Style Selections Tawny Oak

Transform Your Space with This Versatile Flooring Solution

When I first laid eyes on Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring in my friend’s newly renovated living room, I was immediately captivated. The rich, warm tones and authentic wood-like texture made me question whether it was genuine hardwood or something else entirely. That moment sparked my journey into researching everything about this increasingly popular flooring option, and I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered with you.

If you’re considering a flooring upgrade that balances aesthetics, durability, and budget, you’ve likely encountered Style Selections Tawny Oak in your search. But what exactly is it? Is it the right choice for your home? And how does it stand up to the demands of daily life? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this remarkable flooring solution.

What Is Style Selections Tawny Oak Flooring?

Style Selections Tawny Oak is a premium laminate flooring product that has gained significant popularity among homeowners and contractors alike. Available exclusively at Lowe’s, it’s part of the Style Selections brand, which is known for offering quality home improvement products at accessible price points.

The Tawny Oak variant specifically refers to a warm, medium-brown oak finish that strikes the perfect balance between traditional and contemporary styling. It features a textured surface with realistic wood grain patterns that mimic the appearance of natural oak hardwood, complete with knots, variations, and character marks that give it an authentic look.

Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and practical performance, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who desire the appearance of real wood without the associated maintenance and cost concerns.

Laminate vs. Real Wood: The Truth About Style Selections Tawny Oak

One of the most common questions about this flooring is whether it’s real wood or laminate. Style Selections Tawny Oak is a high-quality laminate flooring product, not solid hardwood. However, this isn’t a disadvantage—quite the opposite.

Modern laminate flooring technology has advanced tremendously in recent years. Style Selections Tawny Oak is constructed with multiple layers that work together to create a durable, stable, and beautiful floor:

1. A wear layer on top that protects against scratches, stains, and fading
2. A detailed image layer that provides the realistic wood appearance
3. A high-density fiberboard (HDF) core that offers stability and impact resistance
4. A backing layer that provides additional structural support and moisture resistance

The result is a product that looks remarkably like natural oak but offers several advantages over real wood. It’s more resistant to moisture damage, less prone to scratching, doesn’t fade as quickly in sunlight, and doesn’t require the sanding and refinishing that hardwood floors eventually need.

I spoke with Mark, a contractor who has installed Style Selections flooring in dozens of homes. “My clients often can’t tell the difference between this laminate and real hardwood once it’s installed,” he told me. “The texture and variation in the planks are that convincing.”

Where to Purchase Style Selections Tawny Oak Flooring

Style Selections is a proprietary brand exclusive to Lowe’s home improvement stores. You can purchase Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring at any Lowe’s retail location or through their website. This exclusivity means you won’t find this exact product at other retailers like Home Depot, Menards, or local flooring specialty stores.

When shopping, you might notice similar oak-toned laminate options from other manufacturers, but the specific Style Selections Tawny Oak product is only available through Lowe’s. This exclusivity can be beneficial when it comes to consistency—if you need additional boxes later for repairs or to extend your flooring into other rooms, you know exactly where to find a perfect match.

I recommend checking the Lowe’s website before visiting a store to confirm availability in your area, as stock can vary by location. You can also order online for home delivery or in-store pickup, which is convenient if you’re planning a large project.

The Investment: Style Selections Tawny Oak Flooring Cost

One of the most compelling advantages of Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring is its affordability compared to hardwood alternatives. As of my latest research, Style Selections Tawny Oak laminate typically costs between $1.79 and $2.49 per square foot, depending on current promotions and your location.

This price point represents significant savings compared to solid hardwood flooring, which can range from $5 to $15 per square foot for materials alone. Even engineered hardwood, which is more affordable than solid hardwood, usually starts at around $3 to $5 per square foot.

Keep in mind that these prices reflect the material cost only. For a complete budget, you’ll need to consider:

• Underlayment (approximately $0.30-$0.50 per square foot)
• Transition pieces and trim (varies by room configuration)
• Tools and installation supplies (if installing yourself)
• Professional installation (if you choose not to DIY)

Professional installation typically adds $2-$3 per square foot, though rates vary by location and complexity. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, Style Selections Tawny Oak’s click-lock installation system makes it accessible for intermediate-level home improvers, which can save you considerably on installation costs.

