Choosing engineered hardwood flooring can feel a bit overwhelming or even confusing. Some brands do make claims on durability and elegance but fail to deliver on quality, which then leaves homeowners stuck with floors that scratch, warp, or wear out too soon. It’s quite saddening when you pay a good amount of money expecting some good results but in reality, it leaves you disappointed.
Since there are so many options available, it’s easy to fall for clever marketing schemes and overlook their product’s flaws. By identifying which engineered hardwood flooring brands to avoid, you can save yourself from the frustration of dealing with costly mistakes.
By doing proper research, going through customer’s feedbacks on review platforms and forums, you can gather insight about brands and how their products actually perform.
With better understanding of what signs to look for in poor quality flooring, you can make informed decisions and get yourself a perfect flooring that enhances your home’s beauty for many years.
10 Engineered Hardwood Flooring Brands to Avoid
Choosing the right engineered hardwood flooring is important for durability and appearance of your house. Sadly, not all brands meet our expectations. In this list, we are going to discuss 10 engineered hardwood flooring brands that you should avoid.
Drawing from customer feedback and reviews, we’ll outline the most common complaints associated with each brand, such as durability issues, poor quality, or lackluster customer service.
By understanding these pitfalls, you can make more informed decisions and confidently choose flooring that suits your needs without regrettable surprises.
TrafficMaster (Home Depot’s Brand)
Traffic master from Home Depot, offers affordable hardwood flooring in comparison to traditional hardwood. They claim their flooring is durable, DIY friendly, and quite versatile. But after going through its feedback, customers’ most common complaint, there were complaints about its durability and quality. There were also some reviews where people appreciated its appearance and ease of installation.
They mentioned that the thin veneers of TrafficMaster’s hardwood flooring get dents, scratches, and warping easily, just after a few months of installation.
It doesn’t do very well in humid and high moisture conditions. Some users reported it tends to bend and break easily, particularly in high traffic areas. Trafficmaster is an appealing option for those who want variety and affordability. But the final call is yours, if your space doesn’t have high traffic, or if you don’t live in high humidity areas, then you can try this flooring.
Kronotex
Kronotex engineered hardwood is known for its laminate flooring products. They mainly focus on providing aesthetically appealing flooring, and also claim great deal of durability in their products.
Many customers had great experience with the appearance of their flooring. They also appreciated the feel of this hardwood, making it quite appealing for many buyers who prefer their foot comfort.
However, many customers were disappointed and raised concerns about its quality and durability. They mentioned how their floor started chipping and cracking, just after a year. Their flooring started looking like its years old because of the poor build quality.
On the Hardwood Flooring Talk forum, there were also complaints about the locking mechanism not working properly, making the installation process more complicated. Some homeowners mentioned the flooring starts looking faded because of scratches. It’s also quite vulnerable to dents and wear and tear which suggests that the hardwood flooring is not very durable.
While Kronotex hardwood flooring offers a budget friendly option, it lacks quality and durability. So if you are thinking of long term then it’s best to not invest in Kronotex hardwood flooring.
Bruce Hardfloor Flooring
Bruce hardfloor flooring is a well known company that offers great quality hardwood flooring. Their flooring comes in a variety of styles and finishes, to meet every customer’s needs and preferences. Many customers love this about Bruce hardwood flooring, they also appreciate its aesthetic appeal and wide range of options to choose from.
However, many customers complained about poor quality and they also mentioned how boards vary in widths, leading to improper installation.
On forums like Flooring Forum and DIY Chat Room, users also mentioned that their budget lines often have issues like peeling and poor resistance to scratches. They also said the finish on the flooring starts to fade with time, making the flooring appear old and worn out.
Other users mentioned the floorings tend to buckle and warp because of poor resistance to humidity, which then affects the wood.
But it’s also worth noting that product quality differs depending on the retailer. So if you are buying something, make sure to buy from the specialized flooring distributors. Just remember to do a thorough research on the product before purchasing.
BellaWood (Sold by LL Flooring)
BellaWood is a brand of hardwood flooring sold by LL Flooring. It was previously known as Lumber Liquidators. The company offers a variety of wood types and finishes, appealing to homeowners seeking durable and attractive flooring options.
