Project Source Flooring

Style Selections Slate Oak Gray Wood look 6-mil x 6-in W x 36-in L Waterproof and Water Resistant Interlocking Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring ( 22.17-sq ft Carton )

  • Style Selections Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is budget-friendly and resistant to scratches and wear—a good choice for bedrooms, living areas, bathrooms & more
  • Slate Oak is a plank with medium gray tones and a natural, textured finish
  • Angle/Angle locking system for DIY install or opt for Lowe’s professional installation for added convenience
  • Pre-attached 1 mm acoustic padding underlayment offers sound absorption and reduces installation time and cost

Style Selections Dove Tail Oak Gray Wood look 12-mil x 7-in W x 48-in L Waterproof and Water Resistant Interlocking Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring ( 23.21-sq ft Carton )

  • Style Selections waterproof luxury vinyl plank flooring is easy to install and ideal for everyday living at a great value
  • Dove Tail Oak is a plank that boast a mixture of gray and brown hues in a realistic wood-look finish
  • With Click-lock Angle/Drop interlocking planks you can go for a DIY install or opt for Lowe’s professional installation for added convenience

Style Selections Charleston Oak Gray Wood look 12-mil x 7-in W x 48-in L Waterproof and Water Resistant Interlocking Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring ( 23.21-sq ft Carton )

  • Style Selections Waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is budget-friendly and resistant to scratches and wear—a good choice for bedrooms, living areas, bathrooms & more
  • Charleston Oak is a plank in a gray oak-look with brown undertones and a textured woodgrain
  • With Click-lock Angle/Drop interlocking planks you can go for a DIY install or opt for Lowe’s professional installation for added convenience

STAINMASTER Northport Oak Gray Wood look 22-mil x 9-in W x 47-in L Waterproof and Water Resistant Interlocking Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring ( 18.78-sq ft Carton )

  • 9.43-in W x 47.8-in L x 6mm thick planks cover 18.78-sq ft; 22 mil wear layer for extreme durability
  • Wider format planks, a mix of light and medium grey tones, with authentic graining and texture provides a one-of-a-kind look to any living space
  • STAINMASTER® 100% waterproof luxury vinyl plank floors are extra wide, perfect for larger areas like kitchens, living rooms, and more

Transforming Your Space Without Breaking the Bank

When it comes to home renovation, few decisions have as much impact as your choice of flooring. It’s quite literally the foundation of your interior design—something you’ll walk on, look at, and live with every single day. In the vast sea of flooring options, Project Source flooring stands out as an exceptional balance of quality, affordability, and style that savvy homeowners shouldn’t overlook.

As someone who’s spent countless hours researching flooring options (and helping friends and family make these crucial decisions), I’ve developed a particular appreciation for brands that deliver real value. Project Source has consistently impressed me with its ability to offer attractive, durable flooring solutions that don’t require taking out a second mortgage. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about this increasingly popular flooring option.

What Exactly Is Project Source Flooring?

Project Source is a private label brand exclusive to Lowe’s home improvement stores. Created to provide budget-conscious homeowners with quality flooring options, Project Source offers a variety of flooring types that mimic the look of premium materials at a fraction of the cost.

The brand falls into what industry insiders call the “value tier” of flooring—not the ultra-cheap options that might fall apart after a year, but certainly not commanding the premium prices of high-end designer brands. Instead, Project Source occupies that sweet spot of reasonable durability and attractive design at prices that won’t make your wallet weep.

What many homeowners don’t realize is that Project Source products are often manufactured by the same companies that produce more expensive flooring lines. The difference? Simplified distribution channels, more focused style selections, and less elaborate packaging that all contribute to those lower price tags.

Where Can You Purchase Project Source Flooring?

As mentioned, Project Source is exclusively available at Lowe’s home improvement stores. This exclusivity arrangement is actually part of why the brand can maintain lower pricing—there’s no middleman markup or complex distribution network to finance.