When calculating your budget, I recommend purchasing approximately 10% more flooring than your measured square footage to account for cuts, waste, and potential future repairs. This extra material ensures you have matching pieces if you need to replace a damaged plank years later.

Dimensions and Specifications of Style Selections Tawny Oak Planks

Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring comes in a convenient plank format designed to make installation straightforward while creating a realistic hardwood look. Each plank measures approximately 47.25 inches long by 7.48 inches wide, offering a generous size that allows for faster installation compared to narrower planks.

The thickness of Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring is approximately 8mm (about 5/16 inch), which strikes a balance between durability and a reasonable installation height that minimizes transition issues with other flooring types. This thickness includes the wear layer, which is crucial for longevity and resistance to daily wear.

Each box of Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring covers about 19.63 square feet, though this may vary slightly between production runs. This coverage amount is important to know when calculating how many boxes you’ll need for your project.

The planks feature a click-lock edge design that allows them to fit together securely without glue, creating what’s known as a “floating floor.” This interlocking system not only simplifies installation but also helps prevent gaps from forming between planks over time.

I appreciated the thoughtful dimensions when I helped my sister install this flooring in her dining room. The width of the planks made the room feel proportional, and the length allowed us to span significant distances with fewer seams, enhancing the authentic hardwood look.

Installation: Getting Your Tawny Oak Flooring in Place

Installing Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring is a project that many homeowners can tackle themselves, thanks to its user-friendly click-lock system. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the installation process:

Preparation

Before installation begins, acclimate your flooring by placing the unopened boxes in the room where they’ll be installed for at least 48 hours. This allows the material to adjust to the temperature and humidity of your space, reducing the risk of expansion or contraction issues later.

While the flooring acclimates, prepare your subfloor by ensuring it’s clean, dry, and level. Any variations greater than 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span should be addressed by grinding down high spots or using a leveling compound for low areas.

Underlayment

Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring requires an underlayment unless you’re installing over an existing floor that already has one incorporated. The underlayment serves several important functions:

• Provides cushioning for a more comfortable feel underfoot
• Reduces noise transmission
• Creates a moisture barrier (particularly important for concrete subfloors)
• Helps smooth out minor subfloor imperfections

Most installers recommend a 2mm foam underlayment with a built-in moisture barrier. Roll this out across your prepared subfloor, trim to fit, and tape the seams with underlayment tape before beginning to lay planks.

Layout Planning

Before placing your first plank, plan your layout carefully. In most cases, you’ll want to install the flooring parallel to the longest wall in the room. Ensure that the last row of planks will be at least 2 inches wide; if your calculations show it will be narrower, adjust by cutting the first row narrower as well.

Leave a 1/4 to 3/8 inch expansion gap around all fixed objects like walls, cabinets, and doorframes. This gap allows the flooring to expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes without buckling.

Installation Process

1. Start in a corner, placing the first plank with the tongue side facing the wall.
2. Use spacers to maintain your expansion gap along the walls.
3. Connect the second plank to the first by angling it slightly, inserting the tongue into the groove, and then laying it flat.
4. Complete the first row, cutting the last piece as needed to fit while maintaining the expansion gap.
5. Begin the second row with a plank cut to a different length to stagger the seams (at least 6 inches from any seam in the previous row).
6. Continue this pattern, checking periodically that your rows remain straight.
7. For the last row, you’ll likely need to cut the planks lengthwise to fit while maintaining the expansion gap.
8. Install transition pieces at doorways and where the laminate meets other flooring types.

My neighbor, who installed Style Selections Tawny Oak throughout her first floor, shared this tip: “Use a tapping block and pull bar to ensure the planks are fully seated together. Never hammer directly on the edges of the planks, as this can damage the locking mechanism.”

Water Resistance: How Style Selections Tawny Oak Handles Moisture

One common concern with any wood or wood-look flooring is its performance in areas that may encounter moisture. Style Selections Tawny Oak offers better moisture resistance than hardwood, but it’s important to understand its limitations.

