Choosing the right thickness for luxury vinyl
flooring can be confusing. Some options feel paper-thin, while others seem nearly indestructible. So, how do you decide what works best for your space? It’s not just about durability—comfort, stability, and even soundproofing all come into play. Let’s break it down.
Why thickness matters
The thickness of luxury vinyl flooring affects more than just how it looks. Here’s why it’s important:
- Durability: Thicker floors handle heavy foot traffic better. If you have kids or pets, thicker planks or tiles will last longer.
- Comfort: Thicker vinyl has a softer feel underfoot. It’s easier on your joints, especially in areas where you stand for long periods, like kitchens.
- Sound absorption: A thicker floor reduces noise. If you live in an apartment or have an upstairs room, a thicker option helps keep things quieter.
- Subfloor imperfections: Thicker planks hide minor flaws in the subfloor. If your existing floor isn’t perfectly smooth, go for a thicker option to prevent issues down the road.
Standard luxury vinyl thickness options
Luxury vinyl flooring thickness typically falls into these categories:
- 2mm–3mm: The thinnest option. Best for low-traffic areas or places where you’re installing over a perfectly smooth subfloor.
- 4mm–5mm: A solid middle ground. It works well for most homes, balancing durability with a sleek look.
- 6mm–8mm+: The thickest and most premium choice. Great for commercial spaces or high-traffic residential areas where longevity is a must.
Choosing the right thickness for each room
Not all rooms need the same thickness. Here’s what to consider for different spaces in your home.
- Living room and bedrooms: For these spaces, a 4mm–6mm thickness is usually enough. These areas don’t face the same wear and tear as kitchens or entryways, so you don’t need the thickest option. If soundproofing is a priority, lean toward the thicker end of the range.
- Kitchen and hallways: Kitchens and hallways see constant foot traffic, spills, and dropped objects. A 5mm–8mm thick luxury vinyl plank works best. It holds up well against wear and provides a slightly softer feel for long cooking sessions.
- Bathrooms and laundry rooms: Moisture is the biggest concern here. While thickness plays a role, the waterproof rating is just as important. A 5mm+ thickness with a waterproof core is ideal. Look for a stone polymer composite (SPC) core for extra durability.
- Basements: Basements often have uneven subfloors. A 6mm+ thickness is recommended to cover minor imperfections. If you’re installing over concrete, consider adding an underlayment for extra comfort and insulation.
Do thicker luxury vinyl floors always mean better quality?
Not necessarily. While thickness helps with durability and comfort, the wear layer matters just as much. This is the protective coating on top of the vinyl. A 12-mil to 20-mil wear layer is ideal for residential use, while 30-mil+ is best for commercial settings.
Your experts on LVT and LVP flooring in Banner Elk, NC
Picking the right luxury vinyl flooring thickness depends on your space, lifestyle, and budget. If you need durability, go thick. If you’re covering a smooth subfloor in a low-traffic area, a thinner option may work just fine. Whatever you choose, make sure the wear layer and waterproof features match your needs.
A Flooring Outlet, Inc . offers a wide selection of high-quality LVT and LVP flooring options. Our showroom in Banner Elk, NC, serves all of Avery County and Watauga County, including Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock, NC, as well as Lenoir, NC, Roan Mountain, and Trade, TN.
