STAINMASTER Austen Oak 12-mil x 7-3/32-in W x 47-in L Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring ( 17.33-sq ft Carton )

  • STAINMASTER 100% waterproof Austen Oak luxury vinyl plank is an American White Oak-look floor with light tones and a matte finish that provides a welcoming look perfect for any room in the home. Our vinyl plank offers long lasting, rigid core flooring ready for your active household. Our ACTIVELIFE SHIELD™ provides the dent, abrasion, and scratch resistance that busy homes demand. It’s waterproof, stain-resistant, and easy to clean so everyday accidents are not a worry with this floor! Install with ease using its click-lock system technology, and reduce installation costs with its pre-attached, acoustic underlayment. And, finally, have peace of mind knowing STAINMASTER vinyl plank floors are backed by a lifetime residential limited warranty and 15-Year light commercial limited warranty. Long-lasting, stylish, and durable, STAINMASTER Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is perfect for your home. Exclusively at Lowe’s.
  • STAINMASTER 100% waterproof luxury vinyl plank flooring is wear-resistant and easy to install, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, entryways and more
  • This American White Oak-look floor features alternating grain patterns and a modern rustic emboss bringing a welcoming look to your space and ACTIVELIFE SHIELD™ provides scratch, dent, and abrasion resistance, and makes floors easy to clean
  • Lowe’s Project Source floor mouldings for STAINMASTER Austen Oak are Vinyl Multi-Transition, 5251616 – Qtr Rnd, 5251589 – Vinyl Stairnose, 5251642 – Waterproof Qtr Rnd, 3674489 – White Qtr Rnd, 1255399 – White Wallbase, 1255400
  • Pre-attached 1mm acoustic padding underlayment offers sound absorption and reduces installation time and cost
  • Antimicrobial product protection to resist odors and staining caused by certain bacteria
  • Durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean with a lifetime stain resistance limited warranty, exclusively at Lowe’s
  • Click-lock system technology allows an easy and safe installation
  • Lifetime Residential Limited Warranty; 15-Year Light Commercial Limited Warranty
  • 7.46-in W x 47.8-in L x 6mm thick planks cover 17.33-sq ft; 12 mil wear layer; 35.6 lbs carton weight

$3.29

A real homeowner’s honest experience and comprehensive buying guide for this popular flooring choice

When I first walked into the flooring showroom six months ago, I had no idea that Stainmaster Austen Oak would become the answer to my flooring nightmares. After three failed attempts with different flooring types over the past decade – including a disastrous encounter with traditional hardwood that warped in my kitchen and laminate that scratched within a year – I was skeptical about any flooring manufacturer’s promises. But sometimes, the universe conspires to put exactly what you need right in front of you.

My Quest for the Perfect Flooring Solution

Let me start with some context. I live in a bustling household with two teenagers, a golden retriever named Max who thinks the house is his personal racetrack, and a husband who somehow manages to spill coffee in every room except the one with tile. Our previous flooring choices had been disasters waiting to happen, and I was tired of constantly worrying about water damage, scratches, and the endless maintenance that came with traditional hardwood.

That’s when my neighbor mentioned Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring during a casual conversation over the fence. She’d had it installed eight months prior and couldn’t stop raving about how it had held up to her equally chaotic household. Intrigued, I began my research journey that would eventually lead to what I now consider one of the best home improvement decisions I’ve ever made.

Understanding What Stainmaster Austen Oak Actually Is

What is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? This was my first question, and the answer pleasantly surprised me. Stainmaster Austen Oak is a luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring that’s specifically designed to mimic the rich, warm appearance of authentic oak hardwood while providing all the practical benefits that real wood simply cannot offer.

The flooring is manufactured by Shaw Industries, a company that’s been in the flooring business for decades and has built a solid reputation for quality and innovation. What sets Stainmaster Austen Oak apart from other vinyl planks is its sophisticated layering system and the attention to detail in replicating the natural variations found in real oak wood.

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak a luxury vinyl plank or laminate flooring? It’s definitely a luxury vinyl plank, not laminate. This distinction is crucial because the construction and performance characteristics are significantly different. While laminate flooring has a wood-based core with a photographic layer on top, luxury vinyl plank like Stainmaster Austen Oak features a completely waterproof vinyl core with advanced imaging technology that creates incredibly realistic wood patterns.

The Shopping Experience: Where and How to Buy

Where can I purchase Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? My shopping journey took me to several different retailers, and I found that availability varied significantly. The primary places I encountered this flooring were at major home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, specialty flooring retailers, and through authorized Shaw dealers.