You can browse Project Source flooring options at any Lowe’s location nationwide. Their flooring department typically has sample displays where you can see and feel the different options. For those who prefer shopping from the comfort of their couch (I’m definitely in this camp most days), Lowe’s website offers the full range of Project Source flooring with detailed specifications, customer reviews, and often, installation videos.

One advantage of this exclusive arrangement is consistency in pricing and availability. Unlike some flooring brands that might be priced differently across various retailers, Project Source maintains uniform pricing. Additionally, if you ever need replacement pieces years down the road, you’ll know exactly where to find them.

The Project Source Flooring Catalog: What Types Are Available?

Project Source offers several different types of flooring to suit various needs and preferences. Let’s break down the main categories:

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Project Source’s vinyl flooring options represent the brand’s most popular and versatile offerings. These products feature multiple layers that provide stability, cushioning, and realistic visual effects. The top wear layer protects against scratches and stains, while the printed design layer can mimic wood, stone, or ceramic with remarkable accuracy.

Project Source LVP comes in various wood-look finishes, from light oak to rich walnut. Their LVT options typically imitate stone or ceramic tile patterns. Many of these vinyl options feature click-lock installation systems that make them accessible for DIY enthusiasts.

Laminate Flooring

Project Source laminate flooring offers another affordable alternative to hardwood. Constructed with a high-density fiberboard core and topped with a photographic layer protected by a clear wear layer, these products provide convincing wood visuals with good durability.

The laminate offerings generally come in popular wood species looks like oak, maple, and hickory. They typically feature tongue-and-groove construction for floating floor installation.

Engineered Hardwood

For those seeking real wood at accessible prices, Project Source offers select engineered hardwood options. These consist of a real hardwood veneer bonded to multiple layers of high-quality plywood. This construction provides better stability and moisture resistance than solid hardwood.

The engineered hardwood line tends to focus on classic looks rather than exotic species, keeping costs reasonable while delivering the warmth and character of genuine wood.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

Project Source ceramic and porcelain tiles provide durable, moisture-resistant flooring options perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and other wet areas. Their catalog includes various sizes, from small mosaic styles to larger format tiles that can make spaces appear more expansive.

Design options range from subtle neutral tones to more dramatic patterns that can serve as statement pieces in your home.

Carpet

While less extensive than their hard surface offerings, Project Source does offer select carpet options. These typically include basic berber, loop, and cut-pile styles in neutral colors designed to complement a wide range of interior designs.

Materials: What Goes Into Project Source Flooring?

The materials used in Project Source flooring vary by type, but the brand generally prioritizes practical durability over luxury materials. Let’s examine what goes into each type:

Vinyl Flooring Materials

Project Source vinyl flooring typically consists of:

  • A clear wear layer (usually between 6-12 mil thickness)
  • A high-definition printed design layer
  • A rigid core or flexible vinyl layer for stability
  • Often an attached underlayment for sound absorption and comfort

The vinyl used is typically virgin (non-recycled) PVC, which provides better durability than recycled materials. Better lines within the brand may incorporate limestone composites in the core layer for additional stability and dent resistance.

Laminate Flooring Materials

Project Source laminate typically includes:

  • A transparent wear layer made of aluminum oxide or similar durable material
  • A detailed photographic layer
  • A high-density fiberboard (HDF) core
  • Sometimes a backing layer for moisture resistance

The HDF core used in Project Source laminate tends to be of standard density—durable enough for residential use but not as dense as premium brands that might offer commercial-grade products.

Engineered Hardwood Materials

Their engineered wood options generally feature:

  • A real hardwood veneer (typically 1-3mm thick)
  • Multiple layers of cross-laminated plywood
  • Sometimes a stabilizing back layer

The hardwood species used are typically common varieties like oak, maple, or hickory rather than exotic woods, helping keep costs reasonable.

