Armstrong Flooring: Worth It? (1 Shocking Truth!)

I’m seeing a huge trend lately: everyone’s becoming more aware of the impact their choices have on the environment.

And that absolutely includes flooring!

We’re not just looking for something that looks good anymore.

We want sustainable materials, eco-friendly practices, and products that won’t harm our planet.

That’s where Armstrong Flooring comes in.

They’re a big name in the industry, known for offering a wide range of flooring that caters to both our aesthetic desires and our environmental concerns.

They talk a big game about sustainability, but is it all just greenwashing?

Are their products actually eco-friendly?

Do they hold up to the wear and tear of everyday life?

And most importantly… is Armstrong Flooring really worth your hard-earned money?

I’m going to dive deep into Armstrong Flooring, exploring their history, product range, customer reviews, and eco-friendly initiatives.

And trust me, I’ve got a “shocking truth” to reveal that might just change the way you look at this company.

Ready to get started? Let’s jump in!

Section 1: Overview of Armstrong Flooring

Okay, let’s start with the basics.

Armstrong Flooring has been around for over 150 years!

That’s a lot of flooring experience.

They started way back in 1860 as a cork-cutting shop and have grown into a global leader in the flooring industry.

Their founding principles were based on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

And they’ve definitely adapted over the years to meet changing consumer demands and technological advancements.

Today, Armstrong offers a huge selection of flooring products, including:

• Vinyl flooring (sheet, tile, and plank)
• Laminate flooring
• Hardwood flooring (solid and engineered)
• Tile flooring (ceramic, porcelain, and luxury vinyl tile)

What sets Armstrong apart from the competition?

Well, they’ve consistently invested in research and development, leading to some pretty cool innovations like their Diamond 10 Technology for enhanced scratch resistance in vinyl.

They also have HydoCore technology for enhanced water resistance.

And of course, they’re making a big push towards sustainability, with initiatives like using recycled content in their products and reducing waste in their manufacturing processes.

I have seen them use innovative materials like bio-based polymers and rapidly renewable resources.

They are trying to be more eco-friendly, but the real question is, are they actually walking the walk?

Section 2: Product Range and Features

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about Armstrong’s specific flooring options.

Vinyl Flooring:

Armstrong’s vinyl flooring is super popular, and for good reason.

It’s durable, water-resistant, and comes in a ton of styles and patterns.

You’ve got your traditional sheet vinyl, which is great for bathrooms and kitchens because it’s virtually seamless.

Then there’s vinyl tile, which offers more design flexibility.

And vinyl plank, which is designed to mimic the look of real hardwood or stone.

One of the coolest features of Armstrong’s vinyl is their Diamond 10 Technology.

It is a protective coating that makes the flooring incredibly scratch-resistant.

I’ve seen it stand up to pets, kids, and heavy foot traffic like a champ.

Laminate Flooring:

If you want the look of hardwood without the hefty price tag, laminate is a solid option.

Armstrong’s laminate flooring is designed to be durable and easy to maintain.

It’s also resistant to stains, fading, and dents.

They offer a variety of styles, from classic wood grains to more modern and contemporary looks.

Hardwood Flooring:

For those who crave the real deal, Armstrong offers both solid and engineered hardwood flooring.

Solid hardwood is classic and timeless, but it’s not the best choice for areas with high moisture levels.

Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is more stable and can be installed in basements and other moisture-prone areas.

Armstrong’s hardwood flooring comes in a variety of wood species, finishes, and plank sizes, so you can really customize the look of your space.

Tile Flooring:

Armstrong’s tile selection includes ceramic, porcelain, and luxury vinyl tile (LVT).

Ceramic and porcelain tile are great for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where you need a durable, water-resistant surface.

LVT is a good alternative to natural stone or ceramic tile, offering similar aesthetics with added comfort and warmth underfoot.

Design Options and Customization:

One of the things I like about Armstrong is that they offer a lot of design options and customization.

They have a tool on their website called Design a Room where you can upload a photo of your space and virtually try out different flooring options.

This can really help you visualize how a particular floor will look in your home before you commit to buying it.

Comparison with Other Leading Brands:

How does Armstrong stack up against the competition?

Well, compared to brands like Pergo or Mohawk, Armstrong generally offers a wider range of products and design options.

They also tend to be a bit more focused on sustainability than some of their competitors.

However, some customers have reported that Armstrong’s pricing can be a bit higher than other brands.

Ultimately, the best flooring brand for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Section 3: Customer Experiences and Reviews

Okay, let’s see what real customers are saying about Armstrong Flooring.

I’ve scoured online retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot, social media, and home improvement forums to get a sense of public perception.

Common Positive Experiences:

A lot of customers rave about Armstrong’s design versatility.

They love that they can find a flooring option that matches their style, whether it’s traditional, modern, or somewhere in between.

Ease of installation is another common praise, especially for their vinyl plank and laminate flooring.

Many DIYers have reported that they were able to install the flooring themselves without too much trouble.

Frequent Complaints or Concerns:

Of course, not everyone has a perfect experience with Armstrong Flooring.

