Style Selections Natural Hickory

Transforming Spaces with Nature’s Timeless Beauty

When it comes to transforming the ambiance of your home, few elements make as profound an impact as flooring. Among the myriad of options available today, Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring stands out as a premium choice that combines authentic wood aesthetics with practical durability. As someone who recently underwent a complete home renovation, I’ve spent countless hours researching flooring options, and Style Selections Natural Hickory captured my attention for its distinctive character and versatility.

The journey to finding the perfect flooring solution can be overwhelming. With considerations ranging from durability and maintenance to aesthetics and cost, homeowners often find themselves lost in a sea of options. Today, I’m going to share everything I’ve learned about Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring—from what it is and where to find it, to installation tips and maintenance advice that will help you make an informed decision for your home.

What Exactly Is Style Selections Natural Hickory Flooring?

Style Selections Natural Hickory is a premium flooring option offered exclusively through Lowe’s as part of their house brand of home improvement products. But what exactly are you getting when you purchase this flooring? This is a question I pondered extensively during my renovation planning.

Style Selections Natural Hickory is actually a high-quality laminate flooring product that masterfully mimics the appearance of genuine hickory hardwood. While it isn’t solid hardwood, this doesn’t diminish its appeal. In fact, modern laminate technology has advanced tremendously, creating products that are increasingly difficult to distinguish from real wood at a glance.

The flooring features a detailed photographic layer that captures the intricate grain patterns, color variations, and natural characteristics of hickory wood. This photographic layer is then sealed beneath a protective wear layer that provides resistance against scratches, fading, and daily wear. The core of the planks consists of high-density fiberboard (HDF), which contributes to the stability and durability of the flooring.

What makes Style Selections Natural Hickory particularly appealing is its ability to capture the essence of hickory’s natural beauty—the rich honey-amber tones, distinctive grain patterns, and natural variations that give each plank a unique character. The designers have paid careful attention to creating a realistic wood look, complete with textured surfaces that mimic the feel of natural wood grain underfoot.

Where To Buy Style Selections Natural Hickory Flooring

As mentioned, Style Selections is a house brand exclusive to Lowe’s home improvement stores. This exclusivity means that your primary source for purchasing this flooring will be through Lowe’s retail locations or their online store. While this might seem limiting compared to flooring brands available through multiple retailers, it actually streamlines the shopping process considerably.

I found that shopping at Lowe’s offered several advantages. First, you can visit a physical store to see and feel the flooring in person—something I consider essential before making such a significant investment in your home. The ability to observe how the light plays on the surface and to feel the texture beneath your fingers provides insights that online images simply cannot convey.

Additionally, Lowe’s typically has knowledgeable staff in their flooring department who can answer specific questions about installation requirements, maintenance, and compatibility with your home’s conditions. They often have sample displays that show how the flooring looks when installed across a larger area—giving you a better sense of the overall effect than small sample pieces alone can provide.

If you prefer online shopping, Lowe’s website offers detailed product specifications and customer reviews that can help inform your decision. They frequently run promotions and sales events that might help you secure a better price on your flooring purchase. Just be sure to order a few extra boxes beyond your calculated needs to account for cuts, waste, and any future repairs.

Laminate vs. Real Wood: Understanding Style Selections Natural Hickory

One of the most common questions about Style Selections Natural Hickory concerns its composition—is it real wood or laminate? This question reflects a broader confusion in the flooring market, where terminology can sometimes be misleading.

Style Selections Natural Hickory is a laminate product, not solid hardwood or engineered wood. This distinction is important for several reasons that affect both price and performance.

Laminate flooring consists of multiple layers fused together through a lamination process (hence the name). The core typically consists of high-density fiberboard (HDF), which provides stability and some sound insulation. Above this core is a photographic layer that replicates the appearance of natural wood with impressive accuracy. The top layer is a clear, durable wear layer that protects against scratches, stains, and fading.

In contrast, solid hardwood flooring consists of single pieces of wood milled from timber, while engineered wood features a real wood veneer bonded to multiple plywood layers.

The laminate construction of Style Selections Natural Hickory offers several advantages:

1. Cost-effectiveness: Laminate is significantly more affordable than genuine hardwood flooring, making it accessible for more homeowners.
2. Durability: The engineered wear layer can actually provide better resistance to scratches, dents, and moisture than some natural woods, particularly softer species.
3. Consistency: Each plank has a uniform quality and stability, whereas natural wood can have unpredictable knots, grain patterns, and potential for warping.
4. Ease of maintenance: Laminate generally requires less specialized care than hardwood, which may need periodic refinishing.
5. Environmental considerations: Laminate uses less hardwood resources than solid wood flooring, which can be a consideration for environmentally conscious consumers.

