I’m thrilled to share my experience with Southwind Flooring—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to upgrade their home’s style and function.
Whether you’re renovating your cozy living room or tackling a full-home makeover, Southwind’s diverse range of carpets, hardwood, laminate, and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring offers something for everyone.
Its blend of quality, affordability, and eco-conscious design makes it a standout choice. Trust me, once you see how Southwind transforms your space, you’ll wonder why you didn’t choose it sooner. Let’s explore why this flooring is worth every penny.
My Journey With Southwind Flooring
When I decided to redo the floors in my home, I was overwhelmed by the options out there. Hardwood? Carpet? Vinyl? I wanted something durable, stylish, and budget-friendly, but I wasn’t sure where to start. That’s when I stumbled across Southwind Flooring at a local home improvement store.
The display caught my eye—sleek luxury vinyl planks that looked like real hardwood and plush carpets that screamed comfort. I ended up choosing their Harbor Plank LVP for my living room and kitchen and a soft, neutral carpet for the bedrooms.
The installation process was a breeze. I’m no DIY expert, but the click-and-lock system on the LVP made it manageable even for a novice like me. I hired a professional for the carpet, and they were done in a day. What struck me first was how real the vinyl looked—guests still can’t believe it’s not hardwood!
The texture, the grain, it’s spot-on. In the bedrooms, the carpet feels like walking on a cloud, and it’s held up beautifully against my dog’s enthusiastic zoomies. After six months, I’m still obsessed with how these floors have elevated my home’s vibe.
The durability is no joke either—spills in the kitchen wipe up easily, and the carpet hasn’t shown any wear despite daily foot traffic. My experience has been nothing short of fantastic, and I’m excited to break down why Southwind has won me over.
The Pros of Southwind Flooring
- Unmatched Variety for Every Taste
One of the first things I noticed about Southwind is their massive range of products.
Whether you’re into the classic charm of hardwood, the cozy feel of carpet, or the modern versatility of LVP, they’ve got you covered.
I went with the Harbor Plank LVP for its wood-like aesthetic, but I was tempted by their hardwood options for that timeless elegance.
Their carpets come in so many textures and colors, from plush to berber, that I spent hours debating between shades for my bedrooms. Whatever your style—rustic, modern, or somewhere in between—Southwind has an option that’ll make your space pop.
- Budget-Friendly Without Skimping on Quality
Let’s talk money. Flooring can be a wallet-drainer, but Southwind strikes a balance that I found refreshing. Their Harbor Plank LVP was significantly cheaper than hardwood, yet it looks just as luxurious.
The carpets I chose were also reasonably priced compared to some high-end brands I looked at, but they didn’t feel like a compromise. The materials are top-notch—my LVP has a thick wear layer that shrugs off scratches, and the carpet fibers are tough yet soft. You’re getting premium quality without the premium price tag, which is a win in my book.
- Durability That Handles Real Life
Life in my house is chaotic—think kids, pets, and the occasional wine spill. Southwind’s flooring is built to take a beating. The LVP in my kitchen and living room is waterproof, which is a lifesaver when my toddler decides to “help” with dishwashing.
I’ve dropped pans, spilled coffee, and even had a muddy paw incident, and the floors still look pristine. The carpet in my bedrooms is just as tough. My dog’s claws haven’t caused any snags, and vacuuming keeps it looking fresh. Southwind’s durability means I’m not constantly stressing about messes.
- Eco-Friendly Vibes
I’m no environmental guru, but I appreciate companies that care about the planet. Southwind’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices impressed me. They use eco-friendly materials and processes, which means I can feel good about my choice without sacrificing style or quality.
Their hardwood comes from responsibly managed forests, and their LVP and carpets incorporate recycled materials where possible. It’s nice to know my floors are helping, not hurting, the environment.
- Innovative Designs That Wow
Southwind doesn’t just follow trends—they set them. The realistic wood and stone textures on their LVP had me doing a double-take. My Harbor Plank floors have a grain pattern so convincing that friends have asked what kind of wood I used.
