By Yaletown Floor · Published September 17, 2026 · 7 min read
COREtec helped create the rigid-core waterproof plank category, and its floors still do one thing better than most: they arrive with cork underlay already bonded to the back. That means no separate underlay to buy, a quieter floor underfoot, and one less thing for an installer to get wrong. This guide covers the four collections we stock and how to choose between them.
1. What is inside a COREtec plank
- Waterproof foamed core: the plank will not swell or warp from water, which is why COREtec turns up in kitchens, basements, laundry rooms and lake houses.
- Attached cork underlay: bonded to the back of every plank we stock. It quietens footsteps, adds a little warmth, and removes the separate underlay step.
- UV acrylic finish: the surface coat that handles daily scuffing and makes cleaning easier.
- Rigid construction: the plank bridges minor subfloor imperfections better than flexible vinyl, so prep is usually lighter.
2. The collections we stock
| Collection | Width | Wear layer | Coverage / box | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Originals Classics | 6" | 12 mil | 31.51 sq ft | Bedrooms, guest rooms, budget-conscious whole floors |
| Originals Enhanced | 7" | 20 mil | 23.64 sq ft | Busy family homes, kitchens, rentals |
| Originals Premium | 9" | 30 mil | 20.67 sq ft | Wide-plank look, heavy traffic, light commercial |
| COREtec Tile | 18" tile | 30 mil | 18.51 sq ft | Stone-look floors in bathrooms, entries and laundry |
The pattern is simple: as you move from Classics to Premium, planks get wider and the wear layer gets thicker, so the floor handles more traffic. The Tile collection brings the same waterproof core to an 18" stone-look format, which avoids grout lines and the cold feel of ceramic.
3. Choosing a wear layer
The wear layer decides how the floor ages, far more than total thickness:
- 12 mil (Classics): fine for bedrooms, guest rooms and low-traffic spaces.
- 20 mil (Enhanced): the safe choice for a family home with kids and pets.
- 30 mil (Premium and Tile): commercial grade, for entryways, offices and rooms with rolling chairs.
4. Installation notes
- Float or glue: the collections we carry are rated for direct glue or floating installation.
- No extra underlay: the cork is already there. Adding a second pad lets the floor flex and can affect the warranty.
- Over concrete: check slab moisture and flatness first; the rigid core handles minor dips but not slopes.
- Condos: the attached cork helps with sound, and most buildings will accept the assembly. Confirm the IIC requirement with your strata or condo board first.
- Expansion gap: leave the gap the installation guide specifies at every wall on floating installs.
5. Pricing
COREtec is a call-for-pricing brand on our site. Send us the collection, colour and square footage, or call 1 (604) 558-2195, and we will quote it with a delivery estimate. COREtec is also stocked in Ontario as well as British Columbia, so GTA orders usually ship from within the province.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Classics, Enhanced and Premium?
Width and wear layer: 6" at 12 mil, 7" at 20 mil and 9" at 30 mil respectively.
Does COREtec need underlay?
No, cork underlay is bonded to every plank. Do not add a second layer.
Is COREtec waterproof?
Yes, the plank has a waterproof foamed core. Seal the perimeter in full bathrooms so water cannot get under the floor.
Can COREtec be glued down?
Yes, the collections we carry are rated for direct glue or floating.
How much does COREtec cost?
It is call-for-pricing; contact us with the collection and square footage for a quote.
Want a COREtec quote? Send the collection, colour and square footage and we will price it and ship samples.
