When homeowners start shopping for luxury vinyl plank (LVP), they tend to ask: “What thickness of LVP is recommended?”
It’s a good thing to wonder about. Thickness contributes to durability, comfort and long-term performance. With so many flooring options available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.
Floors2Day’s co-owner, Joe, explains what thickness is best for most homes and why staying within the right range makes a noticeable difference.
Joe’s Take: The Ideal range for Quality LVP
“Most of the LVP flooring we provide to customers is anywhere from five to seven millimeters thick. Typically, five to six.”
According to Joe, the sweet spot for LVP thickness is between 5–7 mm. However, most homeowners are comfortable with 5–6 mm.
Going with this thickness balances:
- Stability
- Comfort
- Durability
- Installation ease
- Waterproof performance
Choosing LVP within this thickness range is suitable for residential use. It holds up well in everyday life.
Why 5-6mm Thickness Works best
“It gives us the malleability for a good installation, still very durable and obviously waterproof.”
The flooring team at Floors2Day installs LVP every day. Over time, we have found that 5–6 mm performs best. Here’s why:
- Better Installation Flexibility: Because the range isn’t too stiff or too thin, it’s easier to click together evenly and cleanly.
- Strong, Stable and Durable: Thicker planks stand up to foot traffic, pets and furniture better than thin alternatives.
- Feels Better Underfoot: It adds slight cushioning and reduces noise, especially in multi-level homes.
- Waterproof Performance: Thickness supports the waterproof core, which is one of LVP’s biggest selling points.
Basically, 5-6 mm is the best thickness of vinyl planks for homes that need durable and comfortable flooring without breaking the bank.
What Happens If LVP is Too Thin?
“If you start getting below that five millimeter thickness, you’re probably not getting the most durable floor… we’re digging into the integrity of that long-term.”
Thin LVP has a low price tag, but you get what you pay for. When you choose planks under 5 mm, you take the following risks:
- Weaker Locking Mechanisms: Thin planks are more likely to break during the installation process.
- Shows Imperfections: Uneven subfloors are more visible beneath thin planks.
- Less Durable in High-Traffic Areas: Dent marks, shifting and movement are more common.
- Shorter Lifespan: Thin floors are replaced sooner than their counterparts.
Floors2Day recommends avoiding products under 5 mm. You take the risk of not getting the long-term value that comes with a thicker product.
When Thicker Planks Make Sense
Some homeowners opt for LVP in the 6-7mm range. It’s not necessary for everyone, but it does have its perks such as:
- Added comfort underfoot
- Better sound absorption
- Extra stability across larger open areas
- Slightly more forgiveness over imperfect subfloors
Thicker options provide flexibility and waterproof performance, while simultaneously offering a more premium feel.
Shop for LVP That’s Thick for Your Needs
Which LVP thickness is right for you? For most, people 5-6 mm should suffice. However, if you’re unsure, you can always reach out to the Floors2Day team. We will help you choose Vinyl flooring that works with your lifestyle and budget.
If you want to get started Contact us to book a shop-at-home consultation or visit us at our Flooring Store in Kenosha, WI today!