The laminate construction of Style Selections Tawny Oak provides some inherent protection against moisture from above. The wear layer helps prevent spills from immediately penetrating the surface, giving you time to wipe up liquid before it can cause damage. However, Style Selections Tawny Oak is water-resistant, not fully waterproof, which is an important distinction to understand.

Brief exposure to moisture, such as quickly cleaned spills or damp feet, shouldn’t cause problems. However, standing water left for extended periods can still potentially seep between planks and cause swelling or warping of the core material.

For installation in areas with moisture concerns like kitchens, bathrooms, or basements, take these precautions:

• Apply a silicone sealant in the expansion gaps around the perimeter in moisture-prone areas
• Use extra care when installing around fixed plumbing fixtures
• Consider applying a bead of waterproof wood glue along the tongue and groove in bathrooms or areas near exterior doors
• Place mats at entry points and in front of sinks

It’s worth noting that while Style Selections Tawny Oak can be installed in kitchens and bathrooms with proper precautions, some homeowners prefer fully waterproof options like luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or tile in these spaces for maximum peace of mind.

As James, a flooring specialist I consulted, pointed out, “Even with laminate’s improved moisture resistance, it’s all about maintenance. Clean up spills promptly, and you’ll likely never have an issue. But for areas like mudrooms or bathrooms that see frequent water exposure, you might consider additional protection or different flooring.”

Durability: Will Your Style Selections Tawny Oak Floor Stand the Test of Time?

Durability is a primary concern for any flooring investment, and Style Selections Tawny Oak delivers impressive performance in this area. The product features an AC rating (Abrasion Class) that indicates its durability level. Most Style Selections laminate products carry an AC3 or AC4 rating, making them suitable for moderate to heavy residential use and even light commercial applications.

The wear layer on Style Selections Tawny Oak is designed to resist scratches, stains, and fading from UV exposure. This protective layer helps maintain the floor’s appearance even in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.

Impact resistance is another strong point for this flooring. The high-density fiberboard core provides good stability and can withstand the occasional dropped item without denting—a common issue with some hardwood floors.

That said, no flooring is indestructible. Very heavy objects dragged across the surface, pet claws left unclipped, or extremely heavy furniture without proper floor protectors can still potentially cause damage over time.

In my experience visiting homes with Style Selections flooring installed years ago, I’ve been impressed by how well it maintains its appearance. One family I know has had their Tawny Oak floors for over five years in a household with two large dogs and three children, and while there are minor signs of wear in the highest traffic areas, the overall appearance remains attractive and functional.

Warranty Coverage for Your Investment

Style Selections backs their Tawny Oak flooring with a solid warranty that provides additional peace of mind for your investment. Typically, this includes:

• A limited lifetime residential warranty against manufacturing defects
• A 15-year warranty against wear, staining, and fading under normal residential use conditions

These warranty terms may vary slightly based on when and where you purchase the product, so I recommend reviewing the specific warranty information included with your flooring or available on the Lowe’s website at the time of purchase.

To maintain warranty coverage, follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance guidelines carefully. This includes using appropriate underlayment, maintaining proper expansion gaps, and following the recommended cleaning procedures.

It’s worth noting that, like most flooring warranties, the coverage typically doesn’t include damage from improper installation, inadequate subfloor preparation, exposure to standing water, or extreme environmental conditions. The warranty also generally doesn’t cover normal wear and tear or damage from improper maintenance.

Keep your receipt and warranty information in a safe place after purchase. Taking photos of your flooring after installation can also be helpful documentation to have if you ever need to file a warranty claim.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping Your Tawny Oak Floors Looking Their Best

One of the significant advantages of Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring is its relatively low maintenance requirements compared to natural hardwood. With proper care, your floors can maintain their beautiful appearance for many years.