Some customers have complained about durability issues, particularly with their laminate flooring.

They’ve reported that it scratches easily or that the finish wears off quickly.

Pricing is another concern for some.

Armstrong’s products can be more expensive than comparable options from other brands.

Some customers have also expressed frustration with Armstrong’s customer service, citing long wait times or unhelpful representatives.

Impact of Customer Service on Overall Satisfaction:

Customer service can make or break a company’s reputation.

If a customer has a problem with their flooring, they want to know that the company will stand behind their product and provide support.

Unfortunately, some customers have reported negative experiences with Armstrong’s customer service, which has definitely impacted their overall satisfaction.

Here is a small table of reviews

Section 4: Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Now, let’s talk about Armstrong’s eco-friendly initiatives.

This is a big selling point for a lot of consumers these days, so it’s important to see if Armstrong is actually committed to sustainability or if it’s just a marketing ploy.

Sustainable Materials:

Armstrong claims to use sustainable materials in their products, such as recycled content, bio-based polymers, and rapidly renewable resources like bamboo and cork.

I have seen some products using recycled content, but it varies widely depending on the specific flooring type.

Certifications and Eco-Labels:

Armstrong has obtained several certifications and eco-labels for their products, including FloorScore and GreenGuard.

FloorScore certifies that flooring products meet strict indoor air quality standards, while GreenGuard certifies that products have low chemical emissions.

These certifications are a good sign that Armstrong is taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of their products.

Recycling Programs and Waste Reduction:

Armstrong has implemented recycling programs and waste reduction efforts in their manufacturing facilities.

They’re working to reduce the amount of waste they send to landfills and to reuse materials whenever possible.

They also offer a recycling program for their vinyl flooring, which allows customers to send their old vinyl flooring back to Armstrong to be recycled into new products.

Comparison to Industry Standards:

How does Armstrong compare to other flooring manufacturers in terms of eco-friendliness?

Well, they’re definitely ahead of some of the competition.

But there are other companies out there that are even more committed to sustainability.

For example, some companies use only sustainably harvested wood in their hardwood flooring, while others use completely recycled materials in their vinyl flooring.

Armstrong is making progress, but there’s still room for improvement.

Section 5: The Shocking Truth

Okay, folks, it’s time for the “shocking truth” about Armstrong Flooring.

And trust me, this is something you need to know before you make a decision about buying their products.

Here it is: Armstrong Flooring is no longer an independent company.

In 2019, Armstrong Flooring filed for bankruptcy, and in 2022, their North American assets were acquired by AHF Products. (Source: https://www.floordaily.net/floorfocus-june-2022-armstrong)

AHF Products is a leading hardwood flooring manufacturer, but they also produce vinyl and laminate flooring.

So, what does this mean for you, the consumer?

Well, it means that the Armstrong Flooring you’re buying today is not the same Armstrong Flooring that existed before 2022.

The company is now under new ownership, and while AHF Products has stated that they are committed to maintaining the Armstrong brand and quality, there’s always a risk that things could change.

Potential Implications:

This acquisition could have several implications for consumers.

For one, the quality of Armstrong Flooring products could change under new ownership.

AHF Products may choose to cut costs or alter the manufacturing process, which could impact the durability or appearance of the flooring.

Additionally, the warranty coverage for Armstrong Flooring products could change.

AHF Products may not honor the same warranty terms that were in place before the acquisition.

Finally, the availability of certain Armstrong Flooring products could change.

AHF Products may choose to discontinue some product lines or introduce new ones, which could limit your options.

Counterpoints and Alternative Perspectives:

Of course, it’s important to consider that this acquisition could also have some positive effects.

AHF Products is a well-established company with a strong reputation in the flooring industry.

They may be able to bring new resources and expertise to Armstrong Flooring, which could lead to improved products and services.

Additionally, AHF Products may be able to offer better pricing or financing options than Armstrong Flooring was able to offer on its own.

Ultimately, the impact of this acquisition on consumers remains to be seen.

But it’s important to be aware of this change in ownership and to consider the potential implications before you make a decision about buying Armstrong Flooring.

Section 6: Conclusion and Final Thoughts

So, is Armstrong Flooring worth it?

Well, it’s a complicated question.

On the one hand, Armstrong offers a wide range of flooring options, innovative features, and a commitment to sustainability.

They also have a long history in the flooring industry and a strong brand reputation.

On the other hand, Armstrong’s products can be more expensive than other brands, and some customers have reported durability issues and problems with customer service.

And of course, there’s the “shocking truth” that Armstrong Flooring is no longer an independent company.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy Armstrong Flooring is a personal one.

You need to weigh the pros and cons and consider your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

But I encourage you to be an informed consumer and to do your research before you make a decision.

Don’t just take my word for it or the company’s marketing materials.

Read customer reviews, compare prices, and talk to flooring professionals.

And most importantly, be aware of the “shocking truth” about Armstrong Flooring’s ownership.

This information could impact your decision and help you make the best choice for your home.

Thanks for reading! I hope this article has been helpful in your flooring journey.

Happy renovating!

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