When homeowners search for Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech, they want a clear answer, not marketing noise. Both lines are waterproof, durable, and designed for busy homes, yet they are built differently and feel different underfoot. This guide walks through those differences step by step so you can choose the floor that truly fits your rooms, budget, and long-term plans.
In the sections below, you will see how PureTech and SolidTech compare in core construction, durability, comfort, sustainability, price, and best uses. Along the way, you will also find simple recommendations and links to shop each collection at Floor City.

What Is Mohawk PureTech?
Mohawk PureTech is a next-generation rigid core floor that uses a PVC-free mineral core instead of traditional vinyl. Because of this construction, it appeals to homeowners who want waterproof performance with a lower-plastic story and high-end visuals. At the same time, it is engineered to be tough enough for real family life.
Instead of focusing only on durability, PureTech balances performance with design and sustainability. As a result, it often feels more premium and intentional in whole-home projects.
Key Features of Mohawk PureTech
- PVC-free mineral core: Reduces reliance on traditional vinyl while still delivering rigid core stability.
- Waterproof construction: Built to handle everyday spills and moisture when installed correctly.
- High scratch resistance: Designed for homes with active kids, pets, and frequent traffic.
- Improved dimensional stability: Mineral core helps limit expansion and contraction.
- Realistic wood visuals: Matte finishes and detailed grain patterns for a natural look.
- Sustainability focus: Ideal for buyers who consider material content part of the decision.
Who Is Mohawk PureTech Best For?
PureTech is a strong fit for homeowners who care about both appearance and material choice. In particular, it works well when you want one floor to run through key living spaces.
- Eco-conscious homeowners who want a PVC-free core.
- Design-driven projects where visuals and texture matter.
- Families planning a long-term remodel instead of a quick refresh.
- Anyone who wants a waterproof floor that still feels warm and comfortable.
To explore styles, colors, and plank sizes, you can start here: Shop Mohawk PureTech Flooring →
What Is Mohawk SolidTech?
Mohawk SolidTech is a vinyl-based rigid core luxury vinyl plank (LVP) line engineered for rugged, waterproof performance. Unlike many basic vinyl floors, SolidTech uses a reinforced vinyl core and upgraded wear layer. Because of that, it is popular with households that want a tough, low-maintenance floor at a wide range of price points.
Instead of emphasizing material change, SolidTech focuses on reliable vinyl performance. It is designed to take daily abuse without feeling fragile.
Key Features of Mohawk SolidTech
- Rigid vinyl core: Helps resist dents, impressions, and subfloor irregularities.
- Fully waterproof design: Suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms when installed correctly.
- Enhanced wear layer: Provides better scratch resistance than many entry-level vinyl products.
- Stable performance: Built to handle normal temperature swings in active homes.
- Wide style range: Multiple collections with different looks and price tiers.
- Family-friendly construction: Easy to clean and comfortable for everyday use.
Who Is Mohawk SolidTech Best For?
SolidTech works especially well when durability and practicality are at the top of your list. It is often chosen for spaces that see constant use or need extra protection.
- Homes with kids, pets, or frequent visitors.
- Kitchens, hallways, and other heavy-traffic areas.
- Basements or lower levels where moisture is a concern.
- Rental properties and investment homes that need tougher surfaces.
You can compare colors, thicknesses, and wear layers here: Shop Mohawk SolidTech Vinyl Flooring →
For a closer look at how it stacks up to standard vinyl plank, you may also like: Mohawk SolidTech vs LVP: A Complete Homeowner’s Guide →
Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech: Side-by-Side Comparison
Before you dive into details, it helps to see the big picture. The table below highlights how Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech compare on core features that matter most to homeowners.
| Feature | Mohawk PureTech | Mohawk SolidTech |
|---|---|---|
| Core Type | PVC-free mineral core | Reinforced rigid vinyl core |
| Waterproof Performance | Waterproof when installed correctly | Waterproof when installed correctly |
| Scratch Resistance | High scratch resistance for active homes | Enhanced scratch resistance for pets and kids |
| Dent Resistance | Very good dent resistance with stable core | Excellent dent resistance from rigid vinyl core |
| Sustainability Story | PVC-free construction appeals to eco-conscious buyers | Vinyl-based; focus is on toughness and value |
| Comfort and Sound | Warm feel and often quieter underfoot | Solid, supportive feel; sound varies by product and pad |
| Style Realism | High-end visuals with matte finishes | Realistic wood looks with strong detail |
| Best Use Cases | Main living areas, bedrooms, design-forward spaces | Kitchens, basements, rentals, busy family rooms |
| Typical Price Range | Generally mid to upper price range | Typically mid-range, with some higher-end lines |
| Ideal Buyer | Homeowners who value PVC-free construction and design | Homeowners who prioritize rugged waterproof vinyl performance |
Which Is More Waterproof: PureTech or SolidTech?