Regular Cleaning

For day-to-day cleaning:

1. Sweep or vacuum regularly using a soft brush attachment (avoid beater bars or rotating brushes that could scratch the surface)
2. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp mop with a cleaning solution specifically formulated for laminate floors
3. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent potential moisture damage

What to Avoid

To protect your Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring:

• Never use steam cleaners, which can force moisture into the seams between planks
• Avoid wet mopping or allowing water to stand on the floor
• Don’t use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring pads
• Skip traditional wax or polish products, which can create a slippery buildup
• Don’t attempt to sand or refinish the floor as you would with hardwood

Preventative Measures

A few simple preventative steps can extend the life of your floors:

• Place floor protectors under furniture legs
• Use soft rubber or felt casters on rolling furniture
• Place entry mats at doorways to catch dirt and moisture
• Consider area rugs in high-traffic zones (with non-rubber backing)
• Keep pet nails trimmed to minimize scratching
• Lift furniture rather than dragging it when rearranging

A friend who has had Style Selections flooring for years shared this tip: “I keep a microfiber dust mop handy and do a quick sweep every evening. It takes less than five minutes but has kept our floors looking new by preventing dirt from being ground into the surface.”

Kitchen and Bathroom Installation: Special Considerations

Many homeowners wonder if Style Selections Tawny Oak is suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture exposure is inevitable. The answer is yes—with proper precautions.

For kitchen installations:

• Apply silicone caulk around the perimeter where the flooring meets cabinets, islands, and other fixed elements
• Install the flooring after appliances and cabinets are in place to prevent potential water damage during appliance leaks
• Place waterproof mats in front of the sink and dishwasher
• Consider installing a drip pan under refrigerators with water lines

For bathroom installations:

• Be especially vigilant about the expansion gap around toilets and vanities
• Consider sealing these gaps with silicone rather than covering them with quarter round
• Ensure bathroom fans are working properly to reduce humidity
• Wipe up water promptly around shower and tub areas
• Use bath mats with non-rubber backing to catch splashes

While these precautions help, it’s important to understand that for very moisture-prone areas like full bathrooms with showers or tubs, you might consider fully waterproof alternatives. However, for powder rooms or kitchens where spills are promptly addressed, Style Selections Tawny Oak can perform very well.

Comparing Style Selections Tawny Oak to Other Flooring Options

When evaluating Style Selections Tawny Oak against other flooring options, it’s helpful to consider how it stacks up in various categories:

vs. Other Laminate Brands

Compared to other laminate brands like Pergo, TrafficMaster, or Armstrong, Style Selections typically offers similar quality at a competitive price point. While some premium brands may offer thicker wear layers or enhanced water resistance, Style Selections delivers excellent value for the price.

The distinctive Tawny Oak color is particularly versatile compared to many other laminate options, working well with various décor styles from traditional to contemporary.

vs. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

LVP has become a popular alternative to laminate, primarily due to its superior waterproof properties. While Style Selections Tawny Oak is more water-resistant than hardwood, fully waterproof LVP remains the better choice for areas with significant moisture concerns.

However, many homeowners feel that high-quality laminate like Style Selections offers a more realistic wood look than vinyl, particularly in terms of texture and dimension. Laminate also tends to feel warmer underfoot than vinyl.

vs. Engineered and Solid Hardwood

The most significant advantage Style Selections has over real hardwood is cost—typically coming in at 1/3 to 1/4 the price of solid hardwood. It’s also more resistant to scratches, dents, and fading than many hardwood options.

Hardwood does offer the advantage of being refinishable, potentially extending its lifespan beyond what laminate can offer. However, the initial investment is substantially higher, and maintenance requirements are more demanding.

vs. Tile and Stone

While ceramic or porcelain tile offers superior water resistance and durability compared to any wood or wood-look product, many homeowners find tile to be colder and harder underfoot. Style Selections Tawny Oak provides a warmer, more comfortable surface while still offering good durability.

The installation of laminate is also typically faster and less expensive than tile installation, which requires specialized tools and skills for proper execution.

Scratch Resistance: Living with Style Selections Tawny Oak

For households with children, pets, or high activity levels, scratch resistance is a key consideration. Style Selections Tawny Oak features a wear layer designed to resist everyday scratches from shoes, furniture movement, and general activity.

