7 Mistakes People Make When Buying Luxury Vinyl Plank

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is one of the best values in home improvement today. However, buyers sometimes make mistakes that lead to disappointing results.

Here are seven common mistakes to avoid when choosing LVP.

Kaneohe Bay (available in 5mm 20mil and 6mm 22mil)

#1 Choosing the Wrong Wear Layer

The wear layer protects the floor from scratches and damage.

• For most homes, experts recommend at least a 12 mil wear layer.

• Lower wear layers may not hold up well in busy households.

#2 Buying Based Only on Price

While cheaper flooring may look similar at first, lower-quality products often have weaker locking systems or thinner cores.

Investing slightly more upfront can prevent future problems.

#3 Ignoring Thickness

Thicker LVP planks feel more solid underfoot and help hide minor subfloor imperfections.

Most contractors recommend:

• 5-6mm total thickness for residential and light commercial use.

#4 Choosing Trendy Colors

Extremely trendy colors can make a home feel dated quickly.

Neutral wood tones like natural oak or light blonde oak tend to age better.

#5 Skipping Proper Acclimation

Allowing flooring to acclimate before installation helps prevent expansion or contraction problems later.

#6 Poor Subfloor Preparation

Even the best flooring can fail if installed over an uneven subfloor.

Contractors typically ensure the surface is:

• Clean

• Level

• Dry

before installation.

#7 Buying From the Wrong Supplier

Product quality and consistency can vary widely between suppliers.

Working with a trusted flooring provider ensures you get reliable materials and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts

Luxury Vinyl Plank is an excellent flooring option, but choosing the right product and supplier makes all the difference.

By avoiding these common mistakes, homeowners and contractors can install floors that look great and last for years.