However, some customers have reported issues with BellaWood products. There have been complaints about the flooring denting and scratching easily, leaving users disappointed and dissatisfied with its durability. They mentioned their flooring started chipping and peeling just after a few months of installation.
Customers on Flooring Report, raised concerns about poor milling quality, which then results in gaps and misalignment, making the installation process a challenge and hassle. Their company also faced lots of criticism about poor customer service and product quality. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) rated this company with an “F” because of unresolved complaints and not dealing with customers issues.
Sometimes, high end pricing doesn’t mean you will get high end quality and service for the product. It’s always good to do a thorough search before making a purchase about your home.
Mohawk (Budget Lines)
Mohawk, a trusted name in the flooring industry, known for its wide range of budget- friendly options, that also includes laminate and vinyl products. These budget lines were designed to provide the look of hardwood without having to break the bank for expensive engineered hardwood flooring.
There were some customers that appreciated the durability and appearance of the Mohawk’s budget flooring. They also mentioned the flooring does well in a busy household, making it a reliable option.
However, some of their lower priced options don’t meet the expectations, leaving customers disappointed. Customers on Reddits shared their experience with Mohawk budget lines, mentioned how the product doesn’t meet the expectations. They mentioned the flooring gets easily scratched and often creates problems during the installation process.
If you want better quality and durability, it’s best to spend a bit more extra on this brand, to get many reliable options.
Capella
Capella hardwood flooring is known for its rustic and natural appearance. Each plant features a unique design and variations such as filled knots, splits, large mineral streaks, and high color diversity. This design and style gives your floor a distinctive and authentic look.
Coming to its customer feedback, we found mixed reviews about Capella hardwood flooring. There were three customer reviews on the Flooring Report, and all three talked positively about Capella’s flooring quality, aesthetic appeal, and they also had great experience with their customer service.
But customers on Garden Web reported concerns about imperfections in the flooring board and quality control. They were quite disappointed with the inconsistencies in boards and also talked about how challenging it is to find suitable planks.
It is no doubt that Capella offers lots of varieties in rustic and natural wood flooring, it’s best to thoroughly inspect the product, to see if the product meets the expectations or not.
Robina Floors
Robina floors is a flooring company that manufactures laminated, SPC, and engineered wood products. Their flooring is designed to mimic the appearance of solid timber while providing various wood decors that offer both aesthetic appeal and comfort under your foot.
The company also emphasises on quality and durability, highlighting features like termite and water resistance, which makes this hardwood more appealing to people.
After doing some research, we found some reviews on Trust Burn that mentioned that the flooring was amazing and much better than their expectations. They also mentioned that the customer service was excellent too.
However, due to a limited number of reviews and feedback on Robina’s flooring, it’s difficult to assess the performance and durability of their products. Some of them mentioned that the hardwood flooring had low quality core materials, thin wear layers, inconsistent color variations, or lack of warranty information.
So be sure to consult with flooring professionals or look for additional reviews and feedback, to help you make informed decisions.
Lumber Liquidators (now LL Flooring)
Lumber Liquidators, now known as LL Flooring, provides a wide range of flooring options, including laminated flooring, hardwood, vinyl, and bamboo. Despite the claims that their hardwood flooring comes with great durability and quality, customers have different experiences.
In the reviews and feedback on ConsumerAffairs, the company has 4.8 star rating with over 4,300 reviews. Those reviews mostly talked positively about LL Flooring, they appreciated its quality and competitive pricing. But there were some reviews that raised concerns about the product’s quality and poor customer service. They also mentioned the use of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde in their chinese made laminate flooring products. This made many customers feel concerned and dissatisfied.
The Better Business Bureau also received lots of complaints about damaged products and discussed challenges they faced while obtaining satisfactory solutions. It’s quite easy to get tempted by affordable pricing but in turn to get poor quality, health concerns, and bad customer service, is not really worth it.
Nuvelle
Nuvelle, a well known brand when it comes to flooring products. It offers a wide range of flooring products, like, premium hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and tile flooring, perfect for both residential and commercial places. Their products are designed to be durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Coming to what customers have to say about Nuvelle flooring. We found mixed reviews about this company, some appreciated the design and durability of certain products like the Density Titan series and luxury vinyl.
