The choice of LVP floor thickness is not easy, but it can really shape the general performance of your floors. This is because the thickness of LVP goes a long way in influencing many aspects, such as durability, comfort, soundproofing, and aesthetics, to contribute to the uniqueness of your room. This blog explains how to make an informed choice about the right thickness for LVP flooring in every room.
Understanding LVP Flooring Thickness
What Is LVP Flooring Thickness?
Thickness of LVP flooring refers to two primary components:
- Plank Core Thickness: Overall thickness of the vinyl plank, generally in millimeters (mm).
- Size of sheeting: Thickness of the warping layer on the top of the plank, measured in mils. (1 mil = 0.001 inches).
A thicker plank core makes the surface sturdier and cozier. However, a thicker wear layer also develops scratch resistance and durability.
Standard Thickness Options in LVP Flooring
LVP comes in a variety of thicknesses:
- Plank core: 2mm to 8mm or more.
- Wear Layer: 6 mils to 30+ mils depending on quality.
Premium planks usually have thicker wear layers, making them particularly suitable for high-traffic areas or houses with children and pets.
Factors to Consider When Choosing LVP Thickness
Room Usage and Foot Traffic
High-traffic locations, such as entryways to the kitchen and hallway entrances, should be 5mm–8mm in thickness with at least a 20-mil wear layer. These are always walked on so building durability is essential.
Low-traffic rooms such as guest bedrooms can be managed with thinner planks (2mm-4mm) and a wear layer of around 12 mils. In such rooms, comfort is often preferred over durability concerns.
Subfloor Type and Condition
- Concrete Subfloors: Require thicker planks (5mm+) to compensate for hardness and provide better insulation.
- Uneven Subfloors: Thicker LVP can hide minor imperfections, reducing the need for extensive prep and leaving a smoother finish.
Insulation and Soundproofing Needs
Thicker, 6-8 mm boards with attached underlayment help reduce noise that passes between floors in multi-story places. Such planks are especially needed in bedrooms or offices.
Budget and Longevity Goals
Thinner planks with fewer wear layers cost less but might need to be replaced sooner.
Investing in thicker planks provides a better return on investment concerning durability and long-term performance. Although the initial cost may be greater, the savings associated with repair and replacement can surpass the initial expenditure.
Recommended LVP Thickness for Different Rooms
Living Rooms and Family Rooms
Select planks that are 4mm–6mm in thickness for optimal comfort and durability. Consider a 12 mil–20 mil wear layer for durability with daily usage. Thicker planks contribute to a more luxurious feel underfoot, which is perfect for spaces in which you’ll spend time entertaining or relaxing.
Kitchens and Dining Areas
These areas are prone to spills and traffic. The minimum 5mm+ plank thickness with a wear layer of at least 20 mils will protect against water and withstand tremendous wear and tear. In open floor plans, making the plank thickness uniform with adjacent areas will create a natural transition.
Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms
Waterproofing is essential. For rigid core, use 5mm-7mm thick LVP with a wear layer of 20–30 mils. This prevents warping and ensures stability in moist conditions. Thicker planks help to provide a more solid feel under conditions of humidity.
Bedrooms and Home Offices
Underlayment in 3mm–5mm thick planks can offer quiet and comfort. These areas do not require a wear layer thicker than 12–15 mils, so it will be a budget-friendly option for personal spaces. Thinner planks with the right underlayment can provide perfect comfort and great soundproofing.
Basements and Garages
Uneven subfloors and the potential presence of moisture problems make thicker planks (6mm–8mm) a sensible choice. They should have a waterproofing and heavy usage rating. In garages where the weight of automobiles or equipment is a problem, a stiff core with an extra thickness ensures that stability is not compromised.
The Role of Wear Layer in LVP Flooring
Wear Layer Thickness vs. Plank Core Thickness
While the plank core provides stability and comfort, the wear layer defines how well it withstands scratches, dents, and stains. For homes with an active lifestyle, like households that have pets, or homes with children, a thicker wear layer is created above 20 mils. For commercial settings, the recommended wear layer is at 30+ mils due to much use and contact.
Choosing the Right Wear Layer for Your Needs
- Heavy-use areas: Consider 20-30+ mil wear layers to remain durable in heavy use.
- Light-use areas: 6–12 mil wear layers suffice, saving you money without sacrificing quality. Consider your lifestyle and whether additional durability is worth the investment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing LVP Thickness
- Ignoring Subfloor Preparation: Skipping the preparation of the subfloor can make the planks imperfectly aligned, even with thicker planks. A bumpy or unevenly laid subfloor will also not give a good look, even to the premium LVP flooring.
- Choosing Cost Over Quality: Thinner planks with low wear layers may save money upfront but cost more in replacements.
- Neglecting Wear Layer Needs: Areas that have more traffic require thicker wear layers for durability. Never compromise the wear layer thickness in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your flooring.
Conclusion
Choosing the appropriate LVP thickness ensures that your floor fits the needs of each room. Consider traffic, moisture, and subfloor conditions to achieve the ideal combination of durability and comfort. Whether it is a busy kitchen or a peaceful bedroom, the appropriate thickness ensures style, functionality, and long-term value. To make the best choice for your house, seek personalized assistance from a flooring expert.
What thickness should be used for LVP flooring in the bathroom and other wet areas?
For wet areas, at least 5mm–7mm of core thickness should be used along with a wear layer of 20–30 mils. A waterproof rigid core must be used, which protects against warping and damage.
Are there minimum thickness requirements for subfloor imperfections?
If your subfloor has minor imperfections, opt for 5mm or more planks. Thicker planks can hide slight unevenness better, reducing the need for comprehensive subfloor preparation.
Can I use thinner LVP planks in low-traffic areas to save money?
Yes, thinner planks (2mm–4mm) with a wear layer of 6–12 mils can work well in low-traffic areas, such as guest bedrooms or closets.
What is the ideal thickness for furniture-dense spaces?
For heavy furniture rooms, such as a living room or office, an LVP with a core thickness of 5mm to 8mm ensures that planks will not dent or warp with pressure.
Do I need different thicknesses depending on upstairs vs. downstairs floors?
Yes, thicker planks (6mm–8mm) with attached underlayment should be used for upstairs floors to improve the quality of soundproofing, and thinner planks (3mm–5mm) can be used downstairs as no one is concerned with noise.
What is the ideal thickness for DIY LVP installation?
Thinner planks, 4mm–6mm thick, are easier to handle and install for DIY installations.
Does thickness affect the durability of vinyl flooring?
Thicker planks with strong wear layers of 20+ mils are more durable, especially for high-traffic or heavy-use areas. The extra thickness will eventually resist dents, scratches, and wear over time.