However, I learned that not every location carries the same selection or offers the same pricing. I highly recommend calling ahead to confirm availability and asking about their current promotions. During my search, I discovered that some retailers had exclusive colorways or bundle deals that others didn’t offer.

One thing that impressed me during the buying process was the level of expertise I encountered at Shaw-certified dealers. These sales representatives understood the product inside and out and could answer technical questions that general home improvement store staff sometimes couldn’t address comprehensively.

Key Features That Won Me Over

What are the key features of Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? After extensive research and hands-on examination, several features stood out as particularly impressive:

The visual authenticity is remarkable. When I first saw samples of Stainmaster Austen Oak, I had to touch them to confirm they weren’t real wood. The grain patterns, color variations, and even the subtle texture create an incredibly convincing oak appearance that rivals much more expensive hardwood options.

The construction quality exceeded my expectations. Each plank features multiple layers, including a protective wear layer that’s specifically designed to resist scratches, stains, and daily wear. The core layer provides dimensional stability, meaning the planks won’t expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes like real wood does.

The clicking installation system was another major selling point. As someone who’s tackled several DIY projects over the years, I appreciated that the planks are designed to lock together without adhesives or nails, making installation more straightforward than traditional flooring options.

Water Resistance: A Game-Changer for My Household

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring waterproof or water-resistant? This question was absolutely critical for my decision-making process, given our household’s track record with spills and moisture issues.

The answer is that Stainmaster Austen Oak is completely waterproof, not just water-resistant. This means that water sitting on the surface won’t penetrate the planks and cause damage, warping, or swelling. For families like mine, this feature alone justifies the investment.

I tested this claim myself during the decision-making process by asking the sales representative to pour water on a sample plank and leave it sitting for several minutes. The water beaded up on the surface and wiped away completely without any visible impact on the flooring. This demonstration sealed the deal for me.

The waterproof nature of this flooring means it’s suitable for any room in the house, including traditionally challenging areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements where moisture is a constant concern.

Cost Considerations: Investment vs. Value

How much does Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring cost per square foot? Pricing was obviously a significant factor in my decision-making process, and I found that costs varied depending on where I shopped and whether any promotions were available.

During my research period, I encountered prices ranging from approximately $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot for the materials alone. This positioned Stainmaster Austen Oak in the mid-to-upper range of luxury vinyl plank options, but significantly less expensive than comparable hardwood flooring.

When calculating the total investment, I also factored in installation costs, which varied widely depending on whether I chose professional installation or tackled the project myself. Professional installation typically added $2 to $4 per square foot to the total cost, depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates.

However, when I compared the long-term value proposition against other flooring options, Stainmaster Austen Oak emerged as an excellent investment. The durability, low maintenance requirements, and warranty coverage meant that my cost per year of use would likely be lower than cheaper alternatives that might need replacement sooner.

Aesthetic Appeal: Color and Finish Options

What color and finish does Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring offer? The aesthetic options available in the Stainmaster Austen Oak line impressed me with their variety and sophistication.

The color palette ranges from lighter, more contemporary oak tones to deeper, richer browns that evoke traditional hardwood flooring. I was particularly drawn to the medium-toned options that offered enough warmth to feel cozy but weren’t so dark that they would show dust and pet hair constantly.

The finish quality deserves special mention. Stainmaster Austen Oak features what Shaw calls a “low-gloss” finish that strikes the perfect balance between durability and natural appearance. It’s not so shiny that it looks artificial, but it has enough protective coating to resist daily wear and make cleaning effortless.

Does Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring look like real oak wood? This was perhaps my biggest concern initially, having seen vinyl flooring in the past that looked obviously artificial. I’m happy to report that the realism achieved by Stainmaster Austen Oak is exceptional.

The planks feature natural-looking grain patterns, knots, and color variations that mirror what you’d find in genuine oak hardwood. The embossed texture adds another layer of authenticity, creating subtle ridges and valleys that feel natural underfoot and enhance the visual illusion.

Even my mother-in-law, who has had real hardwood floors for thirty years and considers herself an expert, was convinced that our new flooring was genuine wood until I told her otherwise.

Durability and Performance in Real-World Conditions

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring scratch-resistant? Given Max’s enthusiastic approach to indoor sprinting and my family’s general lack of caution with furniture moving, scratch resistance was a top priority for me.

The performance in this area has exceeded my expectations. After six months of normal family life, including several instances of dropped kitchen knives, dragged furniture, and countless dog nail encounters, I can count the visible scratches on one hand – and those are only noticeable when I’m specifically looking for them in certain lighting conditions.

