If you are shopping for vinyl flooring at Costco, there are 2 high-quality products that have been around for years. Yes, we are talking about the Mohawk Home and Golden Arowana. Both have their unique features, let’s figure out which of these vinyl planks best suits your needs.
Thickness and Durability
Both flooring options boast a 5mm plank thickness with a 1mm attached pad, offering a total thickness of 6mm. This combination provides ample durability and comfort underfoot. However, there’s a subtle difference: the Mohawk Home option comes with a 20 mil wear layer, while Golden Arowana edges ahead with a slightly thicker 22 mil wear layer. This means the Golden Arowana can theoretically endure just a bit more punishment from kids or pets. I installed Golden Arowana planks in my living room 2 years ago and they still look brand new today.
Installation Systems: Uniclic vs. Tap-and-Lock
Mohawk Home uses the Uniclic joint system, which is known for being more forgiving on uneven floors. If your subfloor isn’t perfectly level, Uniclic provides a more secure fit, ensuring each plank locks in tightly without leaving awkward gaps or creaking noises. The trade-off here is that Uniclic requires a more intricate installation process: aligning the plank to the one on the left, lifting it slightly, tapping it in place, and then gently nudging it into the row above.
On the other hand, the Golden Arowana uses a tap-and-lock system that feels like a breeze in comparison. Instead of the dance of alignment and angle, you simply align the plank, tap it straight down with a rubber mallet, and it clicks into place. This method is particularly forgiving if you’re working in tight spaces. Golden Arowana doesn’t just save you time – it saves you from a lot of frustration.
Ease vs. Security
Golden Arowana may win the ease-of-installation battle, but Mohawk Home puts up a good fight with its more secure locking system. The Uniclic system provides an extra level of assurance, especially on floors that aren’t perfectly flat. With Mohawk, you can trust that once the planks are locked, they’re staying that way, even in high-traffic areas.
Golden Arowana’s system, while easier, may require a bit more attention on uneven surfaces. It could be less secure over time if the subfloor isn’t properly prepared.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, both Golden Arowana and Mohawk Home offer fantastic options for waterproof vinyl plank flooring. Your choice will depend on what you value more: ease of installation or a robust locking mechanism. Either way, you’re getting a good-quality floor that would last for years.
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