Tile Materials

Project Source ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from:

  • Clay and minerals fired at high temperatures
  • Glazes for color and design
  • The porcelain options have higher feldspar content for increased density

Carpet Materials

Their carpet lines usually consist of:

  • Synthetic fibers (primarily polyester and nylon)
  • Backing materials for stability
  • Basic stain resistance treatments

The Bottom Line: Cost of Project Source Flooring

One of the most compelling aspects of Project Source flooring is its pricing. As a value-tier brand, Project Source consistently offers some of the most competitive prices in the flooring market without sacrificing fundamental quality.

Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect to pay per square foot (pricing as of my last update, and always subject to change):

  • Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile: $1.49 to $3.99 per square foot
  • Laminate Flooring: $1.29 to $2.79 per square foot
  • Engineered Hardwood: $2.99 to $5.99 per square foot
  • Ceramic/Porcelain Tile: $0.99 to $3.49 per square foot
  • Carpet: $0.89 to $2.49 per square foot

These prices typically don’t include underlayment, adhesives, or installation costs. For a more complete budgeting picture, you should account for:

  • Underlayment: $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot
  • Adhesives (if needed): $30-$50 per gallon (covering approximately 100-150 square feet)
  • Trim and transition pieces: $2-$15 per piece
  • Professional installation: $2-$7 per square foot depending on flooring type and complexity

Even with these additional costs, Project Source typically comes in 20-40% less expensive than comparable mid-tier brands and 50-70% less than premium offerings.

Durability: Will Project Source Flooring Last?

Durability is perhaps the most common question I hear about value-priced flooring options. After all, saving money upfront doesn’t help if you’re replacing your floors in just a few years.

The good news is that Project Source flooring is designed to meet the needs of typical residential use. While it may not offer the extreme durability of commercial-grade products, it provides reasonable longevity when properly installed and maintained.

Here’s a durability breakdown by flooring type:

Vinyl Flooring Durability

Project Source vinyl flooring typically offers:

  • Wear layers between 6-12 mils thick (the higher the number, the better the protection)
  • Water resistance or waterproofing in most lines
  • Good resistance to scratches and stains
  • Expected lifespan of 10-20 years in residential settings with normal use

The most durable options in their vinyl lineup feature thicker wear layers (12 mil) and rigid core construction, making them suitable for busy households with kids and pets.

Laminate Flooring Durability

Their laminate options typically provide:

  • AC3 rating (suitable for moderate residential traffic)
  • Some moisture resistance (though not waterproof)
  • Good resistance to surface scratches and fading
  • Expected lifespan of 10-15 years with proper care

Laminate is particularly susceptible to moisture damage, so Project Source laminate should be avoided in bathrooms or areas prone to spills unless you’re vigilant about cleanup.

Engineered Hardwood Durability

Project Source engineered hardwood generally offers:

  • Veneer thicknesses of 1-3mm (allowing for limited refinishing)
  • Better moisture stability than solid hardwood
  • Susceptibility to scratches comparable to other hardwoods
  • Expected lifespan of 15-25 years depending on care and wear layer thickness

Tile Durability

Their ceramic and porcelain tiles provide:

  • Excellent durability against scratches and stains
  • Water resistance or waterproofing
  • Good color stability and fade resistance
  • Expected lifespan of 20+ years

The porcelain options tend to be denser and more durable than the ceramic offerings.

Carpet Durability

Project Source carpet typically offers:

  • Basic stain resistance
  • Moderate resistance to crushing and matting
  • Expected lifespan of 5-10 years depending on traffic and maintenance

Style and Aesthetics: How Does Project Source Look?

While Project Source focuses on value, they’ve done an admirable job keeping up with design trends. Their catalog tends to emphasize timeless looks over extremely trendy styles—a smart approach that helps ensure your floors won’t look dated within a few years.

Vinyl Flooring Styles

Project Source vinyl comes in a range of wood and stone looks including:

  • Traditional oak, maple, and hickory patterns
  • Weathered and rustic wood effects
  • Basic stone and slate visuals
  • Neutral tile imitations

The wood-look options typically feature realistic grain patterns and embossed textures that align with the printed pattern. Color options favor versatile medium tones, though you’ll find some lighter and darker options.