The wear layer on Stainmaster Austen Oak is substantial enough to protect against most daily abuse while still maintaining the realistic appearance that makes it so appealing. Shaw rates this flooring for heavy commercial use, which gives me confidence that it will handle whatever my household can dish out.

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring durable for high-traffic areas? Based on my experience and research, the answer is absolutely yes. The hallway connecting our living room to the kitchen sees constant foot traffic, and after months of use, it looks virtually identical to the day it was installed.

The dimensional stability of the vinyl core means that even in areas where temperature and humidity fluctuate, the planks remain flat and properly aligned. I haven’t experienced any of the gaps or buckling that plagued my previous laminate flooring.

Customer Reviews: What Others Are Really Saying

What are customer reviews saying about Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? During my research phase, I spent considerable time reading customer feedback on various platforms, and the consensus was overwhelmingly positive.

Common praise points included the realistic appearance, easy installation process, and excellent durability. Many customers specifically mentioned how well the flooring held up to pets, children, and heavy foot traffic. Several reviews from families with multiple dogs echoed my own positive experience with scratch resistance.

The few negative reviews I encountered typically related to installation challenges that seemed to stem from improper subfloor preparation rather than issues with the flooring itself. A handful of customers mentioned color variations between batches, which reinforced the importance of ordering all materials at once rather than piecemeal.

Overall, the customer satisfaction ratings for Stainmaster Austen Oak consistently ranked in the upper range compared to other luxury vinyl plank options in the same price category.

Room-Specific Applications: Kitchen and Bathroom Performance

Can Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring be installed in kitchens or bathrooms? This question was crucial for my home renovation plans, as I wanted consistent flooring throughout the main living areas.

The waterproof construction makes Stainmaster Austen Oak an excellent choice for both kitchens and bathrooms. In my kitchen, where spills are daily occurrences and humidity from cooking creates challenging conditions, the flooring has performed flawlessly.

I was initially concerned about how the flooring would handle steam and moisture from hot cooking, but after months of normal kitchen use, including some admittedly dramatic cooking sessions, I haven’t noticed any negative effects. The surface cleans easily with standard floor cleaners, and water wipes up without leaving any residue or causing damage.

For bathroom applications, the waterproof nature eliminates concerns about shower steam or occasional water overflow from kids’ bath time. The textured surface provides adequate slip resistance when dry, though I still use bath mats for safety when the floor is wet.

Installation Process: DIY vs. Professional

What is the installation process for Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? Having tackled various home improvement projects over the years, I was curious about the complexity of installing this flooring myself.

The click-lock system used in Stainmaster Austen Oak is designed for relatively straightforward installation. Each plank has engineered edges that lock together securely without requiring adhesives or special tools beyond standard cutting equipment.

The process involves careful subfloor preparation, proper acclimation of the flooring materials, and systematic installation following manufacturer guidelines. Most planks can be cut with a utility knife and straightedge, though a saw is helpful for more complex cuts around obstacles.

Does Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring require professional installation? While professional installation isn’t strictly required, I ultimately chose to hire certified installers after weighing the time investment and potential for costly mistakes.

My decision was influenced by several factors: the size of my project covered nearly 1,200 square feet, I wanted warranty coverage that might be affected by installation errors, and the relatively small cost difference between DIY and professional installation when I factored in tool rental and my time value.

The professional installation team completed my project in two days, including moving furniture and handling the complex cuts around kitchen cabinets and bathroom fixtures. Their efficiency and expertise resulted in a perfect installation that I’m confident I couldn’t have achieved on my own.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping It Beautiful

How do I clean and maintain Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring? One of the primary reasons I chose luxury vinyl plank was the promise of low-maintenance care, and Stainmaster Austen Oak has delivered on this expectation beautifully.

Daily maintenance consists of simple sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris that could potentially cause scratches over time. For wet cleaning, I use a damp mop with a mild floor cleaner specifically designed for luxury vinyl flooring.

The protective wear layer resists most stains, so spills typically wipe up easily without special treatment. I’ve dealt with everything from red wine to pet accidents, and in every case, prompt cleanup with standard cleaning products has returned the floor to its original appearance.

Monthly deep cleaning involves a more thorough mopping with slightly more cleaning solution, but even this process is significantly easier than the maintenance requirements of traditional hardwood floors. There’s no need for special oils, waxes, or refinishing treatments that make wood floors so labor-intensive.

Pet-Friendly Performance: Life with Max

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring ideal for homes with pets? As a dog owner, this consideration was absolutely critical in my flooring selection process.

Max weighs 75 pounds and has the energy level of a puppy despite being four years old. His daily routine includes racing from room to room, sliding around corners, and the occasional indoor wrestling match with visiting dogs. Additionally, like most golden retrievers, he sheds constantly and tracks in dirt from outdoor adventures.