Understanding that Style Selections Natural Hickory is laminate rather than solid wood helps set appropriate expectations for both its performance and price point.

The Investment: Style Selections Natural Hickory Flooring Cost

When budgeting for any home improvement project, cost naturally becomes a primary consideration. Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring is positioned as a mid-range laminate option that balances quality with affordability.

As of my last renovation project, Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring typically ranged from $2.50 to $3.50 per square foot for the materials alone. This price point places it in a sweet spot—more expensive than basic laminates but significantly more affordable than genuine hardwood flooring, which can easily cost $5 to $15 per square foot or more.

However, the total cost of your flooring project will extend beyond just the price of the planks themselves. A comprehensive budget should include:

1. Underlayment: While some laminate products come with pre-attached underlayment, others require separate purchase. Quality underlayment generally costs $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot.
2. Trim and transition pieces: These finishing elements typically cost $2 to $5 per linear foot and are essential for a polished look where your flooring meets other surfaces.
3. Tools and supplies: If you’re installing yourself, you may need to purchase or rent tools like a pull bar, tapping block, spacers, and saw.
4. Installation costs: Professional installation typically adds $2 to $4 per square foot to your project cost.
5. Removal and disposal of existing flooring: This service can add another $1 to $2 per square foot if you’re not handling it yourself.

When calculating your overall budget, don’t forget to account for waste. The standard recommendation is to purchase 10% more flooring than your square footage calculation indicates, to allow for cuts, mistakes, and irregularly shaped rooms.

It’s worth noting that Lowe’s frequently offers promotional pricing on their Style Selections products, so timing your purchase to coincide with sales events can result in significant savings. Additionally, signing up for a Lowe’s credit account sometimes provides discounts on first purchases, which can be substantial for large flooring projects.

Standout Features of Style Selections Natural Hickory Flooring

What makes Style Selections Natural Hickory a compelling choice among the vast array of laminate flooring options? After examining the product and speaking with both sales representatives and homeowners who’ve installed it, several distinguishing features emerge:

Authentic Appearance: Perhaps the most impressive quality of Style Selections Natural Hickory is its remarkably realistic wood appearance. The manufacturer has invested in high-definition printing technology that captures the intricate details of natural hickory—from the prominent grain patterns to the subtle color variations that hickory is known for. Many guests may not even realize they’re walking on laminate rather than hardwood.

Textured Surface: Unlike basic laminates with smooth, obviously artificial surfaces, Style Selections Natural Hickory features textured finishing that mimics the feel of real wood grain. This embossed-in-register (EIR) texturing aligns perfectly with the visual wood grain, creating a more convincing tactile experience.

Color Variation: Just like natural hickory, this flooring showcases a pleasing range of tones—from warm honey hues to deeper amber and caramel colors. These variations add visual interest and help create a more natural, less uniform appearance across your floor.

Beveled Edges: Many of the Style Selections Natural Hickory products feature micro-beveled edges that define each plank and enhance the authentic hardwood appearance. These subtle grooves between planks create dimension and shadow lines that further the hardwood illusion.

Thickness and Stability: The planks typically measure 8mm to 12mm in thickness, providing good stability and some sound absorption qualities. This thickness also contributes to a more solid feel underfoot compared to thinner laminate options.

Wear Resistance: The top wear layer is engineered to resist scratches, stains, and fading—giving the flooring impressive longevity even in busy households. Many versions are rated for commercial or heavy residential use, indicating their durability.

Easy Installation System: Style Selections Natural Hickory typically features a user-friendly click-lock installation system that allows planks to snap together without glue, making it accessible for moderately skilled DIYers.

These features collectively create a flooring product that delivers much of the aesthetic appeal of genuine hickory hardwood at a fraction of the cost, while potentially offering superior resistance to daily wear and damage.

Durability: How Style Selections Natural Hickory Handles High-Traffic Areas

For many homeowners, durability ranks as the single most important consideration when selecting flooring—particularly for high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and living rooms. So how does Style Selections Natural Hickory perform under pressure?

Style Selections Natural Hickory laminate is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of busy households. The wear layer, typically rated at AC3 or AC4 on the Abrasion Class rating system, provides substantial protection against scratches, impacts, and daily wear. AC3 is rated for moderate commercial use, while AC4 is suitable for general commercial traffic—both ratings exceed the requirements for residential settings.

