How to Choose the Thickness of Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring - Why it Matters
Why Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Thickness Matters
The thickness of vinyl plank flooring plays a crucial role in its durability, comfort, and overall performance. Thicker planks offer a more solid feel underfoot, better sound insulation, and increased resistance to wear and tear—especially in high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets. When choosing vinyl flooring in Strathmore, it’s important to consider the demands of your space. Thicker planks are more resistant to dents, scratches, and daily impact, making them a smarter long-term investment.
Key Factors in Luxury Vinyl Plank Thickness
When evaluating vinyl plank flooring, focus on three essential layers:
Wear Layer
Core Layer
Backing Layer
Each of these layers contributes to the floor’s durability, stability, and comfort.
1. Wear Layer
The wear layer is the top protective surface, measured in mils (1 mil = 1/1000th of an inch). This layer protects against scratches, scuffs, and stains.
Residential Use: A wear layer of 6 to 12 mils is typically sufficient for bedrooms, living rooms, and other low- to moderate-traffic areas.
High-Traffic or Commercial Use: Opt for a 20+ mil wear layer for entryways, hallways, or commercial settings where durability is essential.
💡 Tip: When visiting a flooring showroom in Strathmore, ask about the wear layer to ensure it fits your lifestyle and traffic levels.
2. Core Layer
The core layer determines the floor’s stability, water resistance, and feel underfoot.
WPC (Wood-Plastic Composite): Softer, more comfortable, and quieter—ideal for residential areas like bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens.
SPC (Stone-Plastic Composite): Denser and more rigid, SPC is highly durable and perfect for high-traffic areas, commercial spaces, and moisture-prone environments like basements and bathrooms.
✅ Choose WPC for comfort and insulation; SPC for strength and water resistance.
3. Backing Layer
The backing layer provides sound absorption, cushioning, and added stability.
Many luxury vinyl planks come with a pre-attached underlayment, which simplifies installation and enhances comfort, noise reduction, and moisture protection—eliminating the need for a separate underlayment.
How to Choose the Right Luxury Vinyl Plank Thickness
When selecting your vinyl flooring, match the thickness to your space’s traffic levels and comfort needs:
Low-Traffic Areas (e.g., Bedrooms, Guest Rooms):
6–8 mil wear layer
WPC core for added comfort
Moderate-Traffic Areas (e.g., Living Rooms, Kitchens):
12+ mil wear layer
WPC or SPC core depending on moisture levels
High-Traffic or Commercial Areas (e.g., Hallways, Entryways, Offices):
20+ mil wear layer
SPC core with durable backing for stability and noise control
Conclusion
The thickness of your vinyl plank flooring is more than just a number—it directly impacts durability, comfort, sound insulation, and overall performance. Thicker planks provide better resistance to everyday wear, feel more substantial underfoot, and offer improved longevity—especially in busy households or commercial settings.
At Willow Flooring in Strathmore, we’re here to help you make an informed choice. Visit our showroom to explore a wide selection of vinyl plank flooring and speak with our flooring experts. We’ll help you find the perfect thickness, style, and material to suit your space and your lifestyle.
