Mohawk vs Shaw: Which Commercial Flooring is Right for You?
The two giants of the industry face off. We break down the pros, cons, and best use cases for your business.
If you are specifying flooring for a commercial project in Los Angeles or Orange County, you will almost certainly considerMohawk GroupandShaw Contract. Combined, they control a massive share of the market. But which one fits your specific needs?
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Mohawk Group | Shaw Contract |
|---|---|---|
| Best Known For | Durability & Stain Resistance | Design & Sustainability |
| Carpet Technology | Duracolor Fiber | EcoWorx Backing |
| LVT Strengths | Rigid Core Performance | Acoustic Properties |
| Sustainability | Living Product Challenge | Cradle to Cradle |
| Price Point | $ - $$ | $ - $$ |
Product Categories Comparison
Carpet Tile
Shaw is widely considered the leader in modular carpet tile design, often setting the aesthetic trends for corporate America. Mohawk fights back with superior fiber technology, focusing on permanent stain resistance that doesn't wash off.
Resilient (LVT/LVP)
Both offer exceptional commercial LVT. Mohawk's resilient lines are often praised for their impact resistance in heavy-traffic retail. Shaw's resilient flooring frequently integrates better with their carpet products for seamless transitions.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Mohawk If...
- • Stain resistance is your #1 priority (e.g., schools, cafeterias).
- • You need extreme durability for heavy rolling loads.
- • You are looking for a slightly more budget-conscious heavy-duty option.
Choose Shaw If...
- • Design and aesthetics are paramount (e.g., law firms, ad agencies).
- • Sustainability/Cradle-to-Cradle is a project requirement.
- • You need advanced acoustic backing options included standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mohawk cheaper than Shaw?
Generally, Mohawk offers more budget-friendly entry-level options, while Shaw Contract focuses heavily on premium specifications. However, both have wide price ranges.
Which is better for office carpet?
Shaw is often preferred for modular carpet tiles due to their EcoWorx backing system, but Mohawk's Duracolor fiber offers superior stain resistance for high-traffic zones.
Do both brands offer sustainable flooring?
Yes. Shaw is famous for Cradle to Cradle certification, while Mohawk leads with GreenGuard Gold and Living Product Challenge certifications.