point, but that doesn’t necessarily translate to poor durability if the flooring is used appropriately.

The vinyl plank options typically feature wear layers ranging from 6 to 12 mils thick. In residential settings with normal foot traffic, these can reasonably be expected to last 10-15 years before showing significant wear. The laminate options include an aluminum oxide wear layer that provides good scratch resistance for everyday use.

Where Style Selections particularly shines is in its warranty coverage relative to its price point. Many of their vinyl and laminate products come with limited lifetime residential warranties for structural integrity and 10-25 year warranties against wear, staining, and fading. These warranties aren’t as comprehensive as those offered by premium brands but provide reasonable protection for typical residential applications.

Engineered hardwood durability depends largely on the thickness of the real wood veneer layer. Style Selections engineered hardwood typically features veneers between 1.5mm and 3mm, which may allow for one refinishing over the product’s lifetime.

Environmental factors significantly impact durability. Style Selections vinyl plank flooring handles moisture well, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where humidity fluctuations occur. The laminate options, while more water-resistant than traditional hardwood, are not fully waterproof and should be promptly dried if spills occur.

Product Range: Exploring Style Selections Flooring Types

The diversity within the Style Selections flooring line deserves closer examination, as each product category offers distinct advantages and limitations:

Laminate Flooring

Style Selections laminate flooring features a high-density fiberboard (HDF) core with a photographic layer that replicates the appearance of natural materials and a protective wear layer on top. The imaging technology has improved dramatically in recent years, allowing for realistic wood grain patterns, stone looks, and even ceramic tile imitations.

Most Style Selections laminate features AC3 or AC4 ratings, indicating moderate to heavy residential use capability. The planks typically range from 8mm to 12mm in thickness, with the thicker options providing better sound insulation and a more solid feel underfoot.

The click-lock installation systems vary across different laminate lines, with some featuring angle-tap methods and others using fold-down technology. Both are designed for DIY installation, though the fold-down systems tend to be easier for beginners.

Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

Perhaps the most popular category in the Style Selections lineup, their vinyl offerings capitalize on recent technological advances in luxury vinyl manufacturing. These products feature multiple layers: a vinyl core, a photographic layer, a clear wear layer, and often a pre-attached underlayment.

The vinyl planks come in varied dimensions, typically 6-7 inches wide and 36-48 inches long, mimicking traditional hardwood proportions. The tiles usually measure 12×24 inches or 12×12 inches, similar to ceramic tile dimensions.

What sets certain Style Selections vinyl products apart is their rigid core construction, which provides better dimensional stability and dent resistance compared to standard flexible vinyl. Some lines feature WPC (wood plastic composite) or SPC (stone plastic composite) cores that offer enhanced durability and stability.

Engineered Hardwood

For those desiring real wood but with better stability and often lower costs than solid hardwood, Style Selections offers engineered options. These products consist of a plywood or HDF base topped with a layer of genuine hardwood veneer.

Available species typically include oak, maple, hickory, and occasionally exotic options like acacia. The finish options range from smooth to hand-scraped or wire-brushed textures that add character and help hide minor wear.

Most Style Selections engineered hardwood uses click-lock installation methods, though some lines require glue-down or nail-down installation, particularly for thinner products.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

The tile offerings from Style Selections include both ceramic and porcelain options in various sizes and finishes. Porcelain tiles, being denser and less porous than ceramic, offer superior durability and moisture resistance.

Style Selections tiles come in traditional square formats as well as rectangular planks designed to mimic hardwood. Finishes range from glossy to matte, with textured options available for better slip resistance in wet areas.

Unlike the floating floor options, tile installation requires more traditional methods involving mortar, spacers, and grout. While still possible as a DIY project, this installation is generally more labor-intensive and requires additional tools and materials.

Bathroom Compatibility: Water Resistance Capabilities

Bathrooms present unique challenges for flooring due to high humidity, temperature fluctuations, and direct water exposure. Style Selections offers several products specifically designed to handle these conditions, though not all their flooring is suitable for bathroom installation.

The vinyl plank and tile options are generally the best choices for bathroom applications. Most Style Selections vinyl products feature waterproof cores and tight locking mechanisms that prevent water infiltration. The fully waterproof options can be submerged or exposed to standing water without damage to the planks themselves, though water can still potentially seep through seams to damage subfloors if left standing for extended periods.