The high-density fiberboard core contributes to the flooring’s impact resistance, helping it withstand dropped items without denting—a common issue with some natural wood floors. This resilience makes it particularly well-suited for homes with active children, pets, or frequent entertaining.

In terms of longevity, properly installed and maintained Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring typically maintains its appearance for 15-25 years before showing significant wear. This compares favorably with many hardwood floors, which may require refinishing every 7-10 years depending on traffic and care.

The flooring also demonstrates good resistance to fading from UV exposure, making it suitable for sunlit rooms where natural wood might experience noticeable color changes over time. However, like all laminates, extreme or prolonged direct sunlight can eventually cause some fading, so window treatments are recommended in intensely sunny areas.

While highly durable, Style Selections Natural Hickory isn’t indestructible. Sharp objects like unprotected furniture legs or high heels can potentially damage the surface over time. Similarly, while it offers decent moisture resistance for brief exposures, it isn’t fully waterproof and shouldn’t be installed in areas prone to flooding or constant moisture. For enhanced moisture protection, look for Style Selections products specifically labeled as water-resistant, which incorporate additional protective technologies.

Dimensions and Coverage: Understanding Style Selections Natural Hickory Planks

When planning your flooring project, understanding the dimensions of Style Selections Natural Hickory planks is essential for calculating materials needed and visualizing the finished appearance.

Style Selections Natural Hickory laminate typically comes in planks measuring approximately 4.92 inches wide by 47.24 inches long (125mm x 1200mm). This relatively generous width helps showcase the beautiful grain patterns of hickory and creates a more authentic hardwood appearance than narrower planks. The substantial length contributes to faster installation and fewer end seams in the finished floor.

As mentioned earlier, the thickness varies by specific product line, generally ranging from 8mm to 12mm. The thicker options (10-12mm) provide enhanced stability and a more solid feel underfoot, while also offering improved sound-dampening properties—an important consideration for multi-story homes.

Each box of Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring typically covers about 14-16 square feet, though this can vary slightly between product lines. When calculating how many boxes you’ll need, remember to add the recommended 10% extra for waste and cuts.

The plank dimensions are designed to strike a balance between authentic appearance and practical installation. They’re large enough to showcase the beautiful hickory patterns but not so large that they become unwieldy during installation. The proportions also work well in both large open spaces and smaller rooms.

One advantage of these standard dimensions is compatibility with common trim pieces and transitions. Lowe’s typically stocks matching trim options designed specifically for Style Selections flooring, ensuring a cohesive finished look throughout your space.

Installation Considerations: Can Style Selections Natural Hickory Go Over Concrete?

Many homeowners question whether laminate flooring like Style Selections Natural Hickory can be installed over concrete subfloors—a common scenario in basements, ground-floor rooms, and slab foundation homes.

The good news is that Style Selections Natural Hickory laminate can indeed be installed over concrete subfloors, but proper preparation and moisture management are crucial for success. Concrete naturally contains moisture that can potentially migrate upward into flooring materials, causing damage if not properly addressed.

When installing over concrete, these steps are essential:

1. Moisture testing: Before installation, test the concrete for moisture content using a reliable moisture meter or calcium chloride test. The readings should fall within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
2. Surface preparation: The concrete must be clean, level, and free of cracks or significant imperfections. Patching compounds can address minor issues, but major leveling may require self-leveling underlayment.
3. Vapor barrier: A plastic sheet vapor barrier (minimum 6-mil thickness) should be installed over the concrete, with seams overlapped and taped. This creates a moisture barrier between the concrete and your new flooring.
4. Quality underlayment: Over the vapor barrier, install appropriate underlayment designed for use with laminate flooring over concrete. Some products combine vapor barrier and underlayment functions in a single layer.
5. Acclimation: Allow the flooring to acclimate in the installation space for at least 48 hours before installation to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.
6. Expansion gaps: Maintain the recommended expansion gap (typically 1/4 to 3/8 inch) around the perimeter of the room to allow for natural expansion and contraction.

Concrete installation requires a few more preparatory steps than installation over plywood subfloors, but the additional effort ensures a stable, long-lasting floor. Some homeowners choose to have this type of installation performed by professionals, particularly if moisture issues or leveling concerns are present.

Remember that while Style Selections Natural Hickory offers good moisture resistance for a laminate product, it’s not completely waterproof. For basement installations or areas with potential moisture concerns, consider specially designed water-resistant laminate options if available in the Style Selections line.

DIY or Professional? Installing Style Selections Natural Hickory Flooring

One of the appealing aspects of Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring is its installation-friendly design. The question many homeowners face is whether to tackle this as a DIY project or hire professionals. Having gone through this decision process myself, I can offer some perspective on both approaches.

