LVP Flooring: A Beginner’s Guide To LVP

If you're exploring new flooring, you've likely heard of LVP. As one of today's top choices, it blends style with durability, but many people still ask: what is LVP flooring, exactly?

This guide gets straight to the point. We'll explain what LVP is made of, compare it to laminate, break down its cost, and cover the pros and cons. By the end, you'll know if Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is the right fit for your home.

Key Takeaways

• What is LVP? LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank, which is a durable, multi-layered flooring made with a waterproof polymer core (SPC or WPC) and a high-definition wood-look design layer.
• LVP vs. Laminate: The biggest advantage of LVP is its waterproof core, making it superior to laminate (which has a wood-based core) for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
• Durability is key: A floor's long-term durability is determined by its wear layer thickness, measured in miles (a 20 mil layer is excellent for busy homes), not just the total plank thickness.
• Cost and value: Material costs typically range from $2 to $7 per square foot, but the total installed cost is often double that. It offers the look of hardwood for a lower price.
• Pros & Cons: LVP is waterproof, durable, and easy to maintain, but it can be dented by heavy furniture and cannot be refinished like real wood.

Deconstructing LVP: What is LVP flooring made of?

To understand what makes LVP so special, we need to look inside. Unlike old-school sheet vinyl, Luxury Vinyl Plank is a highly engineered, multi-layered product designed for performance. Each layer serves a critical function.

1. Protective wear layer: This is the invisible shield for your floor. It's a clear top coating that defends against scratches, scuffs, and stains. The thickness of this layer, measured in mils (e.g., 12 mil, 20 mil), is the single most important factor in your floor's long-term durability. High-quality wear layers are often enhanced with additives like aluminum oxide for superior toughness.
2. High-definition design layer: This is where the magic happens. Using advanced digital printing technology, this layer features a hyper-realistic image of wood grain (or stone, in the case of LVT). The quality of this print determines how convincingly your LVP mimics natural hardwood.
3. Core layer (the heart of the plank): This is the thick, structural center of the plank that provides rigidity and stability. It's also what makes LVP famous for its water resistance. There are two main types of cores:

• WPC (Wood-Plastic Composite): This core includes wood-like materials, making it slightly softer and more comfortable underfoot. It's a great choice for bedrooms and living areas.
• SPC (Stone-Plastic Composite): This core is made with a high concentration of limestone, making it incredibly dense, rigid, and resistant to dents. SPC is the top choice for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and homes with kids and pets.

4. Backing layer: This bottom layer provides a stable foundation for the plank. Many modern LVP products, including those at Floordi, come with a pre-attached underlayment or pad on this layer, which adds cushioning, absorbs sound, and simplifies installation.

The great debate: LVP vs. Laminate vs. LVT

LVP is often compared to its close cousins, laminate and LVT. While they can look similar, their core differences are crucial.

LVP flooring vs. Laminate

This is the most common comparison. For years, laminate had a slight edge in realism, but LVP technology has caught up. Today, the biggest difference lies in their core material.

• Water resistance: This is the key differentiator. LVP has a 100% polymer-based core (WPC or SPC), making the planks themselves waterproof. They won't swell or warp from topical spills. Laminate, on the other hand, has a fiberboard core made from wood byproducts. While water-resistant on top, any moisture that seeps into the core will cause irreversible swelling and damage. For kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, LVP is the clear winner.
• Durability: Both are very durable. Laminate's surface is extremely hard and scratch-resistant. However, LVP's rigid core (especially SPC) is generally more resistant to dents from heavy impacts.

LVP vs. LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)

This one is simple: the only difference is the shape.

• LVP (Plank): Comes in long, rectangular planks to mimic hardwood.
• LVT (Tile): Comes in square or rectangular tiles to mimic stone or ceramic.

Functionally, they are the same material with the same benefits. The choice between them is purely aesthetic.

The pros and cons of LVP flooring: An honest look

No floor is perfect for every situation. To build trust and help you make the best decision, here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of LVP.

Pros: Why people love LVP

• Truly waterproof planks: Ideal for any room, including moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and basements.
• Incredible durability: With a strong wear layer and a rigid core, LVP stands up to heavy foot traffic, pets, and children.
• Stunning realism: Modern LVP offers incredibly convincing wood looks with deep embossing and texture.
• Easy to clean & maintain: A simple routine of sweeping and occasional damp mopping is all it takes. No waxing or refinishing needed.
• DIY-friendly: Most LVP uses a click-lock system that makes for a straightforward floating floor installation.

Cons: What to consider

• Can be dented: While durable, heavy furniture can dent LVP, especially softer WPC cores.
• Cannot be refinished: Unlike solid hardwood, a deep scratch or gouge in LVP cannot be sanded out. The damaged plank must be replaced.
• Susceptible to fading: Like any flooring, prolonged exposure to direct, intense UV sunlight can cause some fading over time. It's wise to use curtains or blinds in rooms with large, south-facing windows.

How much does LVP flooring cost?

One of the most attractive features of LVP is its affordability compared to real hardwood. However, the total cost involves more than just the price per square foot.