The textured surface of Tawny Oak works in its favor here—the embossed wood grain pattern helps camouflage minor scratches that might be more visible on a perfectly smooth surface. Additionally, the varied tones in the oak pattern help disguise small imperfections that might develop over time.

That said, no laminate floor is completely scratch-proof. Dragging heavy furniture, pet claws, or dropping sharp objects can potentially cause damage. Using furniture pads, keeping pet nails trimmed, and lifting rather than dragging heavy items will help maintain your floor’s appearance.

It’s worth noting that if a plank does become significantly damaged, individual planks can be replaced without tearing up the entire floor—a process that, while somewhat involved, is easier than refinishing hardwood and less costly than replacing large sections of flooring.

Real-World Reviews: What Homeowners Say About Style Selections Tawny Oak

In my research and conversations with homeowners who have installed Style Selections Tawny Oak, several consistent themes emerged:

Positive feedback frequently mentions:

• The realistic appearance that guests often mistake for real hardwood
• Excellent value for the price point
• Durability in family homes with children and pets
• Relative ease of installation for DIY enthusiasts
• Versatility in coordinating with various décor styles
• Resistance to fading, even in sunny rooms

Common criticisms include:

• Occasional reports of planks chipping at the edges during installation
• Some find the click-lock system challenging on first attempt
• Limited water resistance compared to fully waterproof options
• Some mention a hollow sound when walked on without proper underlayment

Lisa, a homeowner who installed Style Selections Tawny Oak throughout her main floor three years ago, shared: “I’ve been amazed at how well it’s held up with two large dogs and three kids. We’ve dropped things, spilled things, and generally lived hard on these floors, and they still look fantastic. The warm tone has also proven incredibly versatile as I’ve changed our décor several times.”

Underlayment Requirements for Style Selections Tawny Oak

Proper underlayment is crucial for the performance and longevity of your Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring. The underlayment serves multiple functions:

1. Creates a moisture barrier between the subfloor and your laminate
2. Helps smooth minor imperfections in the subfloor
3. Provides cushioning for a more comfortable feel underfoot
4. Reduces noise transfer, including footsteps and impact sounds
5. Adds insulating properties to help maintain room temperature

Style Selections Tawny Oak requires an underlayment unless you’re installing over an existing floor that already has an underlayment incorporated. For most applications, a 2mm foam underlayment with integrated moisture barrier is recommended.

When selecting an underlayment, consider these factors:

• For concrete subfloors, ensure the underlayment includes a vapor barrier
• For installations over wood subfloors in upper-level rooms, consider an underlayment with enhanced sound-dampening properties
• For installations over radiant heating systems, choose an underlayment specifically rated for that application

While some budget-conscious DIYers might be tempted to skip or minimize underlayment to save money, this is generally a poor decision. The relatively small additional cost of quality underlayment pays dividends in improved comfort, sound reduction, and moisture protection.

Installation Over Concrete: Special Considerations

Style Selections Tawny Oak can be successfully installed over concrete subfloors, but this application requires special attention to moisture concerns. Concrete, even when it appears dry, can transmit moisture from the ground below, potentially causing problems with laminate flooring.

Before installation over concrete:

1. Test the concrete slab for moisture using either a calcium chloride test or a relative humidity test. The results will determine if additional moisture mitigation is necessary.
2. Ensure the concrete is clean, dry, and level. Repair any cracks or uneven areas with appropriate patching compounds.
3. Use a high-quality underlayment with a moisture barrier that has a minimum 6-mil polyethylene layer.
4. For below-grade installations (basements), consider additional moisture protection systems or consult with a flooring professional about the suitability of laminate for your specific conditions.
5. Allow the flooring to acclimate in the room for at least 48 hours before installation, which is particularly important with concrete subfloors that can affect temperature and humidity.

When installed with proper moisture protection, Style Selections Tawny Oak can perform well over concrete, creating a warmer, more comfortable surface than the concrete itself while maintaining the durability needed for these spaces.

