Understanding LVP Thickness and Wear Layers: How to Choose the Right Flooring for Your Home

1. What is LVP Thickness?

LVP thickness refers to the full plank thickness, measured in millimeters (mm). Thicker planks feel more stable underfoot and can help with sound insulation.

Thickness	Best For
2–4 mm	Budget-friendly, low-traffic rooms
4–6 mm	Standard residential—bedrooms, offices
6–8+ mm	High-traffic areas, premium look & feel

2. What is the Wear Layer?

The wear layer is a clear protective coating on top of the vinyl plank that guards against scratches, scuffs, and dents. It’s measured in mils (thousandths of an inch). A thicker wear layer equals longer-lasting protection.

Wear Layer	Best For
6 mil	Low-traffic rooms (guest bedrooms)
12 mil	Typical residential use (living rooms, kitchens)
20 mil	High-traffic homes, pet-friendly spaces
28 mil+	Commercial or heavy-use areas

3. How to Choose the Right Combination

Room Type	Recommended Plank Thickness	Recommended Wear Layer
Bedroom	4–6 mm	6–12 mil
Living Room & Dining	5–7 mm	12–20 mil
Kitchen & Entryways	6–8 mm	20 mil
Basement / Rental Unit	6–8 mm	20 mil + waterproof
Home Office	4–6 mm	12–20 mil

4. Final Tips

✅ Thicker LVP feels more like hardwood and reduces noise.

✅ Thicker wear layers provide more durability—ideal for pets, kids, and rental properties.

✅ Choose based on traffic level, room function, and budget.

Conclusion: By understanding LVP thickness and wear layer options, you’ll be able to choose flooring that not only looks great but holds up beautifully for years. Need help picking the right product? Our team is here to guide you—reach out anytime!

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