The Top 3 Worst Vinyl Flooring Brands To Avoid (And Better Options To Consider)

Luxury vinyl planks have gained steam as an affordable and durable option for homeowners. In fact, vinyl flooring is HGTV's Mike Holmes' pick for a basement remodel. No matter how affordable a flooring product may be though, durability is just as (if not more) important, as no one wants to have to replace it after a couple of years. With many options to choose from, shoppers should do their homework before investing in vinyl plank flooring, as there are some notable downsides. It's important to note that even some relatively reputable brands have individual products that get lousy reviews. However, when you hit the stores, you will want to avoid three brands in particular — NeuType, ROSEROSA, and Armstrong, and instead, opt for brands like LifeProof, CoreElements, or COREtec. 

As far as what to avoid, reviewers say NeuType floors are susceptible to chipping and scratching — a fairly common complaint among many brands — but also may not be waterproof. Those same concerns plague Armstrong reviews, with consumers also saying they don't stand up well to temperature changes. Some NeuType users say the product images don't always match what is delivered and that the planks are not straight, making them hard, if not impossible, to install.

ROSEROSA floors are a peel-and-stick option that reviewers say arrive with planks that are already peeling and bubbled, while others say the adhesive is not strong enough to keep the planks in place. This can cause the floors to shift or lift up, becoming a safety hazard.

There are many brands, big and small, that are plagued by quality concerns. From scratches to dents to aesthetic concerns, there's a lot to pay attention to when choosing the floor that's ultimately right for your project. There are, however, some brands that experts say are a good bet.

LifeProof vinyl planks get good ratings for durability thanks to a thicker wear-layer that helps them handle daily use without scratching. They also perform well in waterproof tests. Core Elements, on the other hand, has a reputation for being DIY-friendly and aesthetically appealing. Meanwhile, COREtec, a prominent name in luxury vinyl, gets mixed reviews. Some say its durable and stable, while others say the quality has slipped, leading to complaints of hazy floors that are impossible to clean, and can come loose due to weak adhesive. So, it might be wise to check the reviews for the individual product you are interested in if it's made by COREtec. If your confidence in vinyl plank flooring is shaken, consider these other easy-to-install flooring options.