FOR NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION OR HOME IMPROVEMENT

Hallmark Floors offers a line of vinyl wood plank flooring, specifically their Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), as a durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional hardwood. They focus on replicating the natural look and feel of real wood while providing the benefits of vinyl.

KEY FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY

Realistic Wood Visuals: Hallmark Floors uses high-definition printing and a process called "Embossed In Register" (EIR) to create realistic wood textures, sawn-cut visuals, and intricate color layers. This method aligns the texture with the printed grain, making it difficult to distinguish from real hardwood.

Waterproof and Durable: The vinyl plank flooring is designed to be 100% waterproof and highly durable, making it suitable for areas prone to spills, moisture, and heavy traffic. This is a significant advantage over many types of engineered and solid hardwood.

Core Construction: Hallmark's vinyl flooring often features a rigid core construction, sometimes referred to as "Stone Plastic Component" (SPC). This core is made of pure virgin vinyl and contains no wood fiber or mineral aggregate, which contributes to its stability and resistance to expansion or contraction.

Health and Certifications: Hallmark Floors prioritizes healthy indoor air quality. Many of their LVP products are FloorScore certified, indicating they meet strict standards for low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. They also incorporate antibacterial and fungal control coatings.

Ease of Installation: Many of their LVP collections use a "rigid click" or "EZ Loc" installation system, which allows for a faster and simpler installation process, often as a floating floor.

Sound Absorption: Some of their LVP collections, like the Courtier line, include attached acoustic padding (e.g., a 1.5mm IXPE pad) for added comfort underfoot and sound reduction.

WOOD FLOORING COLLECTIONS

Hallmark Floors has several vinyl plank collections, each with its own unique characteristics:

Courtier Collection: This is a waterproof LVP collection known for replicating naturally reclaimed and contemporary hardwood looks. It features a natural low-sheen finish and often utilizes the EZ Loc rigid click system for installation.

Voyager Collection: A newer collection that is notable for being PVC-free. It's a medical-grade LVT and is made from a polypropylene base, making it suitable for tough environments like healthcare facilities while still featuring a variety of wood patterns.

Times Square Collection: This collection is inspired by nature and features a range of designs, including both natural wood grains and modern concrete or stone looks. It's a versatile option for both residential and commercial spaces.

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Installation: Hallmark Floors provides detailed installation instructions for their products. It's crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure the warranty is valid. The subfloor must be flat, and the planks should be installed as one of the last steps in a construction project to avoid damage.

Maintenance: While durable, the vinyl plank flooring requires specific maintenance. Hallmark Floors recommends using their exclusive cleaning products to maintain the floor's finish and appearance.

Reviews: Customer reviews generally praise the appearance and durability of Hallmark's vinyl flooring, with many commenting on how realistic it looks and how well it holds up to everyday life, including pets and kids. However, some reviews mention that the floors can be sensitive to dents from dropped objects and that certain finishes may show footprints or require specific cleaning methods.

Wood plank flooring, with its timeless appeal and natural warmth, is a versatile choice that can enhance a variety of spaces. The decision of where to use it often comes down to considering factors such as aesthetics, durability, and practicality.

IDEAL AREAS FOR INSTALLATION

Wood plank flooring, with its timeless appeal and natural warmth, is a versatile choice that can enhance a variety of spaces. The decision of where to use it often comes down to considering factors such as aesthetics, durability, and practicality.

Living Rooms and Dining Rooms: These are classic choices for wood plank flooring. The natural beauty of wood adds a sense of elegance and warmth, making these spaces feel inviting and comfortable.

Bedrooms: Wood floors in bedrooms can create a serene and cozy atmosphere. They are also a good option for people with allergies, as they don't trap dust and allergens like carpets do.

Home Offices and Libraries: Wood flooring can give these rooms a sophisticated and professional look. The solid surface is also ideal for rolling office chairs.

Hallways and Foyers: These high-traffic areas can benefit from the durability of wood flooring. A well-maintained wood floor can withstand the daily wear and tear of foot traffic.

Kitchens: While some people hesitate to use wood in kitchens due to potential water damage, with proper sealing and maintenance, it can be a beautiful and functional choice. It's more comfortable to stand on than tile and adds a rustic or modern feel depending on the wood species and finish.

AREAS TO CONSIDER WITH CAUTION

Bathrooms: High humidity and frequent water exposure can cause wood to warp, buckle, or rot. While some engineered wood products are more resistant to moisture, it's generally best to avoid solid wood flooring in bathrooms.

Basements: Basements are often prone to moisture and humidity, which can be detrimental to wood flooring. A moisture barrier is essential, and engineered wood or a different flooring material may be a better option.

Laundry Rooms: Similar to bathrooms, laundry rooms have a high risk of water exposure from washing machines or sinks.

Areas with Extreme Temperature Fluctuations: Large, unprotected windows that allow direct sunlight to hit the floor can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to gaps or cracks over time.

IMPORTANT NOTES

WHEN CHOOSING WOOD PLANK FLOORING

Species: Different wood species have varying hardness ratings (Janka scale). For high-traffic areas, choose a harder wood like oak, maple, or hickory.

Finish: The finish protects the wood from scratches and spills. Polyurethane finishes are durable and low-maintenance, while oil-based finishes can give a more natural look but may require more upkeep.

Cut and Width: Wide planks can make a room feel more spacious, while narrower planks can create a more traditional or classic look.

Solid vs. Engineered Wood: Solid wood is a single piece of wood, which can be sanded and refinished multiple times. Engineered wood is made of multiple layers with a top veneer of real wood. It's more stable in areas with moisture or temperature changes and can be a good choice for basements or over concrete slabs.

Suggested Links