Laminate Styles

Their laminate selection focuses primarily on wood looks including:

  • Classic oak and maple patterns
  • Some hand-scraped and distressed looks
  • Both wide and traditional plank widths
  • Predominantly medium-tone finishes

Engineered Hardwood Styles

Project Source engineered wood tends toward traditional styles:

  • Classic domestic species looks
  • Natural finish options
  • Both smooth and light texture options
  • Standard width planks

Tile Styles

Their tile offerings include:

  • Neutral stone looks
  • Basic ceramic patterns
  • Standard formats (12″×12″, 6″×6″, etc.)
  • Matte and gloss finish options

Carpet Styles

Project Source carpet comes in:

  • Basic berber patterns
  • Simple cut pile options
  • Primarily neutral colors
  • Medium pile heights

While you won’t find the most fashion-forward or unique designs in the Project Source lineup, the styles offered are versatile enough to work in most homes and tend to have staying power from a design perspective.

Installation: DIY-Friendly or Pro Territory?

One significant advantage of many Project Source flooring options is their DIY-friendly installation methods. This can substantially reduce your overall project cost if you’re comfortable handling the installation yourself.

Vinyl Flooring Installation

Most Project Source vinyl flooring features click-lock installation systems that allow for floating floor installation without adhesives. This makes it among the most DIY-friendly options available. Key points include:

  • No special tools required beyond basic measuring and cutting implements
  • No need for adhesives in most applications
  • Can be installed over most existing hard surface floors
  • Usually requires minimal subfloor preparation
  • Typically includes detailed installation instructions

Some Project Source vinyl may require adhesive installation, particularly for glue-down sheet vinyl options.

Laminate Flooring Installation

Similar to their vinyl, Project Source laminate typically features floating floor installation with tongue-and-groove or click-lock edges. Installation considerations include:

  • Requires an underlayment (sometimes attached to the product)
  • Needs expansion space around perimeters
  • Requires more careful subfloor preparation to prevent squeaking
  • Cutting requires a saw rather than just a utility knife

Engineered Hardwood Installation

Project Source engineered hardwood offers several installation methods:

  • Floating floor installation with click-lock systems
  • Glue-down installation for more permanent applications
  • Nail-down installation in some cases
  • Requires more precise cutting and fitting than vinyl or laminate

This flooring type falls in the moderate difficulty range for DIY installation.

Tile Installation

Project Source tile installation represents the most challenging DIY prospect:

  • Requires specialized tools (tile cutter, trowels, etc.)
  • Demands careful substrate preparation
  • Involves mixing and applying thinset mortar
  • Requires precise spacing and leveling
  • Needs grouting and sealing after tile placement

Most homeowners find professional installation worthwhile for tile projects, though determined DIYers can tackle it with proper research and preparation.

Carpet Installation

Project Source carpet typically requires professional installation due to the specialized tools needed for proper stretching and seaming.

Water Resistance: How Does Project Source Handle Moisture?

Water resistance varies significantly across the Project Source flooring lineup:

Vinyl Flooring Water Resistance

This is where Project Source vinyl truly shines:

  • Many options are 100% waterproof
  • Can withstand standing water for extended periods
  • Suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms
  • Resists swelling, warping, and water damage

It’s worth noting that while the flooring itself may be waterproof, water can still seep around the edges and underneath, potentially causing mold or subfloor damage in extreme cases.

Laminate Flooring Water Resistance

Project Source laminate offers limited water resistance:

  • Can handle small spills if promptly cleaned up
  • Not suitable for bathrooms or areas with frequent moisture
  • May swell or warp if exposed to standing water
  • Some options include enhanced moisture resistance in the core, but none are truly waterproof

Engineered Hardwood Water Resistance

Their engineered options provide moderate moisture tolerance:

  • Better resistance to humidity changes than solid hardwood
  • Can handle occasional light spills with prompt cleanup
  • Not recommended for bathrooms or very wet areas
  • May cup or warp with prolonged moisture exposure

