LVP flooring with a thickness of 4 to 8mm works well for most homes. Thinner planks work well in lower-traffic areas, but they don’t feel as premium.
Table of Contents:
- Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank Thickness
- Living Room and Bedroom
- Kitchen and Bathroom
- Hallway and Entryway
- Home Office
- Basement
- Factors to Consider When Choosing LVP Thickness
- Maintenance Tips for LVP Flooring
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank Thickness
LVP thickness is measured in millimeters (mm) and refers to the total height of the plank, including all its layers. LVP is made up of several layers:
- Wear layer: The topmost layer protects the plank from scratches, stains, and wear.
- Decorative layer: A printed image layer that gives LVP its realistic wood or stone appearance.
- Core layer: The thickest part of the plank that provides structure, stability, and waterproof properties.
- Backing layer: The bottom layer, which provides support and soundproofing.
LVP flooring can be found in various thickness levels, ranging from 2 to 8mm or more.
Living Room and Bedroom
Recommended thickness: 4 to 6mm
Living rooms and bedrooms typically experience moderate foot traffic, so Luxury Vinyl Flooring with 4 to 6mm thickness would work well. This range provides durability without the need for excessive thickness, and it feels comfortable underfoot.
Additional tips:
- Choose LVP with a wear layer of at least 12 mils for bedrooms and 20 mils for living rooms to withstand furniture movement and moderate use.
- Opt for designs that complement the room’s aesthetics, such as wood-look planks for a cozy atmosphere.
Kitchen and Bathroom
Recommended thickness: 6 to 8mm
Kitchens and bathrooms are high-moisture areas that demand water-resistant or waterproof flooring. A thicker LVP between 6 and 8mm provides better stability and resists humidity and spills. Thicker planks also handle the heavier foot traffic these areas often experience.
Additional tips:
- Look for LVP with a 20 to 30 mil wear layer for added durability and resistance to scratches caused by kitchen tools or bathroom accessories.
- The subfloor should be level to avoid water seeping into gaps.
- Consider planks with a textured surface to reduce slipperiness in bathrooms.
Hallway and Entryway
Recommended thickness: 6 to 8mm
Hallways and entryways are high-traffic zones that endure heavy use and the potential for dirt, grit, and moisture being tracked in from outdoors. Thicker Luxury Vinyl Flooring planks are durable enough to withstand constant wear and tear while maintaining their appearance.
Additional tips:
- Use planks with a 20 to 30 mil wear layer to resist scratches and dents from shoes and heavy items like luggage.
- Go for designs that incorporate darker or textured finishes to hide dirt and scuffs.
Home Office
Recommended thickness: 4 to 6mm
Home offices usually experience light to moderate foot traffic. LVP flooring between 4 and 6mm strikes a balance between durability and affordability while offering a professional, polished look.
Additional tips:
- Use planks with a 12 to 20 mil wear layer to protect against scratches from office chairs and furniture.
- Choose noise-reducing underlayment to create a quieter work environment.
Basement
Recommended thickness: 5 to 7mm
Basements often have uneven subfloors and higher humidity levels, so a mid-range LVP thickness of 5 to 7mm is ideal. Thicker planks with a rigid core provide stability over minor imperfections and additional protection against moisture.
Additional tips:
- Choose a waterproof LVP flooring with an SPC core for added durability and resistance to potential basement moisture issues.
- Install an underlayment for better insulation and soundproofing, as basements can be colder and noisier.
Factors to Consider When Choosing LVP Thickness
When choosing your LVP flooring, here’s all you need to consider:
Traffic Levels
The amount of foot traffic is a crucial factor in determining the best LVP thickness for a space.
- High-traffic areas: Choose thicker planks (6 to 8mm) because they are durable and resist wear and tear.
- Low-traffic areas: Thinner planks (2 to 4mm) work well for less-used spaces like guest rooms or closets.
Subfloor Condition
The condition and type of subfloor can also influence your choice:
- Uneven subfloors: Thicker planks with rigid cores (SPC or WPC) can help mask imperfections.
- Smooth subfloors: Thinner LVP may work well on a level surface, saving cost without compromising performance.
Installation Method
Recommended thicknesses for different installation methods:
- Glue-down installation: Works well with thinner LVP (2 to 4mm).
- Click-lock installation: Requires thicker planks (4 to 8mm) for better stability and ease of installation.
Comfort Underfoot
Thicker planks provide a more cushioned feel, making them ideal for spaces where you’ll stand for long periods, like kitchens.
Acoustics
Thicker planks offer better sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between floors, which is a key consideration for multi-level homes or apartments.
Budget
While thicker LVP typically costs more, it offers better long-term value because of increased durability and performance.
Maintenance Tips for LVP Flooring
Regardless of thickness, proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your LVP flooring:
- Clean regularly: Sweep or vacuum daily to remove debris and dirt.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Use pH-neutral cleaners to protect the wear layer.
- Prevent scratches: Use felt pads under furniture and avoid dragging heavy furniture or other items.
Control moisture: Wipe sills promptly and avoid excessive water when cleaning.
The Final Words
The best thickness for luxury vinyl plank flooring depends on your specific needs, including traffic levels, subfloor condition, and budget. For most residential spaces, a thickness of 4 to 6mm offers an excellent balance of affordability and performance. In high-traffic or commercial settings, thicker planks (6 to 8mm or more) provide added durability, stability, and comfort.
If you need help choosing the perfect LVP flooring for your home, get in touch with Family Interiors. With over 45 years of experience, our seasoned pros will visit your home for free and help you make the right decision. We can also help you with installation and maintenance.
