Luxury vinyl flooring is one of the most popular flooring choices today. It’s stylish, durable, and can mimic everything from hardwood to stone. However, one detail that often gets overlooked during the buying process is thickness. How thick should your vinyl flooring be?
What’s the difference between a 2 mm and a 6 mm plank? The thickness you choose can impact everything from comfort to sound insulation and even long-term durability. So if you’re shopping for new floors in Glenwood Springs or Rifle, CO, here’s what you need to know.
Understand what thickness really means
When we talk about luxury vinyl flooring thickness, we’re referring to two parts:
· Total plank thickness: Measured in millimeters (mm), this includes the core of the plank and any built-in backing layer. Thicker planks are often sturdier and better for uneven subfloors.
· Wear layer thickness: This is the protective top layer. It’s usually measured in mils (not mm). A thicker wear layer helps protect your floors from scratches, dents, and daily wear and tear.
The trick is to balance both. A plank that’s 5 mm thick with a 20 mil wear layer is a great combo for most homes.
Match the thickness to the room’s needs
Not all rooms need the same kind of durability. Ask yourself:
· Is this a high-traffic area? For busy spaces like kitchens, hallways, or entryways, go for a minimum of 5 mm total thickness with a 12 mil or thicker wear layer.
· Is this for a second-floor room or condo? If you’re worried about sound, thicker planks with an attached underlayment can help dampen noise.
· Is this for a basement or an uneven floor? A thicker plank (6 mm or more) helps bridge minor imperfections in the subfloor and adds stability.
Thinner planks, like 2–3 mm, work well for light-traffic areas or quick updates. But they may not hold up as long.
Consider the installation method
Some luxury vinyl flooring options use a click-lock floating installation, while others are glue-down. Thickness can make a difference here.
· Click-lock floating floors usually start at 4 mm and go up. Thicker planks lock better and feel more solid underfoot.
· Glue-down floors can be thinner—sometimes even just 2 mm—but they need a perfectly smooth subfloor and are more permanent.
If you’re planning a DIY install, a click-lock floor with a mid-to-thick plank is often easier to work with.
Don’t forget comfort and warmth
A thicker luxury vinyl plank simply feels better. It has more give, feels less hollow, and retains heat better. This is especially helpful in Colorado’s cooler months. If you’re walking barefoot, playing with pets, or have kids crawling around, thickness makes a noticeable difference in comfort.
Check for attached underlayment
Some luxury vinyl floors come with a built-in underlayment or padding. This can add up to 1 mm or more to the total thickness. It also helps with:
· Sound reduction
· Thermal insulation
· Cushioning underfoot
If your product includes this layer, you may be able to go slightly thinner on the core plank and still get great performance.
Balance the budget with performance
Yes, thicker LVT and LVP flooring usually costs more. But they also last longer, perform better, and can raise your home’s resale value. That said, not every project needs the thickest, most heavy-duty planks available. In spare bedrooms or offices, a mid-range option can be a perfect fit.
Visit us for high-quality LVP and LVT flooring in Rifle and Glenwood Springs, CO
Still not sure what luxury vinyl flooring thickness is right for you? Our team at Network Interiors is happy to help. We’ll guide you through options, show you samples, and help you match flooring thickness to your home’s specific needs and budget. Our flooring stores in Rifle and Glenwood Springs, CO, serve Glenwood Springs, New Castle, Carbondale, Gypsum, Eagle, Aspen, Snowmass, Avon, Vail, and Basalt, CO.