Tile Water Resistance

Project Source tile provides excellent water resistance:

  • Both ceramic and porcelain options resist water absorption
  • Suitable for any room including showers with proper installation
  • Grout may be porous unless sealed
  • Requires proper installation to prevent water infiltration to subfloor

Carpet Water Resistance

Their carpet options offer minimal water resistance:

  • Can handle small spills if immediately cleaned
  • Will likely develop mold and mildew if allowed to remain wet
  • Not recommended for moisture-prone areas

Tools and Accessories: What You’ll Need for Installation

If you’re planning a DIY installation, being properly equipped will make the difference between a smooth project and a frustrating experience. Here’s what you’ll typically need for each flooring type:

Vinyl Flooring Installation Tools

Basic tools for click-lock vinyl installation include:

  • Tape measure and pencil
  • Straight edge and utility knife
  • Rubber mallet
  • Tapping block (often included or available as an accessory)
  • Pull bar for tight spaces
  • Spacers for expansion gaps

Laminate Flooring Installation Tools

Laminate installation generally requires:

  • Tape measure and pencil
  • Circular saw or laminate cutter
  • Rubber mallet
  • Tapping block
  • Pull bar
  • Spacers
  • Underlayment (if not pre-attached)

Engineered Hardwood Installation Tools

Depending on installation method, you may need:

  • Tape measure and pencil
  • Circular saw or miter saw
  • Rubber mallet
  • Tapping block and pull bar
  • Spacers
  • For nail-down: flooring nailer and compressor
  • For glue-down: adhesive, trowel, and adhesive remover for cleanup

Tile Installation Tools

The most extensive tool requirements come with tile:

  • Tape measure and pencil
  • Tile cutter or wet saw
  • Notched trowel
  • Tile spacers
  • Buckets for mixing
  • Grout float
  • Sponges and cleaning supplies
  • Knee pads (trust me on this one)
  • Tile leveling system (optional but helpful)

Additional Accessories

Regardless of flooring type, you’ll likely need:

  • Transition strips between different flooring materials
  • Quarter round or shoe molding for wall edges
  • Threshold transitions at doorways
  • Underlayment or vapor barrier (for some flooring types)

Many of these accessories are available in the Project Source line to match your flooring selection.

Warranty Coverage: What Protection Does Project Source Offer?

Project Source flooring typically comes with warranty coverage that reflects its price point—not the most extensive in the industry but sufficient for residential applications.

Most Project Source products include:

  • Residential wear warranties ranging from 10-25 years depending on product line
  • Limited structural warranties
  • Some products offer stain resistance warranties
  • Coverage for manufacturing defects

The specific terms vary by product line, but generally you can expect:

Vinyl Flooring Warranties

  • Wear layer warranties of 10-25 years
  • Limited lifetime structural warranties on some lines
  • Coverage against delamination and manufacturing defects

Laminate Flooring Warranties

  • Wear warranties typically 10-20 years
  • Limited structural warranties
  • Coverage against fading in some lines

Engineered Hardwood Warranties

  • Finish warranties of 15-25 years
  • Limited structural warranties
  • Coverage against delamination

Tile Warranties

  • Limited lifetime warranties against manufacturing defects
  • No specific wear warranties (as tile rarely “wears out”)

Carpet Warranties

  • Wear warranties of 5-15 years
  • Stain resistance warranties on some lines
  • Coverage against fraying and unraveling

It’s important to note that all Project Source warranties include standard limitations and exclusions. They typically don’t cover:

  • Damage from improper installation
  • Water damage (except for waterproof products)
  • Scratches, dents, or gouges from furniture or sharp objects
  • Improper maintenance
  • Normal wear and tear

Always read the specific warranty documentation for your chosen product and keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Project Source Flooring Looking Great

Proper maintenance is essential for maximizing the lifespan and appearance of any flooring. Fortunately, most Project Source flooring options are designed with easy maintenance in mind.