Style Selections Natural Hickory typically features a user-friendly click-lock installation system that allows the planks to connect without glue or nails. This floating floor installation method is considerably more accessible to DIYers than traditional nail-down hardwood installation.

For the moderately handy homeowner, DIY installation of Style Selections Natural Hickory is entirely feasible. The process typically involves:

1. Thorough subfloor preparation: Cleaning, leveling, and ensuring the subfloor is structurally sound.
2. Installing underlayment: Rolling out and seaming the appropriate underlayment material.
3. Planning the layout: Determining the direction of planks and planning the starting point to ensure balanced appearance.
4. Installing the first row: Carefully aligning and connecting the first row, using spacers to maintain the expansion gap.
5. Continuing the installation: Working row by row, staggering end joints for structural integrity and visual appeal.
6. Fitting around obstacles: Cutting planks to accommodate doorways, cabinets, and other fixed elements.
7. Installing trim: Adding baseboards or quarter round to cover the expansion gaps.

The primary tools needed include a saw (jigsaw, circular saw, or miter saw), measuring tape, pull bar, tapping block, spacers, and basic hand tools. While not technically complex, laminate installation does require patience, attention to detail, and the ability to make precise cuts.

The advantages of DIY installation include significant cost savings (typically $2-4 per square foot) and the satisfaction of completing a major home improvement project. The disadvantages include the time commitment (a medium-sized room might take a full weekend for a novice) and the learning curve that might result in some waste or imperfections.

Professional installation, while more expensive, offers several benefits:

1. Speed and efficiency: Professionals can typically complete in hours what might take a DIYer days.
2. Expertise with difficult situations: Pros have encountered and solved virtually every installation challenge.
3. Proper equipment: Professional installers have specialized tools that make certain aspects of installation more precise.
4. Warranty considerations: Some flooring warranties may require professional installation to remain valid.

My recommendation is to honestly assess your DIY skills, available time, and the complexity of your space. Simple rectangular rooms with minimal obstacles are excellent candidates for DIY installation. Complex layouts with numerous doorways, irregular shapes, or stairs might justify professional installation.

Scratch Resistance: How Style Selections Natural Hickory Stands Up to Daily Life

In active households with children, pets, or frequent entertaining, scratch resistance becomes a crucial consideration for flooring. Style Selections Natural Hickory has engineered features specifically designed to address this concern.

The scratch resistance of Style Selections Natural Hickory comes primarily from its aluminum oxide wear layer—a transparent protective coating applied during manufacturing. This wear layer is remarkably durable, rated typically at AC3 or AC4 on the industry-standard Abrasion Classification scale.

In practical terms, this means the flooring can withstand most daily activities without showing visible scratches. Normal foot traffic, children’s toys, and occasional furniture movement generally won’t leave noticeable marks. Many pet owners also report satisfactory performance with regular nail trimming for their furry companions.

However, like all flooring products, Style Selections Natural Hickory does have its limits. Very sharp objects, heavy dragging of furniture, or abrasive materials can potentially damage the surface. To maximize scratch resistance:

1. Use felt pads: Apply quality felt pads to all furniture legs to prevent scratches when items are moved.
2. Implement a no-shoes policy: Consider removing shoes, especially high heels or work boots with debris embedded in the treads.
3. Use area rugs: Place area rugs in high-traffic zones or under dining tables where chair movement occurs frequently.
4. Regular cleaning: Keep the floor free of dirt and debris that can act as abrasives when walked upon.
5. Pet nail maintenance: Keep pet nails trimmed and consider runner rugs in areas where pets frequently run or play.

It’s worth noting that Style Selections Natural Hickory’s textured surface works to your advantage in terms of scratch resistance. The embossed texture helps camouflage minor scratches that might be more visible on completely smooth laminates.

Another benefit compared to natural wood is that scratches on laminate are surface phenomena—they affect only the wear layer rather than gouging the actual material. While deep scratches in natural wood require sanding and refinishing, a laminate floor maintains its overall integrity even with minor surface damage.

Underlayment Requirements for Style Selections Natural Hickory

An often-overlooked aspect of laminate flooring installation is underlayment—the thin cushioning layer that goes between your subfloor and laminate planks. Style Selections Natural Hickory, like most laminates, requires appropriate underlayment for optimal performance and warranty compliance.

Some versions of Style Selections Natural Hickory come with pre-attached underlayment, which simplifies installation and ensures appropriate cushioning. These products typically have a soft foam layer already affixed to the bottom of each plank. If you select one of these options, additional underlayment is generally not needed and might actually compromise the floor’s performance.

