A wearlayer is measured in "mils." A mil is one-thousandth of an inch. It is not the metric measurement of a millimeter(mm). Generally, the number of wear layer "mils" is expected to last the same number in years. A 6 mil wear layer can last 6 years and a 20 mil wear layer can last up to 20 years.
The LVP from Home Deppot is generally a round 4-6 mil wear layer. This is the layer that will stop your dogs nails from scratching the color layer. Commercial grade is 20mil thick. There are plenty of online retailers that sell 20mil residential LVP. I like Mohawk from znet flooring.
Vinyl thicknesses of 4-6mm are more often used in heavy traffic areas of the home, like kitchens, living rooms, and entryways. These thicker layers offer the benefits of enhanced durability, scratch resistance, and reduced wear and tear over time.
Common mistakes like using inappropriate cleaning agents or excessive water can shorten the floor's expected lifespan. In conclusion, with proper selection, installation, and care, your LVP or LVT flooring can serve you well for 10 to 25 years.
While there might be concerns about 5mm Luxury Vinyl Flooring being too thin, its durability depends more on the wear layer than the overall thickness. For example, a 5mm flooring option with a 0.5mm wear layer provides ample durability for most residential applications.
Choosing the Right Thickness for LVP and LVT
For low-traffic areas like bedrooms or home offices, thinner vinyl planks may suffice. But for busy spaces like living rooms or commercial settings, opt for thicker options like 12mm or even 20mm laminate flooring.
If you're laying the LVP over an existing cushion-backed vinyl floor or a below-grade tile floor, you won't need to use an underlayment. However, you'll want to use one in every other application, including covering existing hardwood floors, uncushioned vinyl flooring, and concrete floors.
Cons: LVP Can be Difficult to Remove
LVP floors that use a peel-and-stick or a glue-down method during installation can be difficult to remove due to the strong adhesives they use to attach the vinyl flooring to the subfloor. These adhesives can cause removal to be a labor-intensive process and a time-consuming effort.
For some homeowners, the choice between luxury vinyl and genuine hardwood comes down to a variety of factors including budget, lifestyle, and personal taste. High-end homes may still opt for the timeless appeal of real hardwood in main living areas, while using LVP or LVT in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
As we already mentioned, the SPC core makes the sturdiest and most durable luxury vinyl planks. The rigid core, composed of a mix of limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers, is highly resistant to all kinds of impacts, dents, and scratches. It's common to see SPC core LVP lasting over 20 years!
6-8 mils: Suitable for low traffic residential spaces like bedrooms or guest rooms. 12-20 mils: Ideal for moderate foot traffic areas. Lliving rooms, kitchens, and connecting hallways work well for this wear layer class. 20+ mils: Recommended for heavy foot traffic.
For the best product, look for click-lock planks that are made with a thick, premium base layer and feature a 20mil wear layer or greater.
LVT/LVP floors are water-resistant and have a scratch-resistant layer, ensuring messes, nails, or scrapes don't damage your floor.
Vinyl flooring can be resistant to stains and spills, including pet urine, but it is not completely pee-proof. If pet urine is left on vinyl flooring for an extended period, it can potentially stain or discolor the flooring.
Top 6 Most Popular Flooring in New Homes 2025. The most popular flooring in new homes is wood floors, including prefinished hardwood, unfinished hardwood, and engineered wood followed by laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl planks.
Yes, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring can be used throughout the entire home.
The core material will determine if your LVP can withstand bathroom moisture. Manufacturers engineer modern LVP cores to handle water exposure. This design makes them an excellent choice for bathrooms.
Like any type of flooring, luxury vinyl flooring can suffer from damage if not properly protected, especially from heavy furniture. Indentations, scratches, and tears can mar its surface, reducing its longevity and visual appeal.
Steam mops are not recommended for LVP flooring or any other type of flooring that is not water-resistant, such as hardwood or laminate. Excessive heat and moisture from steam mopping can damage these floors.
Both flooring options are scratch-resistant and can handle heavy foot traffic. However, hybrid vinyl has a clear edge. The rigid core layer makes it highly durable and can withstand wear and tear, dents and scratches. Especially if you have pets or children, hybrid vinyl is a great option.
For residential spaces, 4-6mm vinyl planks are ideal for balancing comfort and durability. These are perfect for living rooms and kitchens where you spend most of your time. In commercial settings, go for 6-12mm to handle the heavy foot traffic of places like restaurants or retail stores.
Accidents, abuse or misuse; • Extreme heat or cold; • Scratching, impact or cutting; • Improper workmanship or installation not in accordance with Dezign North America installation instructions; • Improper maintenance; • Improper fabrication; • Freight damage; • Damages by acts of God; • Planks coming apart at the ...
When moisture penetrates your flooring, it can cause mold, mildew, and the potential for water damage. A moisture barrier helps control the water vapor's movement to help protect your floors. Therefore, if you're installing floors in an area that sees moisture, even a little, a vapor barrier is needed.