Vinyl Flooring Maintenance

Project Source vinyl is among the easiest flooring to maintain:

  • Regular sweeping or vacuuming with a hard floor attachment
  • Damp mopping with a mild cleaner designed for vinyl floors
  • No waxing or polishing required
  • Prompt cleanup of spills
  • Use of furniture pads to prevent scratches
  • Avoid harsh cleaners, steam mops, or abrasive tools

Laminate Flooring Maintenance

Their laminate requires similar care to vinyl, with extra caution regarding moisture:

  • Regular sweeping or vacuuming
  • Very lightly damp mopping (never wet)
  • Specialized laminate cleaners (avoid excess moisture)
  • Immediate attention to spills
  • No waxing or polishing
  • Furniture pads to prevent scratches and dents

Engineered Hardwood Maintenance

Project Source engineered wood needs slightly more careful treatment:

  • Regular sweeping or vacuuming
  • Cleaning with products specifically for hardwood
  • Very limited moisture during cleaning
  • Prompt attention to spills
  • Occasional polishing with appropriate wood products
  • Refinishing possible depending on wear layer thickness

Tile Maintenance

Their tile options offer straightforward care requirements:

  • Regular sweeping or vacuuming
  • Mopping with appropriate tile cleaners
  • Periodic grout cleaning and sealing
  • Prompt cleanup of acidic spills that could stain grout
  • Avoidance of harsh abrasives on glazed surfaces

Carpet Maintenance

Project Source carpet requires the most regular maintenance:

  • Frequent vacuuming (at least weekly in high-traffic areas)
  • Prompt attention to stains and spills
  • Periodic deep cleaning (every 12-18 months)
  • Professional cleaning for stubborn stains

Popular Designs: Best-Sellers in the Project Source Lineup

While Project Source offers a wide range of designs, certain styles have emerged as clear customer favorites. Based on sales data and customer reviews, here are some of the most popular options:

Vinyl Flooring Favorites

  • Oak-look planks in medium honey tones
  • Weathered gray wood-look planks
  • Simple slate-look tiles in neutral colors
  • Wide-plank rustic wood visuals

Laminate Flooring Best-Sellers

  • Traditional oak patterns in warm medium tones
  • Hand-scraped textures in neutral colors
  • Wide-plank designs with subtle variation

Engineered Hardwood Popular Choices

  • Classic oak and maple in medium finishes
  • Light natural finishes for contemporary spaces
  • Traditional width planks with subtle grain patterns

Tile Top Picks

  • 12″×12″ neutral stone looks
  • Simple white subway tile patterns
  • Basic porcelain options in versatile neutrals

Carpet Favorites

  • Neutral berber styles
  • Medium-pile options in versatile beige and gray tones
  • Basic textured patterns

These popular options tend to share some common characteristics: versatile colors that work with multiple design schemes, timeless patterns that won’t quickly look dated, and practical finishes that hide minor wear and soil.

Competitive Comparison: How Project Source Stacks Up

Understanding how Project Source compares to other brands can help put its value proposition in perspective. Here’s how it measures up against other common flooring brands:

Vs. Store Brands (Home Depot’s LifeProof, Menards’ Tarkett)

Project Source is positioned similarly to other home improvement store brands:

  • Comparable pricing (sometimes slightly lower than LifeProof)
  • Similar warranty coverage
  • Roughly equivalent durability ratings
  • Fewer cutting-edge design options than some competitors
  • Excellent accessibility through Lowe’s network

Vs. Mid-Tier Brands (Armstrong, Mohawk)

Compared to established mid-tier brands:

  • Typically 25-40% lower in price
  • Somewhat shorter warranty periods
  • Fewer premium features and technologies
  • Less extensive design selection
  • Good basic performance without the premium price tag

Vs. Premium Brands (Shaw, Mannington)

When compared to premium offerings:

  • Substantially lower pricing (often 50-70% less)
  • Less advanced technology and innovation
  • Fewer designer collections and unique visuals
  • More basic construction but acceptable durability
  • Significantly better value proposition for budget-conscious consumers

Vs. Budget Brands

Compared to ultra-budget options:

  • Slightly higher pricing
  • Noticeably better construction quality
  • More realistic visuals and textures
  • Better warranty coverage
  • Superior long-term value despite higher initial cost

Sustainability: The Environmental Impact of Project Source Flooring

As environmental concerns become increasingly important to consumers, it’s worth examining the sustainability aspects of Project Source flooring.

