What Is LVP Flooring?
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is a synthetic flooring product designed to replicate the look and feel of natural hardwood, but with added durability and moisture resistance. It's made of multiple layers, including a wear layer, a printed vinyl layer, and a rigid or flexible core, depending on the type.
LVP flooring is ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with pets, kids, or moisture-prone zones like bathrooms and kitchens.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing LVP Flooring
- Durability and Wear Layer Thickness
The wear layer is the topmost layer of LVP flooring, protecting it from scratches, stains, and general wear and tear. Here's a quick guide to what wear layer thickness means:
- 6–8 mil: Suitable for low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
- 12–20 mil: Ideal for medium to high-traffic residential spaces.
- 22+ mil: Best for commercial use or homes with heavy traffic.
For most homeowners, a 12–20 mil wear layer provides a perfect balance between cost and durability.
- Water Resistance vs. Waterproof
In 2025, most LVP flooring is marketed as either water-resistant or 100% waterproof.
If you're installing LVP in a bathroom, laundry room, or basement, go with waterproof options for added peace of mind.
- Style, Color, and Texture
One of the biggest advantages of LVP flooring is the variety of designs:
- Wood-look LVP: Mimics oak, hickory, walnut, and other hardwoods.
- Stone-look LVP: Ideal for bathrooms or modern spaces.
- Textured finishes: Embossed or hand-scraped for added realism.
When choosing a color, consider the size and lighting of your room. Light tones make small rooms feel larger, while darker shades add richness and warmth.
Types of LVP Flooring: Which One Suits You?
- Click-Lock LVP (Floating Floor)
- Easy DIY installation
- No adhesive required
- Great for temporary or rental spaces
- Glue-Down LVP
- Strong, permanent installation
- Ideal for large or commercial spaces
- More labor-intensive
- Loose Lay LVP
- Heavier backing holds it in place without glue or locking system
- Easy to remove and replace
- Best for smaller rooms or light-traffic areas
Additional Tips for First-Time LVP Buyers
Check for an Attached Underlayment
Some premium LVP planks come with a built-in underlayment for added comfort and sound absorption. This saves you time and money during installation.
Understand the Warranty
Look for LVP products that offer a lifetime residential warranty or at least 10–20 years. A good warranty is a strong sign of quality.
Order Samples Before You Buy
Lighting, wall color, and surrounding décor can affect how your flooring looks in real life. Always test samples in your home before placing a large order.
Conclusion
Choosing the right LVP flooring may feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the key factors—like wear layer thickness, waterproofing, installation type, and style—it becomes much easier to make a confident decision.
Whether you're updating a single room or planning a whole-house renovation, LVP flooring offers a practical and stylish foundation that fits nearly any space and budget. Take your time, compare options, and don’t hesitate to order samples—your perfect floor is just a plank away.