So, you’re considering vinyl flooring, and Armstrong is a name that likely resonates. Known for its resilience, this flooring has been a popular choice for decades. This guide navigates the recent changes within the company, providing up-to-date information to help you choose the perfect Armstrong floor for your home and budget.
Navigating the Armstrong Brand Transition
Armstrong vinyl flooring has undergone some significant shifts recently. In 2022, the company restructured, and AHF Products now manufactures and sells Armstrong vinyl flooring, including luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). You might still find older Armstrong stock at retailers like Lowe’s or The Home Depot. For a deeper understanding of the changes and what they mean for consumers, see our article on What happened to Armstrong Flooring?.
Exploring Armstrong Vinyl Options
Choosing the right flooring can be overwhelming. Armstrong offers several vinyl types to suit various needs and styles:
Sheet Vinyl
This classic, budget-friendly option remains a popular choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Armstrong’s Diamond 10 Technology adds enhanced scratch resistance.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)
Offering the elegant appearance of ceramic or stone at a fraction of the cost, LVT provides durability and affordability, making it an attractive alternative to natural materials.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Mimicking the warm, inviting aesthetic of hardwood, LVP captures the rich textures and grains, making it a stylish and practical choice for high-traffic areas. To explore other flooring options for your vehicle, check out our guide on auto leather repair.
Assessing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any flooring material, Armstrong vinyl has its pros and cons:
Pros
- Durability: Engineered to withstand daily wear and tear, spills, and minor scratches.
- Water Resistance: Many options offer excellent water resistance, suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas.
- Affordability: Provides excellent value compared to hardwood or stone.
- Low Maintenance: Simple sweeping and occasional mopping are usually sufficient.
- Style Variety: A wide array of colors, patterns, and styles are available to complement any décor.
Cons
- Subfloor Preparation: Imperfections in the subfloor can telegraph through the vinyl, requiring a smooth, level surface.
- Resale Value: May not add as much resale value as hardwood flooring.
- Vulnerability to Sharp Objects: While durable, some vinyl types can be punctured or deeply scratched by sharp objects. For bathroom upgrades without major renovations, consider the average cost to install a ladder towel rack.
Selecting the Ideal Armstrong Vinyl
Choosing the right flooring involves considering several factors:
- Lifestyle: Active households with children or pets may benefit from more durable, scratch-resistant options.
- Budget: Armstrong offers flooring across various price points.
- Style: From rustic wood looks to modern designs, Armstrong provides a diverse range of styles.
- Installation: Click-lock systems are DIY-friendly, while glue-down installations likely require professional expertise.
Installation and Maintenance
Click-lock systems simplify DIY installation. For glue-down installations, professional installation is often recommended. Regular sweeping and damp mopping are usually sufficient for maintenance. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the finish.
Locating Armstrong Vinyl
AHF Products is the current manufacturer. Check their website, online retailers, and local flooring stores. Lowe’s and The Home Depot may still carry older Armstrong stock.
Cost Comparison
| Flooring Type | Estimated Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Armstrong Sheet Vinyl | $2 – $5 |
| Armstrong LVT | $3 – $7 |
| Armstrong LVP | $4 – $8 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on style, features, and retailer.
Further Inquiries
For detailed product information, consult the manufacturer’s specifications and talk with retailers. They can provide the most up-to-date details and personalized guidance.
What Happened to Armstrong Flooring?
Armstrong Flooring, a longstanding name in the flooring industry, faced financial challenges and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on May 9, 2022. Factors contributing to this included supply chain disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-existing debt.
AHF Products: Continuing the Legacy
On July 5, 2022, AHF Products acquired key Armstrong Flooring assets, including the brand name and three U.S. manufacturing facilities. This acquisition allowed the Armstrong brand to continue, albeit with some changes.
Navigating the Transition: Discontinued Lines
The transition involved discontinuation of numerous Armstrong product lines. If you’re seeking a discontinued product, check with local flooring retailers for remaining stock, or explore online marketplaces.
Gordon Brothers: Managing Remaining Assets
Gordon Brothers, specializing in asset management, handled the remaining assets of Armstrong Flooring, including inventory and real estate.
The Future of Armstrong Flooring
Under AHF Products, the Armstrong brand continues, focusing on domestic manufacturing and developing new flooring technologies. This acquisition represents a fresh start for the brand, preserving its legacy of quality and innovation.
What is the Most Reliable Vinyl Flooring?
When choosing vinyl flooring, reliability involves more than just water resistance. It encompasses durability, stability, ease of maintenance, and longevity.
Factors Affecting Reliability
The wear layer, the protective coating on top of the vinyl, plays a crucial role in durability. Thicker wear layers offer better scratch and scuff resistance. Construction type, such as WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) or SPC (Stone Plastic Composite), influences stability and comfort. WPC offers more cushioning and sound absorption, while SPC is denser and more rigid. Proper installation and maintenance are essential for maximizing the lifespan of any vinyl flooring.
Leading Vinyl Flooring Brands
Several reputable brands consistently receive positive feedback for their reliable vinyl offerings, including Lifeproof, Mannington (particularly their ADURA lines), Mohawk, and Armstrong (now under AHF Products). Coretec, known for its rigid core luxury vinyl, is another popular choice. Each brand’s offerings vary, so research and compare to determine the best fit for your needs.
| Brand | Wear Layer | Construction | Price Range | Reliability Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifeproof | Typically High | Varies (WPC, SPC) | Mid-High | Excellent for high traffic, waterproof, good scratch resistance |
| Mannington | Typically High | Varies (ADURA, often SPC) | Mid-High | Durable, good for active homes, known for quality |
| Mohawk | Varies | Varies (WPC, SPC) | Mid | Wide range of options for different needs and budgets |
| Armstrong/AHF | Varies | Varies (WPC, SPC) | Mid | Diverse choices, may require more research due to brand transition |
| Coretec (Shaw/USFloors) | Typically High | Primarily SPC | Mid-High | Known for advanced rigid core luxury vinyl |
Choosing reliable vinyl flooring requires careful consideration of your specific needs, budget, and lifestyle.
What is the New Name for Armstrong Flooring?
Armstrong Flooring retains its name under the ownership of AHF Products. While the name remains the same, the company underwent a significant restructuring, resulting in the discontinuation of many original product lines.
AHF Products: The New Steward
AHF Products acquired the Armstrong Flooring brand and manufacturing facilities, focusing on U.S.-based production and developing new flooring technologies. This marks a new chapter for the Armstrong brand, with potential for future innovation and growth.
Exploring Armstrong Vinyl Under AHF Products
AHF Products continues to offer the core types of Armstrong vinyl flooring: sheet vinyl, vinyl tile, and vinyl plank. These come in different quality levels and material compositions, including luxury vinyl (LVP and LVT) and vinyl composite tile (VCT). Each type offers advantages and disadvantages concerning water resistance, durability, cost-effectiveness, and style variety.
Finding Armstrong (or Similar) Flooring
Explore the AHF Products website, consult local flooring retailers, and browse online retailers to find Armstrong or similar flooring options.
The Future of Armstrong Flooring
With AHF Products at the helm, the Armstrong brand is poised for continued development and innovation. While some aspects have changed, the Armstrong name continues to represent quality and style in flooring.
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