While Project Source doesn’t position itself primarily as an eco-friendly brand, some of its products do incorporate sustainability features:

Vinyl Flooring Sustainability

  • Some lines are FloorScore certified for low VOC emissions
  • Most products comply with indoor air quality standards
  • Typically uses virgin PVC rather than recycled content
  • Long lifespan reduces replacement frequency

Laminate Flooring Sustainability

  • Core materials often include some recycled wood content
  • Generally compliant with formaldehyde emission standards
  • Imitation of natural materials reduces demand for hardwoods
  • Moderate lifespan of 10-15 years

Engineered Hardwood Sustainability

  • More efficient use of hardwood than solid wood flooring
  • Some lines use legally harvested domestic species
  • No exotic endangered species in the lineup
  • Good longevity reduces replacement needs

Tile Sustainability

  • Ceramic and porcelain are made from abundant natural materials
  • Extremely long lifespan minimizes replacement
  • Energy-intensive manufacturing process
  • Some lines contain recycled content

Carpet Sustainability

  • Primarily uses synthetic fibers rather than natural materials
  • Some lines include partially recycled content
  • Shorter lifespan than hard surface options

Overall, Project Source offers moderate environmental performance—not leading the industry in sustainability innovation but also not among the worst offenders.

Underlayment Requirements: What Goes Underneath?

Proper underlayment is crucial for flooring performance, and requirements vary across the Project Source lineup:

Vinyl Flooring Underlayment

  • Many Project Source vinyl products come with pre-attached underlayment
  • For those without attached padding, a thin vinyl-specific underlayment is recommended
  • When installing over concrete, a moisture barrier is essential
  • Total thickness including underlayment typically ranges from 5-8mm

Laminate Flooring Underlayment

  • Requires underlayment for floating installations
  • Some products include attached padding
  • Foam underlayment with moisture barrier recommended for concrete subfloors
  • Specialized acoustical underlayment available for noise reduction

Engineered Hardwood Underlayment

  • Floating installations require underlayment
  • Glue-down installations may not need separate underlayment
  • Moisture barriers essential over concrete
  • Some premium underlayments offer enhanced sound control

Tile Underlayment

  • Requires proper substrate preparation rather than traditional underlayment
  • May need cement backer board over wood subfloors
  • Uncoupling membranes recommended for some installations to prevent cracking
  • Specialized waterproofing membranes needed for wet areas

Carpet Underlayment

  • Requires padding underneath
  • Project Source carpet typically specifies recommended padding density
  • Moisture barriers needed for below-grade installations

Thickness and Ratings: Technical Specifications

The technical specifications of flooring can significantly impact performance. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from Project Source products:

Vinyl Flooring Specifications

  • Total thickness: 4-8mm depending on product line
  • Wear layer thickness: 6-12 mil
  • Plank dimensions: Typically 6-7″ wide by 48″ long
  • Some rigid core products offer enhanced dent resistance
  • Residential rating with light commercial applications for some lines

Laminate Flooring Specifications

  • Total thickness: 7-12mm
  • AC rating: Typically AC3 (suitable for residential use)
  • Plank dimensions: Generally 5-7″ wide by 48″ long
  • Impact resistance varies by product line
  • All designed for residential applications

Engineered Hardwood Specifications

  • Total thickness: 3/8″ to 1/2″
  • Wear layer: 1-3mm hardwood veneer
  • Plank dimensions: Standard 3-5″ widths
  • Janka hardness varies by species (oak options typically 1200-1400)
  • Residential rating