Select laminate lines from Style Selections feature enhanced water resistance through treated cores and improved edge sealing. These products typically carry “water-resistant” rather than “waterproof” designations, meaning they can handle occasional splashes and humidity but not standing water or flooding. For half bathrooms or powder rooms with limited water exposure, these water-resistant laminates may be sufficient.

The porcelain tile options provide excellent water resistance when properly installed with waterproof grout and sealer. Ceramic tiles are also suitable but may require more diligent sealing of the somewhat more porous material.

Engineered hardwood, while more dimensionally stable than solid hardwood when faced with humidity changes, is generally not recommended for full bathrooms. It might be suitable for half baths with vigilant maintenance and immediate attention to any water spills.

For bathroom installations, additional considerations include:

• Proper subfloor preparation with appropriate moisture barriers
• Careful sealing around fixtures, tubs, and toilets
• Selection of waterproof transitions and moldings
• Consideration of slip resistance, particularly in shower-adjacent areas

Maintenance Guide: Keeping Your Flooring Looking Its Best

One of the appeals of modern manufactured flooring is its relatively low maintenance requirements compared to traditional materials. Style Selections flooring follows this trend, with most products designed for simple care routines.

Laminate Flooring Care

Style Selections laminate requires minimal maintenance to preserve its appearance and performance:

• Regular sweeping or vacuuming with a hard floor attachment
• Occasional damp mopping with a manufacturer-approved cleaner
• Prompt attention to spills to prevent seepage into seams
• Avoidance of steam cleaners, which can damage the laminate’s structure
• Use of felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratching
• Maintaining consistent indoor humidity levels (30-60%)

The protective wear layer on laminate makes it resistant to staining, though acidic substances should be promptly removed to prevent potential damage.

Vinyl Plank and Tile Maintenance

The vinyl options offer perhaps the easiest maintenance regimen:

• Regular sweeping to remove abrasive particles
• Damp mopping with mild soap and water or manufacturer-recommended cleaners
• No need for waxes or polishes, which can actually damage the wear layer
• Use of protective mats at exterior doors to reduce dirt tracked onto flooring
• Avoiding rubber-backed mats that may cause discoloration

The waterproof nature of vinyl planks makes them forgiving of occasional spills, though standing water should still be promptly removed to prevent seepage through seams that could potentially damage subfloors.

Engineered Hardwood Care

While more resilient than solid hardwood, engineered products still require careful maintenance:

• Regular dust mopping or vacuuming with a hard floor attachment
• Cleaning with manufacturer-approved wood floor cleaners
• Avoiding excess water, which can damage the wood veneer
• Maintaining consistent indoor humidity to prevent expansion or contraction
• Periodic reapplication of finish according to wear patterns
• Refinishing when wear layer shows significant damage (if veneer thickness permits)

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Maintenance

Tile flooring benefits from:

• Regular sweeping and vacuuming to remove abrasive particles
• Damp mopping with mild detergent or specialty tile cleaners
• Periodic deep cleaning of grout lines with appropriate cleaners
• Resealing grout lines annually or as needed
• Prompt cleaning of spills that might stain grout

Pros and Cons: The Complete Picture

Every flooring option involves trade-offs. Here’s a balanced assessment of Style Selections flooring’s strengths and limitations:

Advantages

1. Exceptional value proposition: Style Selections consistently delivers acceptable to good quality at below-average price points.
2. Accessibility: Available both in-store and online through Lowe’s extensive retail network.
3. DIY-friendly installation: Most products feature user-friendly installation systems designed for homeowner installation.
4. Trend-conscious designs: The brand regularly updates its offerings to reflect current design trends in flooring.
5. Reasonable warranty coverage: Most products carry limited lifetime structural warranties and decent wear warranties given their price point.
6. Broad selection: From waterproof vinyl to engineered hardwood, the brand offers solutions for virtually every room in the home.
7. Compatibility with radiant heating: Many Style Selections products can be installed over radiant heating systems with proper guidelines.
8. Low maintenance requirements: Most options require simple cleaning routines without specialized products.

