Refloor's Vinyl Plank Flooring Buying Guide
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is one of the most popular choices for homeowners looking to update the flooring in their homes. It offers the look of natural wood or stone but is more durable and easier to maintain. If you’re considering vinyl plank flooring for your home, we have a buying guide to help you make an informed decision. You’ll learn the different types of vinyl flooring, the best methods of installation, styles, benefits, and more!
Different Types of Vinyl Flooring
There are two main types of vinyl plank flooring to consider when shopping for your next flooring: luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and vinyl plank (VP). LVP is made of a higher quality and more durable material, while VP is a lower-cost option. LVP is also thicker and more comfortable to walk on, but vinyl planks are still a good option for areas with low foot traffic.
Peel and Stick Vinyl Planks
Peel-and-stick vinyl planks are a convenient option for those looking to update their flooring without traditional installation methods. These planks come with a pre-applied adhesive backing, making installation easy. Peel off the protective layer and stick the plank to your floor, and that’s it! They are ideal for a quick update and are a favorite with DIY enthusiasts. They can be installed over most existing floors.
Rigid Core Vinyl Planks (SPC)
Rigid Core Vinyl Planks, or Stone Plastic Composite (SPC), offers a durable flooring option. SPC vinyl planks are composed of a dense, waterproof core. This type of flooring is ideal for areas under heavy use and high traffic. They can be installed in any room, including kitchens and bathrooms.
Waterproof Vinyl Planks (WPC)
Waterproof Core (WPC) vinyl planks are engineered to provide superior water resistance. These planks have a waterproof core made from wood and plastic composites, making them perfect for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. WPC vinyl planks are durable and comfortable underfoot, providing a softer and warmer feel compared to other vinyl options.
Refloor luxury vinyl plank is stunning and guaranteed for life. Our vinyl plank has a WPC core and has 20 – 30 mil layers.
Vinyl Plank Flooring Thickness
The thickness of vinyl plank flooring is important in determining its durability and comfort. Thicker planks are generally more robust and better suited for areas with heavy foot traffic. They also provide more insulation and sound absorption, creating a more comfortable living environment.
Traditional thick vinyl planks are known for their durability and comfort, but SPC vinyl planks offer the same benefits with added rigidity and stability. While traditional planks can be up to 5mm thick, SPC planks typically range from 3.2mm to 7mm but with a denser core, providing superior performance in high-traffic and commercial settings.
A thicker wear layer makes for a higher degree of durability of vinyl planks, protecting them from scratches, dents, and general wear and tear. Thicker wear layers are especially beneficial in homes with pets and children or in commercial spaces with heavy foot traffic.
Vinyl Plank Flooring Wear Layer Ratings & Use Cases
The wear layer acts as a shield to protect the vinyl plank, its design, and the core from scratches, stains, dents, and other everyday wear and tear. To make it easy for homeowners, there are ratings for good, better, and best.
Wear Layer Ratings and Their Use Cases
6 mil (Good): Suitable for residential use, offering basic protection for everyday activities.
12 mil (Better): Ideal for residential and light commercial use, providing enhanced durability.
20 mil+ (Best): Designed for commercial settings, these planks are built to withstand high traffic and rigorous use.
Commercial vs. Residential Vinyl Plank Flooring
We’ve made it easy when deciding between residential and commercial vinyl plank flooring. Residential vinyl plank flooring is designed for comfort and aesthetic appeal and is suitable for areas with moderate foot traffic. In contrast, commercial vinyl plank flooring is engineered for durability and resilience and is capable of handling extremely heavy use and frequent cleaning. Whether you’re renovating a cozy home or outfitting a busy commercial space, there’s a vinyl plank flooring option that’s perfect for you.
What is the Best Installation Method for Vinyl Plank FLooring?
We’ve made it easy when deciding between residential and commercial vinyl plank flooring. Residential vinyl plank flooring is designed for comfort and aesthetic appeal and is suitable for areas with moderate foot traffic. In contrast, commercial vinyl plank flooring is engineered for durability and resilience and is capable of handling extremely heavy use and frequent cleaning. Whether you’re renovating a cozy home or outfitting a busy commercial space, there’s a vinyl plank flooring option that’s perfect for you.
Floating vs Glued
Vinyl plank flooring can either be floating, which means it’s not attached to the subfloor, or it can be glued down. Floating vinyl plank is preferred because its unique locking mechanisms allow the floor to expand and contract without causing gaps. Additionally, if replacements are needed, the process is simple and quick. Some subfloors aren’t suitable with adhesives, so a floating method must be used.
What Thickness of Vinyl Plank Flooring Is Best?
When shopping for vinyl plank flooring, pay attention to the thickness of the planks. You’ll want to look at the wear layer, the top layer of the plank that protects it from scratches, scuffs, and stains. A thicker wear layer offers greater protection and makes the flooring more durable. Look for a commercial-grade wear layer that is 20 mils thick. Vinyl plank flooring that is not thick may scratch and fade more easily and is best used in low-traffic areas of the home or business.