For versions without attached underlayment, you’ll need to purchase and install a separate underlayment product. The right underlayment serves several important functions:

1. Smoothing minor subfloor imperfections: It helps bridge small gaps or inconsistencies in the subfloor.
2. Sound dampening: It reduces the hollow sound that can occur when walking on floating floors.
3. Thermal insulation: It provides a slight insulating barrier between your subfloor and living space.
4. Moisture protection: Some underlayments include vapor barrier properties essential for concrete subfloors.

When selecting underlayment for Style Selections Natural Hickory, look for products specifically designed for laminate flooring with a thickness between 2mm and 3mm. Thicker isn’t necessarily better, as excessively soft underlayment can compromise the stability of the locking system.

For installations over concrete, ensure your underlayment includes moisture barrier properties or add a separate 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier beneath standard underlayment. For installations over wood subfloors on upper levels, consider underlayment with enhanced sound-dampening properties to reduce noise transfer between floors.

Lowe’s typically stocks appropriate underlayment options near their Style Selections flooring displays, including basic foam underlayment, premium options with enhanced sound control, and combination products with integrated moisture barriers. The cost typically ranges from $0.30 to $0.70 per square foot, depending on performance features.

Proper underlayment installation is straightforward but important—unroll it with the moisture barrier side down (if applicable), butt the seams together without overlapping, and secure seams with tape designed for underlayment. Taking the time to install underlayment correctly provides the foundation for a successful flooring installation.

The Aesthetic: Finish Types for Style Selections Natural Hickory

The visual appeal of Style Selections Natural Hickory comes not just from its photographic layer but also from the type of finish applied to the surface. This finish contributes significantly to both the appearance and performance of the flooring.

Style Selections Natural Hickory typically features what’s known as a low-gloss or satin finish. This matte to semi-gloss appearance provides several advantages over high-gloss alternatives:

1. Enhanced realism: The subdued sheen more closely resembles natural oiled or lightly finished wood rather than a obviously manufactured high-gloss surface.
2. Better scratch concealment: Lower gloss finishes show scratches and wear less prominently than highly reflective surfaces.
3. Reduced visibility of footprints and dust: Satin finishes don’t show every footprint or dust particle the way high-gloss floors can.
4. Timeless appeal: While extreme gloss levels can quickly look dated, moderate sheen levels maintain their appeal through changing design trends.

The finish is typically enhanced with texture that aligns with the visual wood grain—a manufacturing technique known as embossed-in-register (EIR). This means that where you see a wood grain line, you can actually feel a corresponding depression in the surface. This tactile element significantly enhances the realistic wood appearance and provides subtle traction underfoot.

Some variations of Style Selections Natural Hickory might offer different finish options, potentially including:

• Handscraped texture: Mimicking the look of traditionally handcrafted wood floors with subtle waves and depressions
• Wire-brushed appearance: Creating the look of wood that’s been brushed with wire bristles to emphasize grain
• Distressed finish: Incorporating the appearance of dents, dings, and wear for a reclaimed or antique look

These finish variations allow you to select a Style Selections Natural Hickory option that best complements your home’s design aesthetic—whether that’s contemporary, traditional, rustic, or transitional.

The protective wear layer applied over the decorative layer and finish is typically clear aluminum oxide—an extremely durable compound that provides resistance to scratches, stains, and fading without obscuring the beauty of the hickory appearance beneath.

Keeping It Beautiful: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

One of the major advantages of Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring is its relatively low maintenance requirements compared to natural wood. With proper care, this flooring can maintain its beautiful appearance for many years. Here’s a comprehensive maintenance strategy based on my research and experience:

Routine Cleaning

For day-to-day cleaning, less is more with laminate flooring. A microfiber dust mop or vacuum with a soft brush attachment (never a beater bar) is ideal for removing surface dust and debris. This simple step, performed a few times weekly, prevents abrasive particles from scratching the surface during normal foot traffic.

For deeper cleaning, slightly dampen (never soak) a microfiber mop with a manufacturer-approved laminate cleaner or a simple solution of water with a few drops of dish soap. Always wipe in the direction of the planks rather than across them to avoid pushing moisture into the seams.

What to Avoid

Style Selections Natural Hickory, like all laminates, is sensitive to certain cleaning approaches:

• Avoid excess moisture: Never use a soaking wet mop, steam cleaner, or pour liquid directly onto the floor.
• Skip the shine enhancers: Products promising to add shine often leave residue that can make the floor slippery and attract more dirt.
• Say no to abrasives: Scrubbing pads, steel wool, and abrasive cleaners can damage the protective wear layer.
• Beware of wax and polish: These products designed for other flooring types can create a dull film on laminate.
• Avoid vinegar solutions: Despite popular cleaning myths, vinegar can eventually dull the finish of laminate flooring.