Limitations

1. Thickness and wear layer compromises: To achieve lower price points, wear layers and overall product thickness may be reduced compared to premium brands.
2. Limited design depth: While the styles look good, there may be fewer unique planks per pattern, leading to more pattern repetition than in premium flooring.
3. Lowe’s exclusivity: Being available only through one retailer limits shopping options and competitive pricing.
4. Resale value perception: While functionally adequate, budget-brand flooring may not add as much perceived value to a home as premium brands.
5. Limited commercial applications: Most Style Selections products are rated for residential rather than commercial use.
6. Potential stock limitations: Discontinued patterns may be difficult to match for future repairs or additions.
7. Variable installation system quality: Some click-lock mechanisms may not be as robust as those found in premium brands.
8. Sound transmission: Thinner products may transmit more sound between floors in multi-level homes.

Cost Analysis: Budget-Friendly but at What Price Point?

One of the primary attractions of Style Selections flooring is its accessible price point. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for different flooring types, along with what those prices include:

Laminate Flooring

• Price range: $0.99-$2.50 per square foot for the flooring
• Additional costs: Underlayment ($0.30-$0.70/sq ft if not attached), transitions and trim ($1-$3 per linear foot), installation tools

Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile

• Price range: $1.50-$3.00 per square foot
• Higher-end vinyl with attached padding: $2.50-$3.50 per square foot
• Additional costs: Underlayment (if not attached), transition moldings, adhesive for glue-down varieties

Engineered Hardwood

• Price range: $2.50-$4.50 per square foot
• Additional costs: Underlayment, transitions, installation materials

Ceramic/Porcelain Tile

• Price range: $0.99-$3.00 per square foot for the tile
• Additional costs: Mortar ($0.30-$0.50/sq ft), grout ($0.25-$0.40/sq ft), backer board if needed, setting tools

These prices represent significant savings compared to premium brands that might charge:

• $3-$7 per square foot for laminate
• $4-$8 per square foot for luxury vinyl
• $6-$12 per square foot for engineered hardwood
• $3-$10 per square foot for ceramic/porcelain tile

For a typical 300 square foot living area, choosing Style Selections over premium brands could represent savings of $900-$2,700, depending on the specific product comparison.

When calculating your total project cost, don’t forget to factor in:

• Subfloor preparation (leveling compounds, moisture barriers)
• Removal and disposal of existing flooring
• Professional installation if not doing it yourself ($2-$7 per square foot depending on flooring type and complexity)
• Furniture moving services if needed

Waterproof Claims: Reality Check

The term “waterproof” appears frequently in flooring marketing, but requires careful examination. Style Selections makes varied claims about water resistance across its product lines:

Vinyl Plank and Tile

Most Style Selections vinyl products are legitimately waterproof in terms of the material itself. The vinyl planks won’t absorb water, swell, or delaminate when exposed to moisture. However, this doesn’t mean the entire installed floor system is impervious to water damage.

Water can still seep through seams between planks, potentially reaching the subfloor where it can cause damage like mold growth or rot. The tighter the locking mechanism and the better the installation, the more resistant the overall floor will be to water intrusion.

Premium lines within the Style Selections vinyl collection may feature enhanced perimeter sealing or improved locking systems that better prevent water infiltration through seams.

Laminate Options

Style Selections offers both standard laminate and “water-resistant” laminate options. The water-resistant versions typically feature:

• Treated core boards that slow water absorption
• Enhanced edge sealing to prevent quick swelling at seams
• More water-resistant backing materials

These improvements make the laminate more forgiving of spills if promptly cleaned up (within 24 hours typically), but don’t make the product truly waterproof. Extended exposure to moisture will eventually damage even water-resistant laminate.

Engineered Hardwood

Style Selections engineered hardwood, like all wood products, is not waterproof. While the cross-layered construction makes it more dimensionally stable than solid hardwood when faced with humidity changes, direct water exposure will still damage these floors.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

The porcelain tile options from Style Selections offer excellent water resistance, particularly the porcelain variants which are fired at higher temperatures, creating a denser, less porous material. When properly installed with waterproof grout and appropriate sealing, these can create truly waterproof flooring systems suitable for wet environments.

For any installation where waterproofing is critical (bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms), additional measures should be considered regardless of the flooring material:

• Proper subfloor preparation with moisture barriers
• Caulking around the perimeter of the room
• Waterproof transitions between different flooring types
• Proper ventilation to reduce ambient moisture

Warranty Coverage: What’s Protected and What’s Not

Style Selections backs its flooring products with warranties that, while not as comprehensive as premium brands, provide reasonable protection for typical residential use. Understanding these warranties helps set appropriate expectations:

Structural Warranties

Most Style Selections flooring comes with a limited lifetime structural warranty for residential use. This covers manufacturing defects that might cause delamination, warping, or other structural failures when the product is properly installed and maintained.

