There’s a new player in the luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) game, and it’s turning heads. The Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is the latest offering from Shaw Floors, a company known for its innovative flooring solutions.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the features, pros, and cons of this product to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your next flooring project.
What Sets the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus Apart?
The Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is a luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring that combines the best of both worlds – the durability and water resistance of vinyl flooring with the high-resolution visuals and textured feel of real hardwood.
Its embossed in register (EIR) technology creates a realistic wood-like texture, making it difficult to distinguish from the real thing.
Pros
- Unmatched Durability
Shaw’s Prodigy HDR MXL Plus boasts an impressive 20-mil wear layer, making it one of the most durable LVP flooring options on the market. This wear layer ensures that your flooring is resistant to scratches, dents, and other daily wear and tear. It’s perfect for high-traffic areas and households with pets and kids.
- Waterproof Design
Thanks to its waterproof construction, Shaw’s Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Unlike traditional hardwood flooring, this LVP can withstand spills and splashes without warping or buckling.
- Easy Installation
One of the significant advantages of the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is its easy installation. The Fold-N-Tap locking system allows for a quick and secure installation without the need for adhesives or additional fasteners. It’s a great option for DIY enthusiasts or those looking to save on professional installation costs.
- Low Maintenance
With its stain and scratch resistance, the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus requires minimal maintenance. A regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping are all it takes to keep your floors looking pristine.
Cons
- Price
While the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus offers numerous benefits, it comes at a higher price point than some other LVP options. However, considering its durability and the potential cost savings from not needing professional installation, it may still be a worthwhile investment.
- Limited Design Options
Although the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus features high-resolution visuals and realistic textures, the design options are limited compared to other LVP lines. However, the available styles should still satisfy most homeowners’ tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The wear layer on the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is an impressive 20 mils thick. This wear layer ensures exceptional durability and resistance to scratches, stains, and other daily wear and tear.
Some potential disadvantages of LVT flooring include:
1. A higher price point compared to other vinyl flooring options
2. Limited design options compared to other flooring materials
3. The possibility of fading when exposed to direct sunlight over long periods
However, these disadvantages may be offset by the durability, ease of installation, and waterproof nature of LVT flooring.
The main difference between LVT (luxury vinyl tile) and LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring is their appearance. LVT mimics the look of stone or ceramic tiles, while LVP imitates hardwood planks. Both options offer similar benefits in terms of durability, water resistance, and ease of installation.
The choice between LVT and LVP flooring ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired aesthetic for your space. If you prefer the appearance of hardwood flooring, LVP is the way to go. If you’re looking for a tile or stone look, LVT would be a better choice.
Luxury vinyl flooring, like the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus, offers numerous advantages over traditional vinyl flooring and other flooring materials. With its superior durability, water resistance, ease of installation, and realistic visuals, luxury vinyl flooring can be an excellent investment for your home.
While it may be more expensive upfront than some other flooring options, the long-term benefits and cost savings from reduced maintenance and potential DIY installation make it a worthwhile choice for many homeowners.
LVT and real wood flooring both have their advantages and disadvantages. LVT is more durable, water-resistant, and low maintenance compared to real wood flooring. It is also generally more affordable and easier to install. However, real wood flooring has a timeless beauty and can be refinished multiple times, potentially extending its lifespan.
Ultimately, the decision between LVT and real wood flooring depends on factors like your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences. If you want a durable, low-maintenance flooring option that closely mimics the appearance of hardwood, LVT may be the better choice. However, if you value the authenticity and potential longevity of real wood, it may be worth the investment.
One of the significant advantages of LVT, like the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus, is its water resistance. Unlike traditional hardwood flooring, which can warp or buckle when exposed to moisture, LVT can withstand spills and splashes without damage. This makes it an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
However, it’s essential to note that while LVT is water-resistant, it is not entirely waterproof. In cases of extreme flooding or prolonged exposure to standing water, LVT can still be damaged. It’s essential to address any water-related issues promptly to prevent damage to your LVT flooring.
Conclusion
The Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus offers a compelling combination of durability, water resistance, and realistic visuals that make it a top contender in the luxury vinyl flooring market. While it may come at a higher price point than some other LVP options, its impressive 20-mil wear layer and easy installation process make it an excellent investment for many homeowners.
By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this review, you can make an informed decision about whether the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is the right choice for your next flooring project. With its unmatched durability, waterproof design, easy installation, and low maintenance requirements, the Shaw Prodigy HDR MXL Plus is undoubtedly worth considering for those looking for a high-quality luxury vinyl flooring solution.
