If you've been searching for the best luxury vinyl plank flooring, you already know the challenge: there are dozens of options, and most look great in the store but fall short in real life. You want flooring that holds up to spills, scratches, pets, kids, without sacrificing the beautiful, high-end look you're after.
At Carolina In Home Flooring, we bring the showroom directly to your home, and when it comes to waterproof vinyl plank flooring, one brand consistently rises to the top: COREtec
Here's why we recommend it, and why it might be exactly what your home needs.
What Is COREtec, and What Makes It Different?
COREtec was one of the first flooring brands to patent a fully waterproof rigid core structure, and that innovation still sets it apart from standard luxury vinyl plank (LVP) today. So, when homeowners ask us, "Is COREtec better than standard LVP?" the answer is yes, and here's why.
Standard LVP is water-resistant, meaning it can handle surface spills if wiped up quickly. COREtec goes further with a 100% waterproof core built from either WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) or SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) technology. That means:
No swelling, warping, or buckling from moisture
Safe installation in basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms
Peace of mind even in high-humidity climates like the Raleigh, NC area
As a Shaw brand, COREtec also benefits from massive investment in R&D, which shows up in the form of an integrated cork underlayment. That built-in layer makes the floors quieter underfoot, warmer in cooler months, and more comfortable than typical hard-surface options.
Built for Real Life: Kid-proof, Pet-proof, and Scratch Resistant
Shaw markets COREtec as "The Original 100% waterproof, kidproof, petproof floor" and that's not just a tagline. It's a reflection of how the product is engineered for the demands of modern households.
If you're searching for the best flooring for dogs, COREtec consistently tops the list. Its wear layer resists scratches from claws, its waterproof core handles the inevitable accidents, and its surface is easy to clean with basic household products. No refinishing. No special treatments. Just wipe and go.
Key performance benefits include:
Scratch-resistant vinyl floors that hold up to pets and heavy foot traffic
100% waterproof construction safe for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and beyond
Built-in cork underlayment for quieter, warmer, more comfortable floors
Durable wear layer that maintains its appearance for years
Why Waterproof Vinyl Plank Is a Smart Long-Term Investment
Moisture is one of the leading causes of flooring failure, especially in North Carolina homes where humidity levels can spike and rainy seasons bring added exposure to water. This makes waterproof options like COREtec a smart choice for Raleigh-area homes.
COREtec eliminates that risk entirely. Its waterproof core means you're not just protecting your floors, you’re also protecting your subfloor and your home's structure.
With proper installation and care, high-quality LVP like COREtec can last 15 to 25 years or more. When you factor in the low maintenance, the durability, and the design flexibility, it's one of the highest-value flooring investments you can make.
Pair that with professional installation by our local team, and you get both performance and peace of mind, backed by experts who know the product inside and out.
These features are the reason families in Raleigh and the surrounding area keep choosing COREtec when they're ready to upgrade. Our team can walk you through the differences in person during a free in-home estimate.
2026 Flooring Trends: What's Popular Right Now
One of the biggest advantages of waterproof vinyl plank flooring is the ability to achieve a high-end wood look without the maintenance headaches of real hardwood. And in 2026, the design trends are leaning into that advantage in a big way.
The most popular aesthetics right now include:
Wide plank luxury vinyl that creates an open, airy feel
Soft matte finishes that reduce glare and feel more natural underfoot
Realistic wood grain LVP textures that closely mimic the look and feel of hardwood
Warm neutrals and earthy tones that work across both modern and traditional interiors
COREtec leads these trends across its collections. Here are three top-selling styles in the Raleigh, NC area right now.
Best Value & Durability: VV017 COREtec Pro Classics — 01004 Monterey Oak
A timeless medium-tone wood look that works in virtually any room. Monterey Oak delivers warmth and versatility, making it a top pick for open-concept living spaces and main floor installations.
Premium Design & Style: VV810 COREtec Originals Premium — 05026 Blonde Oak
Light, airy, and on trend. Blonde Oak brings a Scandinavian-inspired feel to any room, reflecting natural light beautifully and making spaces feel larger and brighter.
Rustic Character: VV023 COREtec Originals Classics — 00508 Red River Hickory
Rich, warm, and full of character. Red River Hickory is ideal for homeowners who love the rustic, natural look of real wood without any of the maintenance.
With a wide range of styles and proven performance, COREtec makes it easy to find a floor that fits both your space and your lifestyle. From design flexibility to long-term durability, it’s a solution built for today’s homes.
Browse these styles and more in our COREtec flooring catalog, and request samples to see them in your own home before committing. If you’re still exploring whether it’s the right fit, here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners.
FAQs About COREtec Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
What is the best luxury vinyl plank flooring?
COREtec is widely considered one of the best luxury vinyl plank flooring options because it combines a 100% waterproof core, scratch-resistant wear layer, and built-in cork underlayment for comfort and sound absorption.
Is waterproof vinyl plank flooring actually waterproof?
Yes, it is, and not all LVP is created equal. High-quality waterproof vinyl plank flooring like COREtec is 100% waterproof from top to bottom. It won't swell, warp, or buckle even with prolonged moisture exposure, making it safe for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Note: A flooded floorspace must still be tended to as liquids will most always find a way through just about anything over an extended period of time.
Is COREtec better than standard LVP?
COREtec offers advanced WPC and SPC core construction that goes beyond standard LVP in terms of waterproofing, durability, and comfort. The integrated cork underlayment also sets it apart by adding sound absorption and warmth that most LVP products don't include.
What is the best flooring for homes with dogs?
Scratch-resistant vinyl floors like COREtec are an excellent choice for pet owners. The durable wear layer resists claw marks and everyday wear, the waterproof core handles accidents without damage, and the surface is easy to clean. This makes it one of the most pet-friendly flooring options available.
How long does luxury vinyl plank flooring last?
With proper care and professional installation, high-quality LVP like COREtec can last 15 to 25 years or more. Regular sweeping, occasional damp mopping, and using furniture pads will help maintain its appearance and performance for the long haul. Learn more on our flooring care blog.
Ready to Upgrade Your Floors? Browse our COREtec flooring collection and schedule your free in-home estimate today. We'll bring samples directly to your home so you can see exactly how each style looks in your space before you buy.