These warranties typically require:

• Following all installation instructions precisely
• Maintaining appropriate indoor environmental conditions
• Using recommended cleaning products and methods
• Proper subfloor preparation

Wear Warranties

The wear warranties vary by product line:

• Vinyl plank/tile: 10-25 year warranties against wear-through of the decorative layer
• Laminate: 15-30 year warranties against wear, staining, and fading
• Engineered hardwood: 15-25 year finish warranties
• Ceramic/porcelain tile: Limited lifetime warranties against manufacturing defects

These wear warranties cover only certain types of damage:

• Wear-through to the decorative layer (not scratches or dents)
• Fading from normal indoor light exposure (not from direct sunlight)
• Staining from normal household substances (not from chemicals or dyes)

Common Warranty Exclusions

All Style Selections warranties typically exclude:

• Damage from improper installation
• Damage from improper maintenance
• Issues arising from excessive moisture or humidity
• Damage from pet accidents
• Dents from heavy furniture or dropped objects
• Normal wear patterns in high-traffic areas
• Color variations from sample to installed product
• Installation over radiant heat systems that don’t meet guidelines

To maintain warranty coverage, keep your purchase receipts and installation documentation. Some warranties are transferable to new homeowners, while others terminate upon property transfer.

Vinyl Plank Maintenance: Specific Guidelines

The vinyl plank offerings from Style Selections deserve specific maintenance attention, as they represent some of the brand’s most popular products:

Daily and Weekly Care

• Sweep or vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove abrasive particles
• Wipe up spills promptly, even though the material is waterproof
• Use walk-off mats at entrances to reduce dirt and grit tracked onto the floor

Monthly Deep Cleaning

• Damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for vinyl flooring
• Avoid “mop and shine” products that can leave residue
• For stubborn stains, spot clean with a manufacturer-approved cleaner

Preventative Measures

• Use felt pads under furniture legs
• Lift rather than drag heavy furniture
• Avoid rubber-backed mats which can cause discoloration
• Use protective mats under rolling chairs or replace with vinyl-safe casters
• Maintain consistent indoor temperature and humidity

Scratch Repair

For minor scratches in Style Selections vinyl planks:

1. Clean the area thoroughly
2. Apply a vinyl floor repair kit matched to your floor color
3. Buff gently with a soft cloth
4. Apply a thin coat of vinyl floor polish if recommended

For more significant damage, the modular nature of vinyl plank flooring allows for individual plank replacement:

1. Score the damaged plank with a utility knife
2. Use a heat gun to warm and soften the plank
3. Pry out the damaged section
4. Install a new plank by sliding the tongue under existing planks and pressing down

Aesthetic Considerations: Does It Look Like Real Wood?

The ability of manufactured flooring to mimic natural materials has improved dramatically in recent years. Style Selections has embraced these technological advances, though with some limitations compared to premium brands.

Visual Realism Factors

Printing Technology

Style Selections uses high-definition printing for its laminate and vinyl products. This creates detailed wood grain patterns, knots, and color variations that appear surprisingly realistic, especially at normal viewing distances. The print layer resolution in Style Selections products is generally good, though premium brands may offer even higher resolution imagery.

Surface Texturing

Where Style Selections particularly succeeds is in textured surfaces that align with the printed patterns. Many of their products feature:

• Embossed-in-register texturing (where the texture matches the printed grain)
• Hand-scraped textures that mimic artisanal wood finishing
• Wire-brushed effects that create subtle depth

These texture elements significantly enhance the realism, creating both visual and tactile similarity to natural materials.

Plank Variation

One area where budget brands like Style Selections sometimes compromise is in the number of unique patterns per product line. While premium brands might offer 20-40 different pattern variations to minimize repetition, more affordable lines might include only 8-12 unique planks. This can lead to noticeable pattern repetition in larger spaces.