However, other customers didn’t have much of a great experience. They complained that the flooring has thin layers which get easily dented and scratched, making it not suitable for busy places. There was a discussion on Garden Web that mentioned how bad their experience was with the Nuvelle Density plus luxury vinyl, and also advised others that it’s not worth the purchase.
Similarly, a reddit user referred to Nuvelle as a “mid-level floor” product and didn’t expect too much from it.
Home Depot’s In-House Brands (LifeProof)
LifeProof is an in-house flooring brand by Home Depot that specialises in luxury vinyl plank flooring. Their flooring is well known for its durability, water resistance, and ease of installation. Making LifeProof flooring a popular choice among homeowners.
Many customers on Reddit appreciated its durability and said their flooring is doing great after years of installation. Many users also appreciated its realistic appearance and ease of cleaning.
However, there are some users that complained about the locking system not working properly, but this can happen due to flooring not being prepared properly before installation.
There were other concerns related to its long term durability, even though the flooring is easy to clean, they doubted its long term performance.
For more detailed information about their performance, there’s also a youtube video named “Was LIFEPROOF Flooring a waste of Money?”, where the person discussed issues related to flooring like it easily gets scratched and dented. So if you have pets at home, consider talking with a flooring expert or do a deep research on different types of floorings, to see which one fits best.
Where to Buy the Best Engineered Hardwood Flooring in the U.S.
Now comes the next big step: where do you actually buy some amazing engineered hardwood brands? Here are your options:
Specialty Flooring Retailers
These are the go-to spots if you want expert advice and a more curated selection. The people here usually know their stuff and can walk you through things like wood types, finishes, and what works best for your space. They often stock unique or luxury brands you won’t find in big box stores. You get personal service, higher-end selections, and access to stylish brands like Allora or Stonewood.
Online Flooring Marketplaces
If you are the type who likes to shop from your couch (same), buying flooring online is an option. Many businesses offer a huge selection, detailed product info, and even virtual consultations or phone support. Always check return policies, shipping costs, and whether they send samples.
Many of the brands we have highlighted in this guide—like Hallmark, Garrison, and Bjelin—can be found through trusted online shops like Royal Floors Online, which offer premium selections with legit customer support.
Home Improvement Chains
These chains are easy to find, super convenient, and usually have a decent range of engineered hardwood, especially budget-friendly and mid-range options. Plus, you can sometimes bundle in installation if you need it. However, always read product reviews before buying, as quality can vary a lot from one SKU to the next.
Local Distributors or Contractors
If you are working with a contractor or interior designer, they may already have connections with wholesale distributors. That means you could get access to trade-only brands or better deals when flooring is bundled with installation.
Signs You Should Look Out for While Choosing Engineered Hardwood Flooring
While selecting engineered hardwood flooring for your home, it’s important to consider a few factors like durability, aesthetic appeal, and stability, to ensure it’s worth the money or not.
Here are the signs that you should look for:
Layer Thickness: When it comes to flooring, there’s a wear layer that’s about 3 millimeters thick. Thicker layer allows for refinishing, which also means your floor will have a great life span. So, the thicker the layer is, the greater the flooring’s durability is.
Core Construction: High quality engineered hardwood flooring always has multiple layers of plywood that contributes to its stability. Go for options that have a higher number of plywood, high density fiberboard (HDF), or medium density fiberboard (MDF).
Plank Dimensions: Consider the width and length of the planks. Wider and longer planks can create a more seamless and modern look, especially in larger spaces.
Moisture Resistance: Engineered hardwood offers better moisture resistance than solid hardwood, making it suitable for areas with slight humidity variations. However, it’s essential to assess the specific product’s moisture resistance, especially if installing in moisture-prone areas.
Best Engineered Hardwood Flooring Brands to Consider
When you are choosing engineered hardwood flooring brands, it’s important to know what your expectations are.
After you have a clear idea of what your expectations are, you can choose a brand that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and performance requirements.
Below is the list of best engineered hardwood flooring brands that you can consider:
Provenza
Provenza flooring brand is often known for its high quality Provenza is known for its handcrafted hardwood flooring, offering a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes. Their engineered hardwood floors are designed to combine durability with aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking both style and longevity.
The customer reviews for Provenza on Garden Web are mixed. Some homeowners praise its durability, and someone on Garden Web said that their Provenza engineered wood floors have lasted over 12 years while maintaining their appeal.