After months of this abuse, Stainmaster Austen Oak shows minimal wear. The scratch resistance has proven excellent against dog nails, and the waterproof construction has handled the occasional water bowl overflow and a few unfortunate stomach upset incidents without any permanent damage.

The textured surface provides good traction for Max, reducing the sliding that was problematic with our previous smooth laminate flooring. Cleaning up pet hair is easy with regular vacuuming, and the low-gloss finish doesn’t show paw prints as readily as high-gloss surfaces would.

Technical Specifications: Thickness and Construction

What is the thickness of Stainmaster Austen Oak planks? The planks measure approximately 6mm in total thickness, which positions them in the standard range for quality luxury vinyl plank flooring.

This thickness provides adequate durability and comfort underfoot while still allowing for installation over most existing flooring types without creating transition issues. The construction includes multiple layers: a protective wear layer, the printed design layer, a rigid core layer, and an acoustic backing layer.

The layered construction contributes to both the performance and comfort characteristics of the flooring. The acoustic backing helps reduce sound transmission, which was particularly important in my two-story home where upstairs foot traffic was previously quite audible in the rooms below.

Warranty Coverage: Peace of Mind

Does Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring come with a warranty? Shaw Industries backs Stainmaster Austen Oak with a comprehensive warranty that provided significant peace of mind during my decision-making process.

The warranty covers manufacturing defects, wear-through of the protective layer, and staining under normal residential use conditions. The specific terms vary depending on the retailer and installation method, but typical coverage ranges from 15 to 25 years for residential applications.

Professional installation is often required to maintain full warranty coverage, which was another factor in my decision to hire certified installers rather than attempting a DIY installation. The warranty registration process was straightforward, and having this protection makes the investment feel much more secure.

Comparative Analysis: How It Stacks Up

How does Stainmaster Austen Oak compare to other oak-style flooring options? During my research phase, I compared Stainmaster Austen Oak against genuine hardwood, engineered wood, and other luxury vinyl plank brands.

Compared to real oak hardwood, the Stainmaster product offers superior water resistance, easier maintenance, and more consistent appearance at a lower cost. However, hardwood provides greater longevity potential and may offer better resale value in some markets.

Against other luxury vinyl plank brands, Stainmaster Austen Oak holds its own in terms of visual realism and durability while offering competitive pricing. The Shaw brand reputation and warranty coverage give it an edge over some lesser-known manufacturers.

The comparison against engineered wood flooring was particularly interesting. While engineered wood offers some authenticity benefits, the waterproof nature and scratch resistance of Stainmaster Austen Oak make it more practical for families with active lifestyles.

Environmental Considerations

Is Stainmaster Austen Oak flooring eco-friendly or made from sustainable materials? As environmentally conscious consumers, my family wanted to understand the sustainability aspects of our flooring choice.

Shaw Industries has made commitments to environmental responsibility, including recycling programs and sustainable manufacturing practices. Stainmaster Austen Oak contains recycled content and is manufactured in facilities that follow environmental standards.

While vinyl flooring isn’t as inherently sustainable as rapidly renewable options like bamboo, the durability and longevity of Stainmaster Austen Oak mean that it won’t need replacement as frequently as lower-quality alternatives, reducing long-term environmental impact.

The company also offers take-back programs for old flooring materials, which helps divert waste from landfills. These environmental considerations weren’t the primary reason for my choice, but they provided additional validation for the decision.

Final Thoughts: Six Months Later

Looking back on my buying guide for Stainmaster Austen Oak journey, I can confidently say that this flooring has exceeded my expectations in virtually every category that mattered to my family.

The combination of realistic appearance, practical durability, and reasonable cost has created a flooring solution that works beautifully for our active household. The waterproof construction has eliminated the anxiety I used to feel about spills and pet accidents, while the easy maintenance has freed up time for more enjoyable activities than floor care.

Stainmaster Austen Oak has proven to be one of those rare home improvement purchases that delivers on all its promises while requiring minimal compromise. The visual appeal satisfies my desire for beautiful interior design, while the practical performance handles the reality of daily family life.

For homeowners considering luxury vinyl plank flooring, particularly those with pets, children, or concerns about moisture, I can recommend Stainmaster Austen Oak based on both extensive research and real-world performance. It represents an excellent balance of form, function, and value that has transformed our living space while simplifying our home maintenance routine.

The investment has paid dividends not just in improved aesthetics, but in peace of mind and reduced maintenance stress. Sometimes the best home improvement decisions are the ones that make daily life easier while looking great in the process, and Stainmaster Austen Oak delivers exactly that combination.

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