Edge Treatments

Style Selections offers varied edge treatments that affect the final appearance:

• Micro-beveled edges that define each plank
• Square edges for a more continuous look
• Four-sided bevels that emphasize individual planks like traditional hardwood

Finish Options

The finish significantly impacts how wood-like the flooring appears:

• Matte finishes tend to look more natural than high-gloss options
• Satin finishes provide a subtle sheen similar to modern hardwood finishes
• Varied gloss levels within the same plank (highlighting grain patterns) enhance realism

Overall, Style Selections flooring can convincingly mimic natural materials when viewed at normal distances and under typical lighting conditions. Close inspection will reveal differences, particularly in the repetition of patterns and the way light reflects off the surface. However, for most practical purposes, the aesthetic achievement is impressive given the price point.

Installation Flexibility: Can It Go Over Existing Flooring?

One common renovation question concerns installing new flooring over existing surfaces, particularly tile. Style Selections products offer varying degrees of compatibility with this approach:

Installing Over Ceramic/Porcelain Tile

Most Style Selections vinyl plank products can be installed over existing tile provided:

• The tile is securely bonded to the subfloor
• No tiles are loose, cracked, or missing
• The surface is flat (variations less than 3/16″ over 10 feet)
• Grout lines are not excessively deep (typically less than 1/4″)

For tile with deeper grout lines, a leveling compound should be applied to create a smooth surface. Without this preparation, the pattern of the underlying tile may eventually “telegraph” through the vinyl, especially in high-traffic areas.

Style Selections laminate can also be installed over tile with similar requirements, though it’s less forgiving of subfloor imperfections than more flexible vinyl products.

Other Existing Flooring Considerations

Beyond tile, Style Selections flooring can be installed over various existing surfaces:

Over Wood Subfloors

• Direct installation is possible if the subfloor is clean, dry, and level
• Old squeaks should be addressed before installation
• Appropriate underlayment may be required depending on the product

Over Concrete

• Moisture testing is essential
• A vapor barrier is typically required
• The concrete must be level and clean

Over Existing Sheet Vinyl

• The vinyl must be securely bonded with no curling edges
• Cushioned vinyl is generally not suitable as an underlayment
• Single layer only (multiple layers must be removed)

Over Existing Laminate

• Generally not recommended unless the existing laminate is in perfect condition
• Any damage or peaking in the original floor will affect the new installation

The floating installation method used by most Style Selections products makes them particularly adaptable to various subfloors compared to glue-down or nail-down systems. However, proper preparation remains essential for long-term performance regardless of the existing surface.

Customer Experiences: Review Analysis

Consumer reviews of Style Selections flooring reveal patterns that help prospective buyers set realistic expectations:

Positive Feedback Themes

1. Value proposition: The most consistent praise centers on the balance of quality and affordability. Many reviewers express surprise at how good the flooring looks given its price point.
2. Ease of installation: DIY installers frequently comment on the straightforward installation process, particularly for the click-lock vinyl and laminate products.
3. Appearance: Many reviews mention receiving compliments from visitors who assumed the flooring was more expensive than it actually was.
4. Durability in normal conditions: Households with typical foot traffic report satisfactory wear resistance over several years.
5. Comfort underfoot: The vinyl products with attached padding receive particular praise for comfort compared to hard tile surfaces.

Critical Feedback Patterns

1. Edge integrity issues: Some reviewers mention problems with planks separating at the seams over time, particularly in the laminate products.
2. Scratch vulnerability: Households with large dogs or heavy furniture movement report more visible scratching than expected.
3. Consistency between batches: Some customers who purchased additional material later for extensions found slight color variations between batches.
4. Moisture sensitivity: Despite water-resistant claims, some laminate customers report swelling when exposed to significant moisture.
5. Installation learning curve: First-time installers sometimes report difficulties with the final rows or complex cuts around doorways.

Long-Term Performance

Reviews from customers who have had Style Selections flooring for 3+ years indicate:

• Vinyl products generally maintain their appearance better than laminate in high-traffic areas
• Sun fading can occur in rooms with significant direct sunlight
• Proper maintenance significantly extends aesthetic lifespan
• Transitions between rooms can become problematic if temperature and humidity fluctuate

The majority of long-term reviews suggest Style Selections flooring performs at or slightly above expectations given its price point, with most dissatisfaction stemming from unrealistic initial expectations or improper installation.