However, other people had less favorable experiences. Some reviewers on Garden Web mentioned quality concerns, such as defective planks, and dissatisfaction with the company’s warranty support. While many appreciate the brand’s design and craftsmanship, it’s important to consider potential inconsistencies in product quality and customer service.
Anderson Tuftex
Anderson Tuftex is another brand that’s known for its amazing hardwood flooring quality and cost effective flooring options. They specialize in premium hardwood flooring, mainly focusing on craftsmanship and the quality of their engineered hardwood flooring.
Their floorings offer a perfect blend of classic with modern touch, making them fit every interior design preference.
Coming to what people have to say about their brand. Many users have appreciated how amazing the overall quality is. Customers on Garden web emphasized on the importance of maintenance and installation to ensure it looks great for a long time.
But some customers also reported issues like scratches and denting, some even said the flooring started cracking. If you are considering this brand, just remember to weigh these points before making a final purchase. These kinds of problems are quite common with other hardwood floorings.
Newton
Newton brand focuses on providing high quality flooring options while also keeping it budget friendly. Their engineered hardwood flooring is designed to combine durability and style, making them a practical choice for homeowners who want affordability without compromising on style.
Their flooring materials are primarily US sourced oak, hickory, maple, and birch and that too at a competitive price.
The reviews of the Newton brand are quite positive. One user also talked about its great durability and appreciated its amazing appearance. They also rated the brand 8 out of 10, appreciating its high quality and stylish appearance.
However, there’s one thing that users noted that there’s a lack of online reviews so potential buyers are advised to do a thorough search before making the purchase.
Mirage
Mirage brand is known for its precision milling and high-quality hardwood flooring. Their engineered hardwood flooring is designed from top quality materials that results in exceptional stability and durability.
Aside from great durability and stability, they offer a wide range of styles and finishes to make sure they cater to various design preferences.
Mirage was ranked first 47 times for its amazing quality in industry surveys. Many customers praised the brand for its consistent manufacturing, stability, and long lasting appearance.
They also mentioned that Mirage floors maintain their beauty for long time, making them a trusted and premium flooring brand.
Shaw Floors (Premium Lines)
Shaw Floors is another brand that you might be familiar with. Their premium lines are designed to offer high quality and aesthetically appealing flooring options.
They focus on making their flooring stable and moisture resistant, making them a suitable choice for humid environments.
Coming to the customer feedback of Shaw floors’ premium lines. Many users have appreciated the floorings durability, moisture resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
On Home Depot’s website, customers mentioned, the flooring looks beautiful once it’s installed and withstands nicely against dents, scratches, and scuffs. However, there were some people that were dissatisfied with their purchase, they received damaged planks and the packaging wasn’t great too.
Other users on Reddit mentioned that despite having high variation from plank to plank, they aren’t scratch resistant or waterproof as luxury vinyl planks. This can happen because of some error from salesman’s side, so it’s best to buy from a reliable retailer.
CoreTec
CoreTec brand is known for their innovative flooring solutions offering waterproof, scratch resistant, stylish engineered hardwood flooring. Their flooring options perfectly combine the beauty of wood with enhanced durability.
They claim their hardwood flooring options are designed to be wear and tear resistant, making them an ideal option for busy households or commercial areas.
Their reviews are also quite positive. Many users were satisfied with their CoreTec flooring, one user on Reddit even described it as a high end product that’s worth the investment.
Another user mentioned the highlighted its waterproof properties and ease of installation, making it a great option for many homeowners.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right engineered hardwood flooring brand, the first thing you should do is deep research on every brand.
While some brands are known for great quality and visual appeal, customer reviews help in revealing their hidden flaws. After doing proper research, you can avoid making costly mistakes. This way you can also know which engineered hardwood flooring brand to avoid.
By going through reviews and feedback, you gain insight into how the product really performs in real life and where it needs improvement.
This way you can make a well informed decision that also ensures you are getting a product that’s worth investing.
If you are still unsure, you can try consulting with a professional, they will be able to guide you according to what your needs and expectations are. It’s always best to inspect the product before you make the purchase. A good flooring should enhance the look of your home while also making sure it also provides durability to it.
