When considering vinyl plank flooring options from Costco, Golden Arowana and Mohawk Home are the most popular choices. I’ve used both of them for years and know which one is better. But to confirm it, I made some simple tests to compare their scratch resistance and durability.
Scratch Resistance
Golden Arowana boasts a slightly thicker wear layer at 22 mil compared to Mohawk Home’s 20 mil, which theoretically should give it an edge in scratch resistance. To test this, I used a screwdriver, scissors, and a utility knife to simulate real-world wear and tear.
Surprisingly, despite the thicker wear layer, Golden Arowana did not significantly outperform Mohawk Home. In fact, I found that Mohawk Home seemed slightly more resistant to scratches. While both products exhibited minor surface damage from the tools, the scratches on the Golden Arowana planks appeared more pronounced under close inspection. This result suggests that factors beyond wear layer thickness, such as material composition or surface coating, might contribute to scratch resistance.
Durability Test
To assess durability, I tested how well the planks held up when installed on an uneven floor. Using a hammer, I applied force to the joints between three connected planks to simulate the stress of daily use on less-than-ideal subfloor conditions.
Under pressure, the joints on both flooring options broke. However, the extent of the damage differed significantly:
- Mohawk Home: The damage was localized to the immediate area around the joint. This meant that while the affected planks needed replacement, the surrounding planks remained intact. This localized damage made repairs more manageable.
- Golden Arowana: The damage extended to multiple areas, with cracks spreading along the edges. This widespread failure made repairs more challenging, as multiple planks had to be replaced to restore the flooring.
Conclusion
Both products are solid choices, offering the benefits of vinyl plank flooring such as water resistance and easy maintenance. However, for those prioritizing scratch resistance and ease of repair, Mohawk Home might be the better option. Before making your decision, consider your specific needs. If your floor is uneven or likely to face heavy stress, Mohawk Home’s ability to localize damage might save you time and money on repairs.