Preventative Maintenance

Prevention is your best strategy for keeping Style Selections Natural Hickory looking its best:

1. Use entry mats: Place mats at all exterior doors to capture dirt, moisture, and debris before it reaches your flooring.
2. Implement a no-shoes policy: Consider removing shoes at the door, especially high heels that concentrate weight into small pressure points.
3. Protect from furniture: Use appropriate felt pads under all furniture legs and lift (don’t drag) furniture when moving it.
4. Control humidity: Maintain indoor humidity between 35-65% to prevent excessive expansion or contraction of the flooring.
5. Manage pet access: Keep pet nails trimmed and clean up accidents promptly to prevent damage.
6. Use area rugs: Place rugs in high-traffic areas, but avoid rubber-backed varieties that can trap moisture and potentially discolor the flooring.

Dealing with Spills and Stains

Style Selections Natural Hickory offers good stain resistance, but prompt attention to spills is still important:

1. Blot up liquid spills immediately with an absorbent cloth, working from the outside toward the center.
2. For sticky spills like juice or syrup, dampen a cloth with water and a bit of approved laminate cleaner, then gently rub the area.
3. For tough stains like ink, nail polish, or paint, use a small amount of acetone or nail polish remover on a cloth (test in an inconspicuous area first), then clean normally.
4. For candle wax or chewing gum, allow it to harden completely, then gently scrape with a plastic scraper held at a 45-degree angle.

With consistent care and appropriate preventative measures, Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring can maintain its beautiful appearance with minimal effort—one of its most appealing features for busy households.

Real-World Performance: Customer Reviews and Experiences

Understanding how Style Selections Natural Hickory performs in real homes provides valuable insights beyond manufacturer specifications. Based on my research of customer reviews and conversations with homeowners, several consistent themes emerge:

Positive Feedback

1. Aesthetic appeal: Many homeowners express surprise at how closely the flooring resembles genuine hardwood, with several mentioning that guests assumed they had installed real hickory.
2. Durability in family settings: Households with children and pets frequently comment on the flooring’s resilience against daily wear, dropped toys, and active play.
3. Installation experience: DIYers generally report a positive installation experience, with the click-lock system performing as advertised and making the process approachable for those with basic home improvement skills.
4. Value proposition: A common sentiment is that the flooring delivers appearance and performance that exceeds expectations based on its price point.
5. Stability in varying conditions: Homeowners in regions with seasonal humidity changes often note that the flooring maintains its integrity without excessive gapping or buckling.

Areas of Concern

1. Sound considerations: Some reviewers mention that without quality underlayment, the flooring can sound hollow or “clicky” when walked upon, particularly in quieter homes.
2. Moisture sensitivity: While able to handle occasional spills when promptly cleaned, instances of prolonged moisture exposure (undetected leaks, flooding) typically resulted in damage requiring plank replacement.
3. Challenging repairs: Unlike hardwood that can be sanded and refinished, damaged planks must be completely replaced—a process that some homeowners found challenging, particularly for planks in the middle of a room.
4. Limited color consistency between lots: A few customers reported slight color variations when purchasing additional boxes months after their initial installation, suggesting buying all needed material at once is advisable.
5. Sensitivity to dramatic temperature changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations (such as in unheated vacation homes) occasionally caused issues with plank stability.

Overall, the consensus appears to be that Style Selections Natural Hickory delivers excellent value for its price point, with most criticisms relating to inherent characteristics of laminate flooring rather than brand-specific issues. Many long-term users report satisfaction with how the flooring has maintained its appearance over years of use, particularly when proper installation and maintenance guidelines were followed.

Water Resistance: Understanding the Limitations

Water resistance is a critical consideration for any flooring, and it’s important to have realistic expectations about Style Selections Natural Hickory in this regard. While offering better moisture resistance than traditional hardwood, standard laminate is not fully waterproof.

Standard Style Selections Natural Hickory laminate provides moderate resistance to moisture but is not waterproof. The high-density fiberboard (HDF) core can absorb water and swell if exposed to standing liquid for extended periods. The click-lock joints between planks can also allow moisture to penetrate if water is left standing.

For practical purposes, this means:

1. Brief exposures are manageable: Quick spills that are promptly wiped up typically cause no damage.
2. Prolonged exposure is problematic: Standing water left for hours (such as an undetected pet accident or leaking appliance) can potentially damage the flooring.
3. High humidity is generally fine: Normal household humidity fluctuations won’t typically damage properly acclimated and installed flooring.

