Lifeproof flooring is one of the most popular brands of vinyl plank flooring on the market today. As someone who has worked in the home improvement industry for many years, I can confidently say that Lifeproof is a game-changer. Its unique blend of style and durability makes it a top choice among homeowners and professionals alike. But, who makes lifeproof flooring?
Explanation of Lifeproof Flooring
So what exactly is Lifeproof flooring? At its core, it’s a type of luxury vinyl plank (LVP) that’s designed to mimic the look and feel of real hardwood without any of the maintenance headaches. Unlike traditional hardwood, which requires frequent refinishing and can be easily damaged by moisture or scratches, Lifeproof is 100% waterproof and incredibly resistant to wear and tear.
But what sets Lifeproof apart from other LVP brands? For starters, its planks are wider than most other options out there, which gives it a more upscale look.
It also comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, from classic oak to modern concrete. Whether you’re going for a rustic farmhouse feel or an industrial loft vibe, there’s a Lifeproof option that will fit your aesthetic.
A brief history of the company
Lifeproof was created in 2014 by Halstead International, a company that has been producing high-quality flooring products since 1985. From the beginning, Lifeproof set out to create something truly unique: vinyl plank flooring that was not only beautiful but also incredibly durable.
After years of research and development, they finally hit on the perfect formula: a hybrid blend of vinyl with composite layers that make it stronger than traditional LVP. Since then, Lifeproof has become one of Home Depot’s top-selling flooring brands.
Its success can be attributed not only to its innovative design but also to its commitment to sustainability. All Lifeproof products are made with 100% recyclable materials, and the company has implemented a number of eco-friendly manufacturing practices to reduce its carbon footprint.
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Overview of the manufacturing process
So how exactly is Lifeproof flooring made? The process starts with a mixture of PVC resin, calcium carbonate, and other additives that are blended together to create a pliable vinyl material.
This material is then extruded onto a backing layer, which can be made from cork or foam for added comfort and sound insulation. Once the vinyl has been extruded, it’s embossed with a texture that mimics the look and feel of real wood grain.
This gives each plank a unique appearance that’s hard to replicate with other types of flooring. The planks are cut into their desired lengths and widths before being packaged and shipped out.
Overall, Lifeproof flooring is an impressive feat of engineering. Its combination of style, durability, and eco-friendliness makes it one of the best options out there for anyone looking for high-quality vinyl plank flooring.
Who Makes Lifeproof Flooring?
The Founders: Masterminds Behind Lifeproof Flooring
Lifeproof Flooring was founded in 2015 by Don Roberts and David Sheehan. These two masterminds had the vision to create a durable, waterproof, and stylish flooring option that would stand up to even the toughest wear and tear.
They knew that traditional hardwoods and carpets couldn’t withstand heavy foot traffic, water spills, or pet accidents. Thus, they set out on a mission to revolutionize the flooring industry with Lifeproof.
Roberts and Sheehan have over 50 years of combined experience in the flooring industry, so they knew what it would take to create a product that would meet consumers’ needs. They worked tirelessly on perfecting their formula for vinyl planks that could resist water damage, impact damage, and scratches.
Their dedication paid off when they launched their first line of Lifeproof vinyl plank flooring in Home Depot stores across the country. The founders’ commitment to producing quality materials has helped make Lifeproof one of the most popular brands in the market today.
The Designers: Innovative Patterns That Set Lifeproof Apart
Lifeproof’s design team is truly innovative. They take inspiration from all over the world to create patterns that are unique and eye-catching. From classic wood looks to modern marble designs, each plank is crafted with precision and care.
What sets Lifeproof apart from other flooring brands is its ability to mimic natural materials without sacrificing durability or ease of maintenance. The design team uses high-definition printing technology along with embossed textures to produce planks that look just like real wood or stone but are completely waterproof.
Beyond just mimicking natural materials, Lifeproof’s designers also introduce bold colors and graphic patterns for those who want a more daring look for their floors. No matter your style, Lifeproof has a design that will fit your needs.
The Engineers: Ensuring Durability and Ease of Installation
Lifeproof’s engineers are the unsung heroes of the product. They work behind the scenes to ensure that each plank is made to last. This team focuses on making sure that Lifeproof flooring is durable, waterproof, and easy to install.
To make sure each plank is durable, Lifeproof engineers test every aspect of their product. They conduct impact tests, water-resistance tests, and abrasion tests to make sure that each plank can stand up to heavy foot traffic and accidental spills.
Lifeproof’s engineers also focus on making installation as easy as possible for homeowners. They have designed planks with an interlocking system that makes it simple for anyone to install without needing professional help.
