Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating reports that certain SmartCore® luxury vinyl plank (“LVP”) flooring may experience premature locking-system failures, resulting in separating planks, broken joints, gaps, and costly repairs.
SmartCore flooring is marketed as a durable, waterproof flooring system designed for residential use. However, some homeowners have reported that planks separate after installation, locking tabs fracture during ordinary use, or joints fail despite proper installation and compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions. In many cases, consumers report that individual planks cannot easily be repaired because the interlocking flooring system requires removal of substantial portions of the floor.
This investigation focuses on premature locking-system failures and is separate from investigations involving ordinary wear, cosmetic scratching, or unrelated flooring products.
Reported Problems with SmartCore Flooring
Consumers have reported experiencing:
- broken locking tabs;
- planks separating after installation;
- gaps developing between adjoining planks;
- flooring that shifts or moves during normal use;
- difficulty replacing damaged planks because of the locking design;
- repeated repairs after earlier warranty work; and
- warranty disputes concerning installation versus product defects.
Potential Consequences
Premature locking-system failures may result in:
- replacement of large sections of flooring;
- labor costs substantially exceeding the cost of replacement planks;
- diminished appearance of finished floors;
- uneven walking surfaces;
- repeated warranty service; and
- significant repair expenses despite relatively new flooring.
We Are Interested in Hearing From Homeowners Who Experienced:
- broken locking tabs;
- separating or shifting SmartCore flooring;
- gaps developing between planks;
- flooring failures despite proper installation;
- repeated warranty repairs;
- denied warranty claims; or
- significant expenses associated with repairing failed locking joints.
If you purchased or installed SmartCore flooring and experienced these or similar problems, we would like to hear from you.
Please complete the contact form on this page, send us an email at [email protected], or call (202) 470-3520 for a free, confidential evaluation.