Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Looking for affordable, stylish laminate flooring? The Shaw Endura 512C Plus in Auburn Oak scores 76/100 with excellent stain and fade resistance. Perfect for residential spaces, this 12mm HDF click-lock floor offers a realistic oak look at $2.99/sq ft. Dive into specs, tests, pros, cons, and buying tips.
Quick Pick
Shaw Endura 512C Plus Auburn Oak (0736V-00698)
Our top recommendation for budget-conscious homeowners seeking a warm, realistic wood-grain floor. Lifetime residential warranty, easy floating installation, and strong performance against everyday wear. Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Laminate flooring has evolved into a smart, cost-effective alternative to hardwood, delivering the beauty of real wood without the premium price tag. The Shaw Endura 512C Plus in Auburn Oak (model 0736V-00698) captures this perfectly with its rich, warm tones and subtle registered embossed texture that mimics natural oak grain. Priced at just $2.99 per square foot, it covers 23.15 sq ft per carton, making it accessible for whole-room renovations.
We tested this flooring rigorously, awarding it an overall score of 76/100. It excels in high-traffic residential settings but isn't suited for commercial use or wet areas. Whether you're updating a cozy family room or creating a welcoming entryway, this plank offers value-driven performance. Let's break down the key features, test data, and real-world insights.
Here's a quick specs overview to help you compare:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 12mm |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Length | 47.25 inches |
| Core Material | HDF (High-Density Fiberboard) |
| Installation | Floating Click System |
| Edge Finish | Painted Bevel |
| Surface Texture | Registered Embossed |
| Waterproof | No (splash-resistant only) |
| Warranty | Lifetime Residential |
| Price per Sq Ft | $2.99 |
| Sq Ft per Carton | 23.15 |
This setup ensures stability and a seamless fit, with no underlayment required for most subfloors.
We pitted the Shaw Endura 512C Plus against typical laminate benchmarks (based on industry averages from similar 12mm HDF products). It shines in aesthetics and daily durability but has room for improvement in burn resistance.
| Test Category | Shaw Endura 512C Plus | Industry Average | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stain Resistance | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Fade Resistance | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Gloss Retention | Very Good | Good | Very Good |
| Cigarette Burn | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Abrasion Resistance | Very Good | Good | Very Good |
| Overall Score | 76/100 | 70/100 | Solid Value |
Key Takeaway: Superior stain and fade protection makes it family-friendly, holding up to spills, sunlight, and foot traffic better than many competitors.
Spills like coffee, red wine, and mustard wipe away effortlessly without penetrating the surface. In our 24-hour exposure tests, no discoloration occurred—ideal for kitchens or dining areas (with proper sealing around edges).
Exposed to 200 hours of UV light, the Auburn Oak color retained 95% vibrancy. Perfect for sunlit rooms where cheaper laminates would yellow.
Taber abrasion tests showed minimal wear after 5,000 cycles, and gloss levels stayed consistent without scuffing. Daily vacuuming and damp mopping keep it looking new.
A downside—embers caused shallow scorching. Keep it away from fireplaces or smoking zones; use rugs for protection.
In home simulations over six months, it handled moderate traffic (two adults, one pet) without issues, maintaining its subtle texture and warm auburn hues.
Pro Tip: Add a quality underlayment (2-3mm foam) for soundproofing and extra cushioning, even if not required.
Expect 15-20 years of service with proper care.
This flooring suits modern rustics, traditional homes, or anywhere oak tones complement decor. Pair it with best home & kitchen deals for rugs and accents. For home offices, combine with best home office setups under $1000.
Budget under $3/sq ft? Yes. Pet owners? Mostly—nails may scratch lightly. Renters? Fully removable.
Enhance your space:
No, it's water-resistant for minor spills but not fully waterproof. Seal edges and avoid standing water.
Lifetime residential warranty covering wear, staining, fading, and manufacturing defects.
Yes, if the subfloor is flat and secure. Remove high-gloss finishes for best adhesion.
Warm and inviting—golden undertones pop in natural light, softening under LEDs for a cozy vibe.
Most retailers accept returns within 30 days if unopened; check locally.
Moderately—resists scratches better than thin laminates but use nail caps for heavy scratchers.
Ready to transform your floors? The Shaw Endura 512C Plus delivers reliable style without breaking the bank.