Scratch Repair Solutions

Even with careful maintenance, scratches can occur on any flooring. Style Selections products can be repaired using various methods depending on the flooring type and damage severity:

Laminate Scratch Repair

For superficial scratches that only affect the wear layer:

1. Clean the area thoroughly
2. Use a color-matched laminate repair kit (wax-based fillers work well)
3. Apply according to kit instructions, typically filling the scratch
4. Wipe away excess and buff to match surrounding finish

For deeper scratches that penetrate to the image layer:

1. Clean the damaged area
2. Apply a laminate floor repair paste matched to your color
3. Use a plastic putty knife to work the paste into the scratch
4. Allow to dry completely
5. Apply touch-up pen if needed to match the grain pattern

For extensive damage, plank replacement may be necessary. This is more challenging with laminate than with vinyl as it requires dismantling from an edge to reach the damaged area.

Vinyl Plank Repair

For surface scratches on vinyl:

1. Clean thoroughly with vinyl floor cleaner
2. Apply a vinyl floor polish or sealer designed for luxury vinyl
3. For visible scratches, use a vinyl floor repair kit with color-matched compounds

For gouges or tears:

1. Clean the damaged area
2. Apply vinyl patch compound
3. Texture while wet using a tool that mimics surrounding texture
4. Allow to dry
5. Apply touch-up color if needed

The advantage of Style Selections vinyl plank is the relative ease of replacing individual damaged planks without disturbing the entire floor.

Engineered Hardwood Repair

Minor scratches in the finish:

1. Clean thoroughly
2. Apply a hardwood touch-up pen matched to your floor color
3. Wipe away excess and allow to dry
4. Apply a small amount of hardwood floor polish

Deeper scratches:

1. Lightly sand the affected area
2. Clean dust completely
3. Apply wood filler matched to your floor color
4. Sand smooth when dry
5. Apply touch-up stain if needed
6. Finish with a clear coat compatible with your floor’s finish

For significant damage, the real wood veneer of Style Selections engineered hardwood may allow for professional refinishing if the wear layer is thick enough (typically 3mm or greater).

Color and Style Range

Style Selections offers a diverse but focused color palette across its flooring lines, balancing trend-consciousness with timeless appeal:

Wood-Look Options

The wood-look products span the following color families:

• Light oak and blonde tones (popular for contemporary and Scandinavian designs)
• Medium brown and chestnut shades (versatile for traditional and transitional spaces)
• Gray and greige tones (aligned with modern design trends)
• Dark espresso and walnut finishes (for classic and formal interiors)
• Rustic and distressed looks with color variation (for farmhouse and industrial styles)

Wood species replicated include oak, maple, hickory, pine, and acacia, each with characteristic grain patterns and natural colorations.

Stone and Tile Looks

The tile and stone-look products include:

• Marble replications in white, gray, and beige
• Travertine and limestone looks in neutral tones
• Slate effects in charcoal, blue-gray, and multi-color options
• Concrete-inspired designs in modern gray tones

Design Trends Represented

Style Selections regularly updates its offerings to reflect emerging design trends:

• Wide-plank formats (7+ inches) for contemporary spaces
• Multi-width planks in single packages for custom looks
• Long planks (48+ inches) that create a more continuous appearance
• Weathered and reclaimed wood aesthetics
• Low-gloss finishes that hide wear better than high-gloss options

Within each product line, coordinating transition pieces, stair nosing, and trim are available to create a cohesive look throughout the space.

Pet-Friendly Features

For the 67% of American households with pets, flooring durability takes on added importance. Style Selections addresses pet owners’ concerns through several features:

Scratch Resistance

The vinyl plank options with thicker wear layers (8-12 mil) offer the best resistance to pet claw scratches. The aluminum oxide wear layer on laminate products provides good scratch protection but can show wear from larger dogs or frequent activity.

Enhanced texture patterns on both vinyl and laminate help conceal minor scratches that do occur, with heavily textured or matte finishes performing best in pet households.

Moisture Resistance

Accidents happen, making water resistance crucial for pet owners. The fully waterproof vinyl options allow time for discovery and cleanup without permanent damage. Water-resistant laminate provides more protection than traditional hardwood but requires prompter attention to accidents.

Noise Reduction

The sound of pet nails clicking on hard surfaces can be minimized by:

• Choosing vinyl plank with attached padding
• Installing appropriate underlayment under laminate flooring
• Selecting textured surfaces that provide better paw traction

Stain Resistance

Style Selections vinyl products offer excellent stain resistance, with sealed surfaces that prevent absorption of pet accidents. The laminate options also resist staining when promptly cleaned, though edges and seams can be vulnerable points.