Both Mohawk PureTech and Mohawk SolidTech are designed as waterproof floors when installed correctly. That means everyday spills, tracked-in moisture, and routine cleaning should not damage the core or cause the planks to swell.
Because both are built for wet-area performance, waterproofing is not usually the deciding factor between them. Instead, most homeowners choose based on core material, comfort, sustainability, and budget. In other words, you can safely plan either product for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and entryways as long as the subfloor is prepared and moisture is controlled.
Which Is More Durable in Real Homes?
Durability can mean different things: resistance to scratches, ability to avoid dents, or how well a floor looks after years of use. Both PureTech and SolidTech target high performance, yet they do it in slightly different ways.
Scratch Resistance: How Do They Compare?
Both lines use tough wear layers that are meant to handle daily scuffs. Because of this, they are suitable for homes with pets or children. Specific scratch performance comes down to the wear layer thickness and product line rather than the brand name alone. When you compare individual styles, it helps to look at the wear layer number, not just the collection label.
Dent Resistance: Which Holds Up Better?
Mohawk SolidTech has a strong reputation for dent resistance thanks to its rigid vinyl core. Heavy furniture, appliances, and rolling loads often perform well on this type of construction. PureTech, however, is not far behind. Its mineral core also provides very good resistance to impressions, especially when the subfloor is flat and stable.
Long-Term Wear and Aging
With proper installation and care, both Mohawk PureTech and Mohawk SolidTech can offer long service lives in residential settings. Over time, long-term appearance will depend on basic habits: using felt pads, placing entry mats, cleaning up spills, and following manufacturer cleaning guidelines.
Which Feels Better Underfoot?
Comfort and sound are easy to overlook at first, but they matter a lot when you install the same floor throughout your home. Here is how PureTech and SolidTech usually feel in day-to-day use.
How Mohawk PureTech Feels
- Often feels slightly warmer and softer underfoot compared to some rigid vinyl floors.
- Pairs well with underlayment to reduce sound between levels.
- Works nicely in bedrooms, living rooms, and spaces where you may walk barefoot.
How Mohawk SolidTech Feels
- Has a solid, supportive feel thanks to the rigid vinyl core.
- Sound levels depend on product thickness, attached pad, and underlayment choice.
- Feels secure in high-traffic zones where stability is more important than softness.
Which Is Better for Homes With Pets and Kids?
Families often compare Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech with pets and children in mind. Fortunately, both lines are built with real-life messes and movement in mind.
Performance in Busy Family Homes
- Spills and accidents: Both options are waterproof when installed correctly, so routine accidents can be wiped up without panic.
- Scratches and scuffs: Each line uses a durable wear layer designed to handle claws, toys, and chair movement.
- Everyday cleaning: Regular sweeping or vacuuming plus occasional damp mopping usually keeps either floor looking fresh.
Because both PureTech and SolidTech are tough enough for daily family life, the better choice usually comes down to whether you prefer a PVC-free mineral core or a proven vinyl-based rigid core with a long track record.
Which Is Better Environmentally?
If environmental impact and material content are key priorities, Mohawk PureTech generally has the edge. Its PVC-free mineral core is designed to reduce reliance on traditional vinyl. For many homeowners, that difference makes PureTech feel like a more forward-looking choice.
SolidTech, by contrast, uses a vinyl-based core. It is still a practical, long-lasting option, yet it does not share the same PVC-free story. Because of this, buyers who are actively trying to reduce plastic content in their home often lean toward PureTech when the budget allows.
Installation Differences Between PureTech and SolidTech
On paper, installation for Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech looks very similar. Even so, it is worth highlighting a few points that can influence your project timeline and cost.
Installation Methods
- Floating click-lock: Many styles in both lines use a click-lock system that floats over the subfloor.
- Glue-down options: Some products may be suited for glue-down installation; always check the specifications.
- Subfloor requirements: Both floors perform best over flat, dry, and clean subfloors.
- Professional installation: Often recommended for larger or more complex layouts to ensure long-term stability.
What to Discuss With Your Installer
Before installation begins, it helps to ask about moisture testing, subfloor preparation, transition strips, and stair details. Having this conversation early can prevent surprises and protect your flooring warranty.
