What Is The Ideal Wear-Layer Thickness?
Close your eyes and picture your dream home: its elegant furniture, tasteful decor, and lavish ambiance instantly puts you at ease. But what about the flooring? Is it everything you’ve ever wanted? Stunning, waterproof, and practical all at once? That’s where Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring comes in. It’s become a favorite among homeowners for its durability, affordability, and waterproof capabilities. But with so many options available, how do you know which is best? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about LVP flooring, focusing on the wear-layer thickness and how it can make or break your floor’s longevity. From location suitability to practicality and everything in between, let’s dive in and find the perfect LVP flooring for you!
Luxury Vinyl Explained: What Is LVP?
Imagine the luxurious look of hardwood or stone flooring without a hefty price tag. That’s what LVP flooring offers! But what exactly is LVP? Let’s dive into the details:
- LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank – a type of vinyl flooring made of several layers, including the finish, wear, print, core, and backing layers.
- There are so many benefits of this type of floor, but there are five huge benefits to LVP. It’s waterproof and pet-proof flooring that’s both low-maintenance and budget-friendly.
- It’s available in various styles, textures, and colors, mimicking the look of hardwood or stone flooring.
Ready to elevate your home’s style with LVP flooring? Let’s explore more about wear layers, measurements, and longevity (oh my) to help you make an informed decision.
What Is A Wear-Layer?
You’ve probably heard of the term wear-layer if you’re reading this. But what exactly does it mean?
Directly above the wear-layer is the finish layer, also known as the UV layer. A shield against bacteria and discoloration, this layer of protective UltraViolet coating extends the life of the plank.
The wear-layer takes the most abuse from foot traffic, spills, muddy paws, and general wear and tear. The layer is clear and protects the wood-look grain. It gives exceptional durability and resistance to pet scratches and stains. The thicker the wear-layer, the better the protection against these types of damage.
To learn more about each of the layers, check out this in-depth look at why LVP is so durable.
How Are Wear-Layers Measured?
It can be a bit confusing because vinyl manufacturers in Asia or Europe use the metric system to measure the thickness of the wear-layer in millimeters. On the other hand, American brands typically use mils (one-thousandth of an inch) as their unit of measure. To help you better understand the range of wear-layers available, we’ve put together a chart with both millimeter and mil measurements.
Keep in mind that measurements can vary depending on the brand of floors. A higher wear-layer thickness generally means greater durability and a longer lifespan for your flooring.
LVP Wear-Layers: Which One Will Last The Longest?
LVP flooring is known for its durability, but just how long can you expect it to last? The longevity of your flooring depends on various factors, including the quality of the product, the thickness of the wear-layer, and the amount of foot traffic your flooring receives. Focus on choosing a wear-layer thickness that suits your specific needs and lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know:
- Generally, LVP flooring can last anywhere from around 3 to 20+ years, depending on the wear-layer thickness and quality of the product.
- Higher-quality LVP will typically last longer than cheaper options. Investing in a higher-quality product with a thicker wear-layer can save you money in the long run.
- A thicker wear-layer will provide better protection, ultimately extending the life of your flooring.
What's the Best Thickness for Vinyl Plank Floors?
When choosing the right thickness for your vinyl plank flooring, there are several factors to consider, including your budget, the level of foot traffic in the area, and the type of space you want to install the flooring.
If you plan to install LVP flooring in high-traffic commercial spaces or areas in your home, a thicker wear-layer is recommended. A 20 mil wear-layer or higher is ideal for maximum protection. For residential spaces with moderate foot traffic, a 12 mil wear-layer should suffice.
It’s important to note that the thickness of the wear-layer is just one factor to consider, as the quality of the material, installation method, subfloor surface, and maintenance also play significant roles in the overall durability and lifespan of your vinyl plank flooring.
CoreLogic offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. The LUXEPlank Enhanced Series with a 22 mil wear-layer is the way to go for high-traffic areas. For medium-traffic spaces, the City Limits Series with a 20 mil wear-layer is a great option, while their Easy Street Series with a 12 mil wear-layer is perfect for low-traffic areas.
Remember, choosing the right thickness for your vinyl plank flooring is essential to ensure its longevity and durability. At Floorily, we’re here to help you make the right choice for your home.
Wrapping Up: LVP Flooring & Wear-Layers
When deciding on the right vinyl plank flooring, thickness matters. Specifically, the thickness of the wear-layer is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the right flooring for your space. This topmost layer provides your flooring with the necessary durability and resistance against everyday wear and tear. Beyond wear-layer thickness, there are other important factors to consider when selecting vinyl plank floors, such as the quality of the material, installation method, subfloor surface, and maintenance.
At Floorily, we understand that finding the perfect vinyl plank flooring can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a range of resources to help you in your flooring journey. Check out our LVP homeowner’s guide and step-by-step guide on cleaning your LVP flooring.
We’re always ready to lend a hand and answer any questions. So, don’t be shy and hit us up through our chat feature or contact form. Our team of experts is standing by and eager to help you out. Whether you’re just starting your flooring journey or need additional guidance, we’ve got your back.