Additionally, they’ve created a range of accessories, such as transition strips and stair nosing for a finished look. Overall, Lifeproof’s engineers are crucial in making sure that the product is not only visually appealing but long-lasting and easy for DIY installation.
The Materials
Vinyl: The Backbone of Lifeproof Flooring
When it comes to vinyl flooring, Lifeproof is the absolute best. Unlike other vinyl flooring brands that feel cheap and flimsy, Lifeproof planks are thick and sturdy, with a wear layer that can withstand heavy foot traffic and even scratches from pets.
Plus, the high-quality vinyl used in Lifeproof flooring makes it completely waterproof and perfect for any room in your home. But it’s not just the durability that impresses me about Lifeproof’s vinyl flooring – it’s also the look and feel.
Each plank has a realistic wood-grain texture that makes it hard to tell whether you’re walking on real hardwood or not. And with so many different colors and patterns to choose from, there’s a Lifeproof floor for every style.
Cork: A Sustainable Solution for Comfortable Flooring
One of the things I love most about Lifeproof flooring is its commitment to sustainability. That’s why I was thrilled to learn that they use cork as an underlayment for added comfort and sound reduction.
Cork is a renewable resource that comes from the bark of cork oak trees. Not only does it provide a soft cushion underfoot, but cork also naturally resists mold, mildew, and pests, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want to keep their homes healthy and safe.
And let me tell you – the difference in comfort between a Lifeproof floor with cork underlayment versus one without is night and day. With cork underfoot, your joints will thank you every time you take a step.
Foam Backing: A Walking Experience You Won’t Forget
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about foam backing. This extra layer of cushioning makes walking on a Lifeproof floor feel like walking on a cloud. Seriously, it’s that comfortable.
But foam backing isn’t just about comfort – it also provides some added insulation and noise reduction for your home. And while Lifeproof flooring is already incredibly easy to install thanks to its locking system, the foam backing makes the process even smoother.
Overall, I can’t imagine anything but Lifeproof flooring in my home. The combination of high-quality vinyl, sustainable cork underlayment, and dreamy foam backing makes for a flooring experience that’s hard to beat.
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Manufacturing Process
Extrusion: Taking a Peek into the Process
One of the most crucial steps in the manufacturing process of Lifeproof flooring is extrusion. It is during this process that vinyl is melted down and formed into planks, resulting in highly durable and waterproof flooring. The beauty of Lifeproof’s flooring lies in its simplicity- the company uses a straightforward extrusion process that ensures each plank is consistent in size and quality.
The vinyl material used by Lifeproof contains many added benefits, including resistance to water, scratches, and stains. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Each plank manufactured using this process comprises four layers – a wear layer, a printed layer, a core layer, and an attached underlayment. This ensures that each plank is strong enough to withstand heavy foot traffic and last for many years.
Embossing: Adding Textured Patterns for Uniqueness
Embossing is yet another vital step in the manufacturing process of Lifeproof flooring. During this step, textured patterns are added to give each plank its unique look and feel. The embossing not only adds texture but mimics natural materials such as wood or stone to give the appearance of authenticity.
Lifeproof offers numerous patterns ranging from oakwood to slate tiles designed by their team of designers who are always on trend with what’s popular among homeowners today! With these unique designs comes added durability, ensuring that scratches or damages from shoes or pets’ claws are minimized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What company makes LifeProof?
LifeProof flooring is made by the company called Halstead International, which is known for its durable and waterproof flooring products.
Who manufactures LifeProof vinyl plank?
LifeProof flooring is typically made from a layered construction that includes a rigid core, a vinyl top layer, and a protective wear layer, offering durability and water resistance.
What is LifeProof flooring made from?
LifeProof vinyl plank flooring is manufactured by Halstead International, a company specializing in innovative flooring solutions.
Does Shaw make LifeProof flooring?
No, LifeProof flooring is not manufactured by Shaw. It is produced by Halstead International, which is a separate company.
Is LifeProof still a brand?
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, LifeProof is still a brand known for its resilient and waterproof flooring options.
What type of flooring is LifeProof?
LifeProof is primarily known for its vinyl plank flooring, which is designed to be durable, waterproof, and suitable for various residential and commercial applications.
Conclusion
It’s no secret why Lifeproof leads as one of the top manufacturers when it comes to waterproof vinyl planks. Their manufacturing process guarantees durability while still offering trendy design options that fit any homeowner’s style preference. Lifeproof’s commitment to quality is evident in the materials used and their straightforward extrusion and embossing process.
If you are looking to replace your floors, what better way to create a home that is unique, beautiful, and functional than by choosing Lifeproof waterproof vinyl plank flooring? Say goodbye to worries of scratches or spills with this durable option that will last for many years.