It’s worth noting that Lowe’s may offer enhanced water-resistant versions of Style Selections laminate that incorporate technologies like waxed edges or water-resistant core materials. These products provide improved protection against moisture but still shouldn’t be considered fully waterproof like luxury vinyl or tile.

For areas with moisture concerns like bathrooms, kitchens, or basements, consider:

1. Using mats: Place absorbent mats near sinks, dishwashers, and entry points where water might be tracked in.
2. Prompt cleaning: Address spills immediately rather than leaving them to be cleaned later.
3. Proper installation: Ensure correct expansion gaps and avoid exposing the raw edges of planks to water.
4. Sealant for edges: In areas like bathrooms, some installers recommend a small bead of silicone caulk around the perimeter to prevent water infiltration under the flooring.
5. Alternative products: For truly wet areas like full bathrooms, consider whether a dedicated waterproof flooring option might be more appropriate.

With reasonable precautions, Style Selections Natural Hickory can perform well in kitchens and powder rooms, but may not be ideal for full bathrooms with showers or tubs, or basements with moisture issues.

Beyond the Basics: Warranty Coverage for Style Selections Natural Hickory

When investing in new flooring, understanding the warranty coverage is an essential part of evaluating your purchase. Style Selections Natural Hickory typically comes with manufacturer’s warranty protection that reflects its intended use and expected lifespan.

While specific warranty terms may vary slightly between different products in the Style Selections line, the coverage generally includes:

1. Structural integrity warranty: Usually 20-25 years for residential applications, this coverage protects against delamination, buckling, or other structural failures when the product is properly installed and maintained.
2. Wear warranty: Typically 15-20 years, this warranty covers wear-through of the decorative layer under normal residential use.
3. Fade resistance: Protection against abnormal fading from exposure to indoor lighting and sunlight through windows, typically for 5-10 years.
4. Stain resistance: Coverage for permanent staining from common household substances (excluding caustic chemicals), usually matching the wear warranty period.

It’s important to note that all laminate warranties include specific conditions and exclusions that require careful attention:

• Proper installation: Warranties typically require following all manufacturer installation guidelines, including appropriate acclimation, underlayment, and expansion gaps.
• Maintenance compliance: Using approved cleaning methods and products is typically required to maintain warranty coverage.
• Appropriate use: Installing the flooring in environments consistent with its rating (e.g., not using residential-rated products in commercial settings).
• Transfer limitations: Some warranties apply only to the original purchaser and may not transfer if you sell your home.
• Pro-rated coverage: Many warranties reduce the coverage amount based on the age of the flooring, providing full replacement value initially but declining over time.

The warranty documentation provides important insights into the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and what you can realistically expect in terms of performance. Review this documentation carefully before purchase and keep a copy along with your receipt in a safe place for future reference.

For most homeowners, Style Selections Natural Hickory’s warranty coverage aligns well with the expected lifespan of the flooring in a typical residential setting, providing reasonable protection against manufacturing defects and premature failure when properly installed and maintained.

The Complete Package: Matching Trims and Moldings

A professionally finished flooring installation requires appropriate transition pieces and trim to address edges, level changes, and transitions between different flooring types. Style Selections Natural Hickory offers coordinated moldings and trim pieces designed to complement your flooring for a cohesive appearance throughout your home.

The most common trim pieces available for Style Selections Natural Hickory include:

1. Quarter round: This small, quarter-circle molding covers the expansion gap between the flooring and baseboards. It’s particularly useful when you don’t want to remove existing baseboards during installation.
2. T-molding: Used where laminate meets another floor of equal height (like at doorways between rooms), this T-shaped transition creates a smooth bridge between the two surfaces while accommodating expansion.
3. Reducer strip: When transitioning to a lower floor covering (like vinyl, thin carpet, or ceramic tile), this sloped piece creates a smooth, gradual transition that accommodates the height difference.
4. Stair nose: For installations that include stairs, this specialized molding creates a finished edge and provides a durable, slip-resistant leading edge for each step.
5. End molding: Used against sliding doors, exterior doorways, or other areas where expansion is needed at a vertical surface, this creates a finished appearance at flooring edges.

These coordinated trim pieces are manufactured to match the color and finish of your Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring, creating a cohesive look throughout your space. They’re typically available in 94-inch lengths and designed for straightforward installation with either adhesive or mechanical fasteners, depending on the specific piece and application.

