Why Longer Planks Mean Better Floors: The Science Behind CALI Mavericks

The Visual Advantage: Fewer Seams = More Cohesive Spaces

Every time two planks meet end-to-end, you get a seam. With standard 48-inch planks in a 15-foot-wide room, you're looking at 3-4 end seams per row. With Mavericks' 86-inch planks, that drops to 2 seams per row.

That might not sound like much, but across an entire floor, it's the difference between 30+ visible seams and fewer than 20. The result? A cleaner, more continuous look that makes rooms feel larger and more open.

This matters most in:

• Open-concept living spaces where uninterrupted flow is critical
• Long hallways that benefit from fewer visual breaks
• Large kitchens where you want a seamless, high-end appearance
• Basements being finished as primary living areas

CALI Mavericks - Half Moon Oak

86-5/8" Extra-Long Planks

Natural matte finish with authentic oak grain and pressed bevels. AC4 scratch resistance with 100% waterproof core.

View Half Moon Oak →

The Performance Advantage: Fewer Joints = Better Moisture Protection

While CALI Mavericks is already 100% waterproof thanks to its high-density core, plank length still impacts moisture performance. Here's why:

End joints (where planks meet) are the most vulnerable points in any floating floor. Even with waterproof cores and locking systems, these junctions experience the most stress during expansion and contraction cycles. Fewer end joints means fewer potential weak points.

In high-moisture environments like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements, reducing the number of end joints by 30-40% isn't just cosmetic—it's a measurable improvement in long-term durability.

What Makes Mavericks Waterproof?

Mavericks uses a high-density fiberboard core that won't swell, warp, or degrade when exposed to moisture. Combined with a 72-hour waterproof warranty, this floor can handle:

• Kitchen spills and splashes
• Bathroom humidity and occasional standing water
• Pet accidents (yes, really)
• Basement moisture from concrete slabs
• Steam mopping for easy cleaning

And because the planks are so long, you're installing fewer pieces overall—which means faster installation and fewer opportunities for installation errors.

The Structural Advantage: Longer Planks = More Stability

Longer planks distribute weight more evenly across the floor. This reduces the chance of individual planks "cupping" or shifting over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

Think of it like this: a longer plank is inherently more stable because it spans more of the subfloor. Short planks can flex or shift independently, creating subtle unevenness over time. Longer planks lock together across a larger area, reducing movement and improving overall rigidity.

This is especially important for:

• Homes with pets or kids where floors take a beating
• High-traffic zones like entryways and kitchens
• Installations over slightly uneven subfloors (within manufacturer specs)

The Built-In Comfort You Don't See

Every Mavericks plank comes with attached acoustic padding. This isn't just about sound reduction (though it does make the floor quieter underfoot). The padding also provides:

• A softer, more cushioned feel compared to bare laminate
• Better thermal insulation (warmer on cold mornings)
• Minor subfloor imperfection forgiveness
• Reduced hollow "clicky" sound common in cheaper laminates

And because the padding is pre-attached, you save time and money on installation—no need to buy, roll out, and tape down separate underlayment.

Available Mavericks Colors

Mocha Del Mar

Rich brown with natural oak character

View Mocha Del Mar →

Harbor Honey

Warm honey tones with subtle grain

View Harbor Honey →

When Longer ISN'T Better

Let's be honest: extra-long planks aren't ideal for every situation. If you're installing in small rooms (bedrooms, bathrooms under 100 sq ft), you'll spend more time cutting planks to fit than you would with standard lengths.

Longer planks also amplify installation errors. If your walls aren't straight or your cuts aren't perfectly square, those imperfections become more visible with 7-foot planks than with 4-foot ones.

Skip Mavericks if:

• You're doing a DIY install in small, complex spaces
• Your walls are noticeably out of square
• You want maximum color variety (Mavericks is a smaller collection)

Choose Mavericks if:

• You're installing in large, open rooms (500+ sq ft)
• You want the cleanest, most premium look possible
• You need waterproof + scratch-resistant performance
• You're hiring a professional installer