Tile Specifications

  • Thickness: 8-10mm for floor tiles
  • PEI rating: 3-4 for floor tiles (suitable for residential use)
  • Sizes: Predominantly 12″×12″, 6″×6″, and subway formats
  • Ceramic options rated for residential use
  • Some porcelain options suitable for light commercial applications

Carpet Specifications

  • Face weight: 25-40 oz depending on product
  • Pile height: Low to medium
  • Fiber: Primarily polyester and nylon
  • Residential rating

Slip Resistance: Safety Considerations

Safety is an important consideration for any flooring purchase. Here’s how Project Source products perform in terms of slip resistance:

Vinyl Flooring Slip Resistance

  • Most options offer moderate slip resistance
  • Textured finishes provide better traction
  • Some lines include enhanced slip resistance technology
  • Performance can decline when wet

Laminate Flooring Slip Resistance

  • Generally less slip-resistant than textured vinyl
  • Smooth finishes can be slippery when wet
  • Not recommended for areas that get very wet

Engineered Hardwood Slip Resistance

  • Natural wood provides moderate traction
  • Hand-scraped or textured finishes offer better slip resistance
  • Can be slippery when wet
  • Typically treated with aluminum oxide for better traction

Tile Slip Resistance

  • Varies significantly by finish
  • Matte and textured finishes offer better slip resistance
  • Polished options can be slippery when wet
  • Some lines include enhanced traction for bathroom applications

Carpet Slip Resistance

  • Offers excellent slip resistance
  • Low pile options provide the best stability
  • Can present tripping hazards if not properly installed

The Verdict: What Customers Say About Project Source Flooring

Customer feedback provides valuable real-world insights into any product’s performance. Based on hundreds of reviews across multiple platforms, here’s what homeowners are saying about Project Source flooring:

Positive Feedback Themes

  • Exceptional value for the price is by far the most common praise
  • Easy DIY installation, particularly for the vinyl products
  • Attractive appearance that guests often mistake for more expensive flooring
  • Good durability for the price point
  • Excellent water resistance in the vinyl lines
  • Helpful customer service from Lowe’s for any issues

Critical Feedback Points

  • Some reports of clicking mechanisms being difficult to engage properly
  • Occasional complaints about limited color selection compared to premium brands
  • Some vinyl products showing wear in high-traffic areas sooner than expected
  • Laminate options sometimes reported as being susceptible to moisture damage
  • Limited specialized transition pieces for complex installations

Overall Customer Satisfaction

The overall consensus among customers is that Project Source delivers strong value for its price point. While it may not offer the absolute best performance or the most cutting-edge designs, it provides reliable quality at a price that makes beautiful floors accessible to more homeowners.

Particularly praised are the vinyl options, which many reviewers note have transformed their spaces at a fraction of the cost of traditional hardwood or tile.

Conclusion: Is Project Source Flooring Right for Your Home?

After this comprehensive examination, what’s the verdict on Project Source flooring? Like any product, it has its strengths and limitations, but overall it earns a solid recommendation for value-conscious homeowners.

Project Source excels at delivering good-looking, reasonably durable flooring at prices that make beautiful home renovations accessible to more people. While it won’t impress flooring connoisseurs who demand the absolute premium options, it serves the needs of typical homeowners admirably.

The vinyl products stand out as the clear stars of the lineup, offering exceptional water resistance, easy installation, and attractive designs at very competitive prices. For kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other challenging spaces, these products offer particularly compelling value.

The laminate and engineered hardwood options provide good alternatives for those who prefer these materials, while the tile and carpet selections round out a comprehensive catalog that can address most residential flooring needs.

For homeowners working with limited budgets or those looking to maximize their renovation dollars, Project Source deserves serious consideration. While you might find slightly better performance or more unique designs from premium brands, you’ll pay significantly more for those marginal improvements.

In the end, flooring is a highly personal choice that depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Project Source offers a solid middle path—not the cheapest option that you’ll regret in a year, and not the premium choice that strains your budget, but a sensible alternative that lets you create beautiful spaces without unnecessary expense.

And really, isn’t that what smart home renovation is all about?

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