Their carpets also come in bold patterns and subtle neutrals, letting you play with design in a way that feels personal. I love how Southwind’s innovative approach lets me express my style without breaking the bank.
The Not-So-Good Parts of Southwind Flooring
- Limited Availability Can Be a Hassle
One frustration I ran into was finding Southwind products.
They’re not as widely available as bigger names like Shaw or Mohawk.
I had to hunt down a local retailer, and not every store carried the full range.
If you’re in a smaller town, you might need to order online or drive to a specialty store, which can add time and hassle to your project. I got lucky with a nearby supplier, but it’s something to keep in mind if convenience is a priority.
- LVP Fading in Sunlight
While I love my Harbor Plank LVP, I noticed a slight downside: it can fade under prolonged direct sunlight. My living room gets a lot of natural light, and I’ve seen a bit of color softening in high-exposure areas.
It’s not drastic, but it’s noticeable if you’re looking for it. I’ve added some curtains to mitigate this, but if your space is a sun magnet, you might need to plan for extra window treatments or area rugs to protect your floors.
- Repairs Can Be Tricky
The durability of Southwind’s LVP is fantastic, but if you do get a damaged plank, fixing it isn’t always straightforward. The click-and-lock system means you might need to replace an entire section rather than just one plank.
I haven’t had to deal with this yet, but I read up on it before buying, and it’s something to consider if you’re in a high-damage environment. Carpets are easier to patch, but major tears might still require professional help.
- Not the Top Choice for Resale Value
If you’re planning to sell your home soon, Southwind might not boost your resale value as much as premium brands like hardwood from Bruce or high-end LVP from COREtec. My realtor friend mentioned that some buyers prefer well-known names for perceived prestige.
Southwind’s quality is excellent, but its brand recognition isn’t on par with the big players, which could affect picky buyers. For me, this wasn’t a dealbreaker since I’m staying put, but it’s worth noting.
Maintenance Tips For Southwind Flooring
- Regular Sweeping and Vacuuming
Dust and dirt are the enemies of any floor. For my LVP, I sweep daily with a soft-bristle broom to prevent scratches from grit. In the bedrooms, I vacuum the carpet weekly using a machine with a beater bar set to the appropriate height for plush piles.
This keeps the fibers fluffed and free of debris. Pro tip: for carpets, use a vacuum with good suction but avoid overly aggressive settings that could pull at the fibers.
- Spill Cleanup for LVP
Spills happen, but Southwind’s LVP makes cleanup a breeze. I wipe up spills immediately with a damp cloth to prevent staining. For tougher messes like grease, I use a mild dish soap solution and a soft sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach—they can dull the finish.
I learned this the hard way when I tried a too-strong cleaner and noticed a slight haze. Stick to gentle cleaners, and your LVP will stay vibrant.
- Carpet Stain Removal
My dog once tracked mud onto the carpet, and I panicked—but Southwind’s carpets are forgiving. For stains, I blot (never rub!) with a clean cloth and a mix of warm water and a carpet-safe cleaner. For stubborn spots,
I use a bit of white vinegar diluted in water. Always test cleaners on a small, hidden area first. Acting fast is key—letting stains sit can make them harder to remove. My carpets still look brand-new thanks to quick action.
- Protecting Against Sun Damage
To prevent fading on my LVP, I invested in UV-blocking window films for my sun-soaked living room. They’re affordable and don’t block light, just harmful rays.
For carpets, I rotate area rugs periodically to ensure even exposure. If you can’t add window treatments, try rearranging furniture to block direct sunlight. This has kept my floors’ colors rich and consistent.
- Annual Deep Cleaning
Once a year, I give my floors a thorough refresh. For LVP, I mop with a manufacturer-recommended cleaner and a microfiber mop to avoid streaks. For carpets, I rent a steam cleaner or hire a professional for a deep clean.
This removes embedded dirt and keeps the pile looking plush. My first deep clean made my bedrooms feel brand-new again, and it’s now a staple in my maintenance routine.