Comfort Considerations

For aging pets, the softer surface and warmer feel of vinyl plank flooring may be more comfortable than harder tile or stone-look products.

For optimal performance in pet households, the luxury vinyl plank lines within the Style Selections collection typically offer the best balance of durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance.

Competitive Analysis: How Does Style Selections Compare?

Understanding Style Selections’ position in the market requires comparing it to both other budget brands and premium alternatives:

Vs. Other Budget Brands

TrafficMaster (Home Depot’s house brand)

• Similar price points
• Comparable warranty structures
• Style Selections often offers thicker wear layers on vinyl
• TrafficMaster has more extensive tile options

SmartCore (Lowe’s other exclusive brand)

• SmartCore positions as a premium to Style Selections
• SmartCore offers more waterproof core options
• Higher price point but enhanced durability
• More advanced locking systems

Floorté by Shaw

• Entry-level line from a name brand manufacturer
• Slightly higher price point than Style Selections
• More comprehensive warranty coverage
• Potentially better long-term support for discontinued products

Vs. Premium Brands

Pergo

• Pioneer in laminate flooring with stronger brand recognition
• 30-50% higher price point
• More advanced surface texturing technology
• Superior wear ratings and impact resistance
• More comprehensive moisture protection systems

COREtec

• Industry leader in luxury vinyl plank
• Nearly double the price of comparable Style Selections products
• Thicker wear layers (20+ mil vs 6-12 mil)
• More unique patterns per collection
• Advanced core construction with better dimensional stability

Armstrong

• Established flooring manufacturer with diverse product lines
• Premium pricing (50-100% higher than Style Selections)
• More extensive design selections
• Commercial-grade options available
• Typically thicker overall product construction

Bruce Hardwood

• Traditional hardwood with solid and engineered options
• Significantly higher price point
• Real wood throughout (in solid products)
• Greater refinishing potential
• Potentially higher home resale value contribution

Value Proposition Analysis

Where Style Selections creates value:

• Achieving 70-80% of the aesthetic appeal of premium products at 40-60% of the cost
• Focusing on residential-appropriate durability rather than commercial-grade performance
• Streamlining color and style options to the most popular choices
• Leveraging Lowe’s distribution scale for manufacturing efficiencies
• Simplifying packaging and marketing compared to premium brands

The primary compromises compared to premium brands involve:

• Thickness of wear layers and overall product
• Sophistication of locking mechanisms
• Depth of embossing and texture realism
• Number of unique patterns per collection
• Comprehensive nature of warranty coverage

For most residential applications with normal foot traffic, these compromises may be acceptable given the significant cost savings. The decision ultimately depends on the specific demands of your space, your long-term plans for the property, and your budget priorities.

Conclusion: Is Style Selections Right for Your Project?

After thoroughly examining Style Selections flooring across multiple dimensions, several conclusions emerge to guide your purchasing decision:

Style Selections represents an impressive value proposition for budget-conscious renovators. The brand successfully delivers acceptable to good quality at below-average price points, making attractive flooring accessible to more homeowners. While it won’t match the performance extremes of premium brands, it provides a sensible middle ground for most residential applications.

The vinyl plank offerings stand out as particular strengths in the lineup. These products deliver the best balance of appearance, durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. For moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, Style Selections vinyl provides especially compelling value.

DIY installers will appreciate the user-friendly design of most Style Selections products. The click-lock systems, comprehensive instructions, and available supporting materials make these products accessible even to first-time installers, creating additional cost savings beyond the product price.

For investment properties, rental units, or homeowners planning to sell within 5-7 years, Style Selections offers particularly strong value. The initial appearance rivals more expensive options, while the durability should exceed the typical ownership period when properly maintained.

Homeowners planning to remain in their homes long-term should weigh the savings against potential earlier replacement compared to premium products. In high-traffic areas, the value equation may favor more durable options, while Style Selections remains compelling for moderate-use spaces.

Style Selections succeeds by understanding what matters most to average homeowners: a good-looking floor that performs adequately for its intended use at a price that doesn’t break the renovation budget. By focusing on these core needs rather than extreme performance specifications, the brand delivers products that satisfy most residential requirements.

The final decision should consider your specific circumstances—budget constraints, intended use, installation capabilities, and design priorities. Style Selections offers an intelligent compromise that allows more homeowners to achieve attractive, functional floors without excessive expense—a balance that makes it worth serious consideration for your next flooring project.