Pet-Friendly Flooring: Style Selections Tawny Oak and Your Furry Friends

For many homeowners, how flooring performs with pets is a critical consideration. Style Selections Tawny Oak offers several advantages for households with dogs, cats, or other pets:

• The wear layer provides good resistance to scratches from pet claws
• The surface is easy to clean after accidents or pet messes
• Unlike carpet, it doesn’t trap pet hair and dander
• The textured finish provides better traction for pets than some slippery flooring options

To maximize pet-friendliness:

• Keep pet nails trimmed regularly to minimize scratching
• Clean up accidents promptly to prevent moisture damage
• Place water bowls on waterproof mats to catch spills
• Consider area rugs in spots where pets frequently lie down for added comfort

Denise, who has three dogs and Style Selections flooring, shared this experience: “The texture of the Tawny Oak has been great for my older dog who was slipping on our previous floors. The small embossed grain gives just enough grip without being rough. And when my puppy had accidents during training, I could clean them up completely without worrying about lingering odors.”

Color Profile and Aesthetic Appeal of Style Selections Tawny Oak

The distinctive color profile of Style Selections Tawny Oak is one of its most appealing features. The flooring showcases a rich medium brown base with amber and honey undertones that create warmth and dimension.

Within the planks, you’ll notice subtle variations that mimic natural oak, including:

• Lighter caramel highlights that add brightness
• Deeper brown grain patterns that create authentic wood character
• Subtle reddish undertones that emerge in certain lighting
• Natural-looking knots and mineral streaks that enhance realism

This thoughtful color composition makes Tawny Oak remarkably versatile. It pairs beautifully with:

• Warm neutrals like beige, cream, and taupe
• Earth tones including olive green, terracotta, and golden yellow
• Rich jewel tones such as navy, emerald, and burgundy
• Contemporary grays and blacks for a modern contrast

The color stability of laminate is also worth noting—unlike some hardwoods that can change color significantly over time with exposure to light, Style Selections Tawny Oak maintains its intended color profile much longer, ensuring your design vision remains intact.

Matte vs. Glossy: The Finish of Style Selections Tawny Oak

Style Selections Tawny Oak features a low-gloss or satin finish that strikes an ideal balance between completely matte and high-gloss extremes. This carefully calibrated finish offers several benefits:

1. It provides enough reflection to enhance the depth and dimension of the wood grain without creating the mirror-like surface of high-gloss options.
2. The low-gloss finish helps hide minor scratches, dust, and footprints better than high-gloss alternatives, making it more forgiving in active households.
3. The subtle sheen creates a sophisticated, contemporary look that aligns with current design trends while remaining timeless enough to avoid quickly becoming dated.
4. The finish includes a slight texture that enhances both the realistic appearance and provides improved traction compared to slicker high-gloss finishes.

Many designers prefer this type of finish because it combines the practical benefits of matte surfaces with just enough light play to highlight the beauty of the wood-look pattern. It’s particularly effective in spaces with abundant natural light, where it creates subtle dimension without producing glare.

Conclusion: Is Style Selections Tawny Oak Right for Your Home?

After exploring all aspects of Style Selections Tawny Oak flooring, it’s clear that this product offers compelling benefits for many homeowners. Its combination of realistic appearance, durability, reasonable water resistance, and affordability makes it a strong contender in the flooring market.

Style Selections Tawny Oak is particularly well-suited for:

• Budget-conscious renovators who want the look of hardwood without the price tag
• Active households with children and pets that need scratch-resistant surfaces
• DIY enthusiasts comfortable with moderately challenging home improvement projects
• Homeowners seeking a versatile, neutral wood tone that coordinates with various décor styles

However, it may not be ideal for:

• Areas with significant, ongoing moisture exposure like full bathrooms or pool areas
• Homeowners seeking a truly waterproof flooring solution
• Those who want the ability to refinish their floors decades later
• Applications requiring extremely high durability, such as commercial spaces

As with any home improvement decision, consider your specific lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences when making your choice. Style Selections Tawny Oak represents an excellent middle ground for many homeowners—offering much of the beauty of hardwood with enhanced durability and a more accessible price point.

Whether you’re renovating a single room or transforming your entire home, this versatile flooring option deserves serious consideration for its balance of performance, appearance, and value.