Comparing Southwind To Other Flooring Brands
Choosing the right flooring is like picking the perfect playlist for your home—it’s got to match your vibe and stand up to daily use. I compared Southwind to Kährs Flooring, Stuga Flooring, and Mannington Adura Max Flooring to see how it stacks up. Here’s what I found.
- Southwind Vs. Kährs Flooring
Kährs Flooring is a Swedish brand known for its premium hardwood, and it’s got a reputation for elegance. Their engineered hardwood floors are stunning, with rich grains and finishes that scream luxury.
I was tempted by their oak options, but the price was a gut punch—Kährs can cost two to three times more than Southwind’s LVP or hardwood. Southwind’s Harbor Plank LVP mimics that hardwood look for a fraction of the cost, and it’s waterproof, unlike Kährs, which needs extra care around spills.
Kährs wins for prestige and eco-certifications like FSC, but Southwind’s affordability and low-maintenance durability make it my pick for everyday living.
- Southwind Vs. Stuga Flooring
Stuga Flooring, another Scandinavian-inspired brand, focuses on minimalist, high-quality hardwood with a direct-to-consumer model. Their floors are gorgeous, with a matte finish that feels modern and airy.
However, Stuga’s hardwood is pricier than Southwind’s offerings, and it’s not as forgiving in high-traffic areas. My Southwind LVP shrugs off my dog’s claws and kid’s spills, while Stuga’s hardwood requires regular refinishing to stay pristine.
Stuga’s aesthetic is perfect for Instagram-worthy homes, but Southwind’s versatility across LVP, carpet, and hardwood, plus its budget-friendly price, makes it more practical for my chaotic household.
- Southwind Vs. Mannington Adura Max Flooring
Mannington’s Adura Max is a direct competitor to Southwind’s LVP, boasting a thick wear layer and a HydroLoc waterproof core.
I tested a sample, and the texture is impressive—almost as realistic as Southwind’s Harbor Plank.
However, Adura Max is about 30% more expensive, and I didn’t see enough difference in durability to justify the cost.
Southwind’s LVP is just as tough, with a click-and-lock system that’s DIY-friendly. Mannington offers a few more color options, but Southwind’s range felt plenty diverse for my needs.
If you want a premium LVP with extra soundproofing, Adura Max is great, but Southwind delivers similar quality for less.
Southwind shines for its balance of style, durability, and value. Kährs and Stuga lean toward luxury hardwood, which is gorgeous but pricey and high-maintenance. Mannington’s Adura Max is a strong LVP contender, but Southwind’s lower cost and comparable performance make it my go-to for a practical, stylish home upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Southwind floors are proudly made in the United States. Their manufacturing facilities are spread across the country, ensuring strict quality control and supporting local economies. I love knowing my floors were produced with high standards and sustainable practices right here at home.
The “best” vinyl plank brand depends on your needs, but Southwind’s Harbor Plank is a top contender for its affordability, durability, and realistic design. COREtec offers premium features like cork underlayment, while Shaw’s Floorté is known for luxury. For me, Southwind’s balance of cost and quality makes it a standout.
Absolutely, Southwind’s carpets are fantastic. They’re soft, durable, and come in a wide range of styles. My bedroom carpet has held up against heavy foot traffic and pet antics without fraying or fading. Compared to pricier brands like Mohawk, Southwind offers similar quality at a better price.
Southwind Flooring is part of the Mohawk Industries family, a leading global flooring manufacturer. This acquisition has allowed Southwind to maintain its innovative designs and quality while benefiting from Mohawk’s resources. It’s reassuring to know my floors come from a brand backed by such a powerhouse.
Why Southwind Flooring Is My Top Pick?
After living with Southwind Flooring for months, I’m convinced it’s a stellar choice for any home. Its variety, durability, and eco-friendly ethos make it a standout, all while keeping your budget in check.
Whether you’re sprucing up a single room or your entire house, Southwind delivers style and substance. I can’t recommend it enough—your floors will thank you, and so will your wallet. Go for Southwind, and you’ll see why I’m so obsessed with my new space.