Is a 12 mil wear layer enough for dogs?

Author: Monica O'Connell  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 11, 2025

A 12 mil wear layer provides sufficient protection for LVT floors in homes with dogs, offering decent scratch and stain resistance. However, it's essential to consider your home's specific needs and the level of wear and tear your floors will face.

Is a 12 mil wear layer enough?

For most homes, a 12 mil wear layer works great. This thickness can handle everyday life – kids playing, pets running around, and furniture being moved. Many pet-friendly LVP options start at this wear layer thickness because it provides good protection against scratches and daily wear.

Which is better, 12 mil or 20 mil?

Contact First US Floors

By choosing 20 mil SPC flooring over 12 mil, you'll benefit from increased durability, enhanced longevity, better resistance to stains and scratches, greater value for your investment, and a flooring solution that's well-suited for high-traffic areas.

Will dogs ruin LVP flooring?

Lvp is waterproof and depending on what you buy(thicker usually means better imo), they can stand up to dogs.

What is the best flooring to put down if you have dogs?

Jordan Wells, a flooring and fine carpentry expert and owner of Wells Made, says tile and vinyl plank are the most durable flooring materials for pets. ``These products are mostly waterproof and ideal for pet spills and accidents, and have a hard surface to prevent scratches and dents,'' he explains.

Is 12 Mil Wear Layer Good Enough For 2 Kids And A Small Dog?

What mil vinyl plank flooring is best for dogs?

What Thickness is Best for LVP? We recommend LVP flooring with a 12 mil wear layer or thicker for homes with dogs.

What is the best thing to put on the floor of a dog house?

One of the best dog kennel flooring ideas for your dog kennel is Tenderfoot Flooring. This is a popular type of flooring that is made of rubber or plastic materials and has an interlocking design.

What destroys vinyl plank flooring?

Enemies of Vinyl Flooring
  • Dirt and Grit: Acting like sandpaper, dirt and grit particles can scratch the wear layer of the vinyl, especially at entryways and high-traffic areas. ...
  • Sharp Objects: Dropping sharp objects like knives or tools can puncture or gouge vinyl.

Is LVP or laminate better for dogs?

LVP is completely waterproof, making it the superior choice for pet-resistant flooring.

What happens if water gets under LVP flooring?

On the other hand, water under vinyl planks and subfloor that collects and has a place to infiltrate could turn into a bigger problem. Mold and mildew can form where moisture has a gap to enter. This can lead to damage that's bad enough to where you will need to rip up the floor and have it replaced.

What is the life expectancy of LVP flooring?

Its thickness ranges from 0.3mm to 0.7mm. Thinner layers (0.3mm) are expected to last 10 to 15 years, while thicker layers (0.5mm to 0.7mm) can extend the flooring's lifespan beyond 20 years, particularly in residential settings.

What thickness LVP is best?

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.

What does 12 mil thickness mean?

When it comes to plastic sheeting, "mil" refers to a unit of measurement equivalent to one-thousandth of an inch. This measurement is crucial in determining the durability, strength, and overall performance of the plastic sheet. A higher mil thickness generally indicates a stronger and more durable plastic.

What brand of LVP is best?

2025's Top Picks: Best Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Brands Reviewed
  • #1 Proximity Mills.
  • #2 Canopy Floors.
  • #3 Liberty Home.
  • #4 Doma.
  • #5 Newton.
  • Honorable Mentions.
  • #6 Armstrong.
  • #7 Mannington.

How do I know if my LVP is good quality?

High-quality vinyl plank flooring, such as that from Vidar Design Flooring, typically features a wear layer thickness of at least 20 mils. This ensures the flooring can withstand heavy traffic and maintain its appearance over time. Thicker wear layers provide better protection and longevity.

How long can you run vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring is known for its durability, but like any flooring material, it may require repair or replacement under certain circumstances. Depending on the thickness of the wear layer and the foot traffic, luxury vinyl flooring will last from 10 to over 20 years.

Will dog nails scratch luxury vinyl plank?

LVP is designed to withstand the wear and tear caused by pets, making it an ideal choice for homes with dogs. One of the main benefits of LVP flooring is its scratch-resistant surface. Unlike hardwood floors, which can easily be scratched by dog nails, LVP is designed to withstand the impact of pet claws.

What is the most dog proof flooring?

Concrete is one of the best flooring options for dogs and other pets because it can hold up to significant wear and messes.

Can you put a refrigerator on vinyl plank flooring?

Since most furniture will not go under just one plank, it is perfectly safe for bulky furniture and refrigerators to go on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring will not be damaged or cracked by home appliances' weight due to its strong durability.

Can mold grow under vinyl plank flooring?

Mold Growth: Mold can thrive under vinyl plank flooring due to moisture. Health Risks: Exposure to mold can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and more serious health conditions. Vinyl Plank Flooring: While durable and versatile, can be a breeding ground for mold if not properly maintained.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for LVP flooring?

Generally speaking, most luxury vinyl planks can be cleaned using soap and water and don't require a special LVP cleaner. A dishwashing soap like Dawn is the best way to clean vinyl plank flooring because it will cut grime and grease without stripping your floors or damaging the wear layer.

What floor surface is best for dogs?

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Flooring

This flooring is often considered the best choice for dog owners. Advantages: LVT is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and stain-proof. The textured surface provides excellent slip-resistance, reducing the risk of injuries.

How can I make my house dog proof?

How to pet proof your home
  1. Add anti-scratch tape to the couch to discourage scratching.
  2. Cover electrical cords to keep chewers away.
  3. Cover HVAC vents.
  4. Move or block exercise equipment to prevent injuries.
  5. Place remote controls on a high shelf. ...
  6. Put down pee pads or water repellent carpeting for accidents.

What is the best surface for dogs?

Dog-Friendly Backyard: The Best Landscape Designs for Dogs
  • Artificial Grass for Dogs or “Pet Turf”
  • Pea Gravel.
  • Wood Chips / Mulch.

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