When planning your flooring project, carefully inventory all the transitions in your space to ensure you purchase the appropriate trim pieces along with your flooring. This prevents delays caused by returning to the store for additional materials and ensures color matching from the same manufacturing lot.

Installing these trim pieces represents the final step in your flooring project and makes the critical difference between an amateur-looking installation and a professionally finished result. Taking the time to select and properly install the appropriate trim for each transition ensures your Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring looks polished and intentional throughout your space.

Installation Methods: Understanding Your Options

The installation method you choose for Style Selections Natural Hickory significantly impacts both the installation process and the long-term performance of your flooring. This laminate is designed primarily for floating floor installation, but understanding the specifics and alternatives is important for making informed decisions.

Floating Floor Installation (Click-Lock)

The most common and recommended installation method for Style Selections Natural Hickory is the floating floor approach using its engineered click-lock system. With this method:

• Planks connect to each other rather than to the subfloor
• The entire floor “floats” over the underlayment
• No adhesives or mechanical fasteners are required
• The interconnected planks move slightly as a single unit with humidity changes

This installation method offers several advantages:

1. DIY-friendly: The click-lock design makes installation accessible to homeowners with basic skills.
2. Quicker installation: Without glue dry time or nail placement, installation proceeds more rapidly.
3. No damage to subfloor: Since nothing attaches to the subfloor, it remains intact for future flooring options.
4. Accommodation for movement: The floating design allows for natural expansion and contraction with humidity changes.

Glue-Down Alternative

While less common, some installers opt for a glue-down approach for Style Selections Natural Hickory in certain situations:

• Areas with dramatic temperature fluctuations
• Very large, open spaces where excessive movement might occur
• Situations where transitions would be visually disruptive

If considering this method, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure it won’t void your warranty, as many laminate products are specifically designed for floating installation only. The adhesive must be compatible with laminate flooring and typically requires a specialized laminate floor adhesive rather than general construction adhesive.

What About Nail-Down?

Unlike hardwood flooring, Style Selections Natural Hickory laminate is not designed for nail-down installation. The HDF core material doesn’t hold nails effectively, and penetrating the surface compromises the moisture resistance of the planks. Attempting a nail-down installation will likely damage the flooring and void the warranty.

Choosing the Right Method

For most residential applications of Style Selections Natural Hickory, the floating floor installation using the manufacturer’s click-lock system represents the optimal choice. This method:

• Preserves the warranty coverage
• Works with the engineered design of the product
• Accommodates natural movement
• Provides the ease of installation that makes laminate an attractive option

Regardless of which method you choose, proper subfloor preparation remains essential. The subfloor must be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound to provide the foundation for successful installation and long-term performance.

Conclusion: Is Style Selections Natural Hickory Right for Your Home?

After exploring the many aspects of Style Selections Natural Hickory flooring—from its composition and features to installation methods and maintenance requirements—we arrive at the essential question: Is this the right flooring choice for your home?

Style Selections Natural Hickory offers an impressive balance of authentic wood aesthetics, practical durability, and budget-friendly pricing that makes it suitable for many homeowners. Its realistic appearance captures the warmth and character of genuine hickory while its engineered construction provides advantages in terms of consistency, maintenance, and resistance to many common household challenges.

This flooring shines particularly bright in:

• Family homes with children and pets, where its scratch resistance and easy maintenance simplify daily life
• Living areas, dining rooms, and bedrooms where its warm, natural appearance creates an inviting atmosphere
• DIY renovation projects where accessible installation and attractive price point stretch remodeling budgets
• Homes where genuine hardwood might struggle with humidity fluctuations or intense sunlight

However, it may be less ideal for:

• Areas with frequent water exposure like full bathrooms or laundry rooms
• Spaces where authentic hardwood is specifically desired for historical authenticity or resale value
• Applications requiring extremely low maintenance or truly waterproof performance

Your specific priorities, lifestyle needs, and budget will ultimately determine whether Style Selections Natural Hickory represents the right balance for your home. The good news is that this product offers impressive versatility that adapts well to a wide range of households and design aesthetics.

As with any significant home improvement decision, I recommend:

1. Viewing the flooring in person at a Lowe’s showroom to assess its appearance under lighting similar to your home
2. Taking home samples to see how they look in your specific space alongside your furniture and decor
3. Reading recent reviews from other homeowners with similar needs and applications
4. Considering your long-term plans for the space and how this flooring aligns with those goals

Whether you’re renovating a single room or transforming your entire home, flooring represents one of the most impactful design choices you’ll make. Style Selections Natural Hickory offers an appealing combination of beauty, performance, and value that deserves serious consideration in your decision-making process.