Design and Style for Vinyl Plank Flooring
The fun part of any home or office refresh is the design and style phase. Fortunately, with vinyl plank flooring, an almost unlimited amount of colors and patterns are available. You are sure to find something that matches the style of your home. Vinyl plank flooring options include designs that look like real wood or stone, giving you the look of these materials without the high cost and maintenance.
Wood-Look Vinyl Planks
Wood-look vinyl planks are incredibly popular among homeowners and business owners alike. These planks highlight wood’s rich, natural appearance without the maintenance and cost of real hardwood flooring. Available in various finishes, colors, and textures, wood-look vinyl planks can mimic everything from oak and maple to exotic woods like Brazilian cherry or mahogany.
Why It’s Popular
- They blend seamlessly with any decor style, from rustic to modern.
- Unlike real wood, they are resistant to water, scratches, and stains, making them perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
- Simple to clean and maintain, wood-look vinyl planks retain their beauty with minimal effort.
Wood-look vinyl planks are ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, offering a warm, inviting aesthetic. They can be used in businesses and homes with equal success.
Stone-Look Vinyl Planks
Stone-look vinyl planks bring the luxurious appearance of natural stone into your home or business without the hefty price tag and challenging installation process. These planks can replicate the look of marble, slate, granite, and other stone materials, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space.
- Stone-look vinyl planks can transform any room into a high-end, stylish environment.
- It provides a softer, warmer surface compared to actual stone, making it more comfortable to walk on.
- Getting the look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost is an economical choice for homeowners looking to upgrade.
Stone look is used in entryways, hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Virtually everywhere!
Decorative Vinyl Planks
Decorative vinyl planks are a creative and stylish flooring option designed to make a statement. These planks come in various patterns, colors, and designs, allowing you to create unique and eye-catching floors that reflect your style.
- From intricate geometric designs to bold colors and artistic motifs, decorative vinyl planks offer endless possibilities for customization.
- Perfect for accent walls, feature floors, or creative projects, they add a distinctive touch to any space.
- Like other vinyl options, decorative planks are easy to install and maintain, making them a practical choice for adding flair to your interiors.
Decorative vinyl planks are used in homes and commercial spaces. It can be used in playrooms, cafés, and boutiques and can add a bit of charm and personality to any space.
Choosing the right vinyl plank flooring can elevate the style and functionality of your space. Whether you prefer wood-look planks, the elegance of stone-look planks, or the creativity of decorative vinyl, we know there is an option for you!
How to Maintain Vinyl Plank Flooring
When it comes to maintenance, vinyl plank flooring is relatively easy to care for. It can be swept, vacuumed, or mopped to keep it clean. You’ll want to use a floor cleaner specifically made for vinyl plank flooring to avoid damaging the surface. You should also avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, which can damage the surface.
Benefits of High-Quality Vinyl Plank Flooring
One of the great benefits of high-quality vinyl plank flooring is it is suitable for every room in the house. Let’s explore some more advantages of this versatile flooring.
Durability and Longevity – Luxury vinyl plank flooring can withstand heavy use and last for years, even in high-traffic areas.
Cost-Effectiveness – Compared to tile or wood flooring, vinyl flooring provides the look of wood or stone at a fraction of the cost.
Water-Resistance – Vinyl plank is highly resistant to water, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Comfort and Warmth Underfoot – Unlike cold tile or stone, vinyl plank flooring is soft and warm to walk on. It is a fantastic choice for homes with pets and children.
Easy Maintenance – Maintenance of vinyl plank flooring is a breeze. LVP and LVT keep water and spill on the surface, unlike wood. General cleaning is as simple as mopping or sweeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are luxury vinyl planks better than laminate?
A: There is no single “better” option; it really depends on your needs! Here’s a quick breakdown.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
Pros include: Waterproof (great for bathrooms and kitchens!), comfortable underfoot, wide variety of realistic styles, and easy to clean and maintain.
Cons include: It can be softer and more prone to dents than laminate, and some LVP might not be as budget-friendly.
Laminate
Pros include: It is typically more affordable than LVP, durable against scratches, and has a wide variety of wood-look styles.
Cons include: It is not waterproof, can buckle with water exposure, is not as comfortable underfoot as LVP, and can sound hollow when walking on.
Both offer a wide range, but LVP might have more realistic options like stone or tile.
For high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms, LVP is the clear winner.
Q: How do you clean luxury vinyl plank flooring?
A: Maintenance on luxury vinyl plank flooring is easy. Remove any loose dirt with a soft bristle broom. Wash the floor with warm water and use a soft mop. For more information on the best care for your LVP flooring, follow our guide for sparkling floors
Q: How much does vinyl flooring cost?
A: Vinyl flooring costs can vary depending on the quality, thickness of the wear layer, plank size, and space square footage. To get a clear idea of your project’s cost, consider contacting Refloor for a free estimate.