Price: Mohawk PureTech vs Mohawk SolidTech
Exact pricing always depends on the specific product, thickness, and wear layer. However, general patterns still help set expectations.
| Product Line | Typical Residential Price Position |
|---|---|
| Mohawk PureTech | Usually mid to upper price range for rigid core flooring |
| Mohawk SolidTech | Typically mid-range, with some higher-end collections |
Because PureTech is PVC-free and design-focused, it often sits slightly higher than comparable SolidTech products. Even so, there can be overlap, especially when you compare premium SolidTech collections with entry-level PureTech options. Checking current pricing on Floor City is the best way to see where your preferred style lands.
Which Should You Choose: PureTech or SolidTech?
Choosing between Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech becomes much easier when you anchor the decision to clear priorities. Instead of asking which floor is “better” in general, it helps to ask which one is better for your home and your goals.
Choose Mohawk PureTech If You Want:
- A PVC-free mineral core floor with a strong sustainability story.
- High-end visuals that look at home in design-forward spaces.
- A comfortable, often quieter floor for bedrooms and main living areas.
- A long-term upgrade for a home you plan to stay in.
Choose Mohawk SolidTech If You Want:
- A rugged, waterproof vinyl floor that can handle heavy daily use.
- Excellent dent resistance, especially under furniture and appliances.
- A wide range of price points suitable for rentals and family homes.
- A proven vinyl-based solution for basements, kitchens, and hallways.
Best Mohawk PureTech and SolidTech Collections to Explore
Once you know which line fits your priorities, the next step is choosing a specific collection. Each tier offers a different mix of visuals and performance features.
Popular Mohawk PureTech Collections
- PureTech Select: PVC-free performance with versatile, easy-to-style designs.
- PureTech Plus: Enhanced visuals and features for homeowners who want a more premium look and feel.
Popular Mohawk SolidTech Collections
- SolidTech Essentials: Practical waterproof vinyl for value-driven projects.
- SolidTech Plus: Thicker construction and upgraded durability for busy households.
- SolidTech Premier: Mohawk’s most advanced SolidTech visuals and performance features.
You can start comparing plank sizes, textures, and colors here:
- Shop Mohawk PureTech Flooring →
- Shop Mohawk SolidTech Vinyl Flooring →
- Visit the Mohawk Flooring Brand Hub →
FAQs: Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech
Is Mohawk PureTech more durable than SolidTech?
Both floors are designed for active homes, but they use different core constructions. PureTech relies on a PVC-free mineral core, while SolidTech uses a reinforced vinyl core. In practice, durability depends on the exact product, wear layer, and how the floor is used rather than the line name alone.
Is Mohawk PureTech really PVC-free?
Yes. PureTech is built with a PVC-free mineral core, which sets it apart from traditional vinyl-based rigid core floors and makes it appealing to homeowners who want to reduce plastic content in their home.
Is Mohawk SolidTech less expensive than PureTech?
Often, SolidTech falls into a mid-range price category, while PureTech tends to sit in the mid to upper range. However, there can be overlap, so checking specific products on Floor City is the best way to compare actual pricing.
Which is better for basements: PureTech or SolidTech?
Both lines can work well in basements when the subfloor is dry, flat, and properly prepared. SolidTech is a popular choice for lower levels because of its rugged vinyl core, while PureTech may appeal more when sustainability and comfort are equally important.
Which has better scratch protection: Mohawk PureTech or Mohawk SolidTech?
Each line uses a durable wear layer designed to handle scratches from pets and daily activity. Scratch performance is influenced most by wear layer thickness and specific construction, so it is wise to compare individual product specifications within each collection.
Which floor lasts longer: Mohawk PureTech or Mohawk SolidTech?
With proper installation and care, both floors can offer long service lives in residential settings. Longevity depends on factors such as wear layer, traffic levels, maintenance, and whether the floor is used within its intended environment.
Can I mix Mohawk PureTech and SolidTech in the same home?
Yes. Some homeowners choose PureTech for main living areas and bedrooms, then use SolidTech in basements, rentals, or high-traffic secondary spaces. This approach lets you tailor the floor to each room’s needs while staying within the Mohawk family.
Final Verdict: Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech
Mohawk PureTech is usually the better choice when you want a PVC-free, design-forward floor with a strong sustainability story. It fits especially well in living rooms, bedrooms, and open-concept spaces where style and comfort matter as much as performance.
Mohawk SolidTech is often the smarter pick when you need a rugged, waterproof vinyl floor at a flexible price point. It excels in kitchens, basements, hallways, and rentals where durability, dent resistance, and easy maintenance are top priorities.
If you are still weighing Mohawk PureTech vs SolidTech for your home, Floor City’s team can help you compare products, review room-by-room needs, and estimate total project costs before you order.
Shop Mohawk PureTech and SolidTech at Floor City
Ready to start planning your project? Explore both lines and find the right fit here:

