• Material cost: Based on 2025 market analysis, the price for LVP planks typically ranges from $2 to $7 per square foot.
• Budget-friendly options from big-box stores usually fall in the $2 to $4 range.
• Premium brands with thicker wear layers and advanced features can cost $4 to $10+ per square foot.
• Professional installation cost: Labor for installation generally adds $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. This can increase with complex layouts or extensive subfloor preparation.
• Hidden costs: Don't forget to budget for potential extras like old floor removal ($1-$4/sq. ft.), subfloor leveling, underlayment (if not attached), and new trim.

The bottom line: The total installed cost of an LVP floor is often double the material cost. Always get a detailed, itemized quote from your installer.

To provide a practical, holistic view of these combined costs, the following table estimates the total project budget for a hypothetical 200 square foot room.

This table clearly illustrates how ancillary costs can dramatically increase the total project budget, reinforcing the need for consumers to seek comprehensive quotes that itemize every aspect of the job.

Choosing your perfect floor: Key LVP specifications

When you shop for LVP, you'll see two key thickness measurements on the box. Understanding them is crucial.

Total plank thickness (in mm)

This is the overall thickness of the plank, usually from 4mm to 8mm or more. A thicker plank offers several benefits:

• It feels more solid and substantial underfoot.
• It's better at hiding minor imperfections in your subfloor.
• It provides better sound insulation.

Wear layer thickness (in mil)

This is the most important spec for durability. It refers only to the top protective coating.

• 6-12 mil: Good for light-traffic areas like bedrooms.
• 12-20 mil: The sweet spot for most busy homes. A 20 mil wear layer is highly recommended for households with kids and pets. That's why Avolis LVP is selected with a 20 mil wear layer, ensuring it meets the demands of the most dynamic households.
• 22 mil+: Commercial-grade durability for the ultimate peace of mind.

Pro tip: A high-quality 12 mil wear layer with aluminum oxide can be more durable than a basic 20 mil layer. At Floordi, we can help you understand the technology behind the numbers.

Timeless style: What color LVP flooring should you choose?

With so many options, picking a color that won't look dated is a top priority. Based on enduring design trends, these colors have lasting appeal:

• Light to medium browns: Classic, natural oak looks are the most timeless choice. They provide a warm, versatile foundation for any decor style.
• Warm neutrals: Soft beiges, taupes, and "greige" (a mix of grey and beige) are incredibly flexible and work with almost any color palette.
• Soft grays: Muted, versatile grays have become a "new neutral." They offer a modern-yet-classic feel that balances warm and cool tones.

Natural oak look colors for Avolis LVP flooring:

How to install LVP flooring: A quick guide

Most LVP today is installed using the floating floor (or click-lock) method. The planks connect to each other, not the subfloor, making it a popular DIY project.

1. Subfloor preparation is KEY: This is the most critical step. Your subfloor must be clean, dry, and perfectly flat. Most LVP failures, like peaking seams or separating planks, are caused by an uneven subfloor.
2. Acclimate the planks: Let the unopened boxes of LVP sit in the room for at least 48 hours to acclimate to the temperature and humidity.
3. Install the planks: Start along the longest wall, clicking the planks together row by row. Stagger the end joints for a natural look.
4. Finishing touches: Leave a small expansion gap around the perimeter of the room (which will be covered by baseboards) to allow the floor to expand and contract.

Your LVP questions answered: FAQs

1. What is LVP flooring made of?

LVP flooring is an engineered, multi-layered product. It consists of a protective top wear layer, a high-definition design layer (the wood look), a waterproof core (either WPC or SPC), and a backing layer, which often includes a pre-attached underlayment.

2. What color LVP flooring is timeless?

The most timeless LVP flooring colors are those that mimic natural wood, such as light to medium browns. Warm neutrals like soft beiges, taupes, and versatile "greige" (a mix of grey and beige) are also classic choices that won't go out of style.

3. Is LVP flooring completely waterproof?

The planks themselves are made of waterproof materials. However, the seams between planks are not hermetically sealed. While LVP is an excellent choice for wet areas, massive spills or flooding can still allow water to reach the subfloor underneath. A proper installation and a good vapor barrier over concrete are essential.

4. What is the thickest LVP flooring available?

Planks can be 8mm, 12mm, or even thicker. However, for durability, focus on the wear layer thickness. A 6.5mm plank with a 22 mil wear layer is more durable than an 8mm plank with a 12 mil wear layer.

5. What's the difference between LVP and standard vinyl plank?

The "Luxury" in LVP refers to its construction. LVP is a thick, rigid, multi-layered plank with a robust core and a high-definition print layer. Standard vinyl is typically a thinner, more flexible product with less realistic visuals and lower durability.

Is LVP flooring the right choice for you?

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring has rightfully earned its place as a top contender in the flooring world. It offers a nearly perfect balance of beauty, durability, water resistance, and value that is hard to beat.

It's an ideal solution for busy families, pet owners, and anyone who wants the stunning look of hardwood without the high cost and maintenance worries.

Ready to find the perfect LVP floor for your home?

Explore our curated collection of high-quality LVP flooring or contact our friendly experts at Floordi today. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Browse Our Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) Collections today!