What Is LVP Flooring? Luxury Vinyl Plank Explained

LVP stands for luxury vinyl plank. It is a vinyl floor made in long planks with a photographic wood look on top and a clear wear layer protecting it. Most LVP sold today has a rigid core and clicks together, floating over the subfloor without glue.

Wear layer: the clear top coat, measured in mil, that resists scratches.

Print layer: the wood or stone look.

Core: SPC (stone plastic composite, dense and rigid) or WPC (a foamed core, softer underfoot).

Backing: many planks have an attached pad for comfort and sound.

SPC rigid core: waterproof, dent resistant, stable in heat. The most popular choice for Texas homes on slabs.

WPC: waterproof, softer and quieter, usually more expensive.

Glue-down vinyl plank: thin and low-profile, glued to the slab; common in rentals and commercial spaces.

Loose-lay: heavy planks that lie flat with grip backing.

Hardwood: real wood, but scratches, dents and reacts to water. LVP gives the look with far less upkeep.

Laminate: a wood-fiber core that can swell if water gets into the seams. We focus on vinyl plank for that reason.

Sheet vinyl: cheaper rolls, but a less realistic look and harder to repair.

Wear layer: 12 mil for budget rooms, 20 mil for most homes and pets, 22 to 28 mil for big dogs, busy homes and light commercial.

Core: rigid core (SPC) for most Texas homes.

Plank size: wide, long planks (like 9 by 60 inches) make rooms look bigger.

Running line vs closeout: a running line can be reordered later to add a room or replace planks.

5mm / 12 mil: $1.70 per sq ft.

Made in USA 5mm / 20 mil: $1.99 per sq ft for in-stock colors.

Made in USA 6.5mm / 22 mil wide plank: $2.79 per sq ft.

8mm / 28 mil wide plank: $3.49 per sq ft.

Installed by our own insured crews for $1.75 per sq ft, usually the same week. Both stores have samples of every plank: 2919 Mary Ave in Waco, (254) 332-2272, and 126 Holmes Rd Unit 24 in Liberty Hill, (512) 355-5120.