Celebrated for its durability and versatility, LVP, or luxury vinyl plank flooring, is quite popular among homeowners as well as flooring contractors. Though the cost ranges between $2 and $7 on average, the true price of installing LVP flooring depends on things like the quality of the planks, their thickness, and whether you choose to hire professionals or DIY the project for custom floor installation. If you’re building your first home or looking for a budget-friendly yet stylish option for your floor renovation, this blog provides a detailed look at the true cost of luxury vinyl plank flooring.
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost
Affordable Hardwood Floor Refinishing has helped countless homeowners lay down their dream floor over the years, making us experts on price calculations in South Bend, IN, and surrounding areas. If you’re also planning on LVP for your home, here is what will influence your budget. Learn more about Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Cost as we discuss it below:
Take notes as we reveal exactly how much you’d have to spend on your luxury vinyl plank flooring.
The Wear Layer
This is the top coat of the vinyl planks, which protects them from friction and abrasions that can damage the planks. For a high-quality luxury vinyl plank flooring cost with a thicker wear layer of about 20 mils or higher, expect to pay $6 or more per square foot on installation alone.
But if you’re going for something with a thinner wear layer of about 4-12 mils, expect to pay between $5 and $12 per square foot.
Plank Thickness
The thicker the plank, the higher the luxury vinyl plank flooring cost. This is because a thicker vinyl plank will absorb more sound, be more comfortable underfoot, and last longer. If that’s what you want, then expect to spend more on your luxury vinyl planks.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for thinner planks for less traffic-prone areas of the house, like hallways or closets, the luxury vinyl plank flooring cost of the material will be on the lower end of the spectrum.
The Core
This is what gives your floors their rigidity and durability. The cost of your materials also depends on the type of core you select.
For example, a wood plastic composite core will cost you less due to the fragility of the material, while an SPC core will reside much higher on the price range due to its sturdiness and longer lifespan.
The Design
The best thing about LVP is that it mimics natural stone and wood. This gives homeowners rustic or even classic flooring without the fear of moisture damage that comes with it.
So, if the pattern is more complex or more natural-looking, expect to pay more for your flooring material. But for simpler designs, the luxury vinyl plank flooring cost will be lower.
Installation Prices
Okay, so this is where you can really save up or crank up the luxury vinyl plank flooring cost. If you have some decent DIY skills, taking on the job yourself will save you hundreds in floor installation costs.
But if you prefer the smoothness of a professional finish, you’re going to have to invest hundreds more in your flooring project instead.
Method of Installation
If you went for the dry back LVP because it looked more pocket-friendly, then prepare to drop more on installation costs, as it requires superior skills to effectively lay down.
However, if you went with the pre-adhered style, then you’re likely not spending that much when it comes to laying down your flooring.
The Area
It stands to reason, if it’s a simple hallway or a rectangular room, the Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring cost of installation won’t be as high.
Conversely, if the room has an unusual cut, your flooring technicians will have to make meticulous calculations and precise cuts to fit your vinyl planks, bumping up the cost.
Removing Old Flooring
If it’s a replacement project you’re having done, expect the contractors to charge extra to remove the old flooring material.
But, if it’s a new construction, there won’t be any need for that, and it will, obviously, cost you less.
The Subfloor
Finally, the condition of the subfloor can also influence the final luxury vinyl plank cost. If the floor is dry and in good condition, there won’t be any issues.
But if the flooring contractors tear up the old floor to reveal soft, moisture-damaged underlayment and subfloors, prepare to pay extra for the repairs and replacements.
Conclusion
In short, luxury vinyl plank varies depending on quite a few factors. While the average cost may be around $2-$7, things like the quality of the material, local labor costs, and the condition of your subfloors play a huge role in determining the final price. We hope this blog helped you budget better for your flooring project. For more guidance, feel free to ask.
FAQs
1: How do I clean my vinyl floor?
Regularly sweep and vacuum, and use a specialized solution whenever you mop to clean your floors.
2: Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Only certain types of vinyl plank flooring, which have a WPC or SPC core, are waterproof.
3: How long does LVP last?
Depending on quality, thickness, maintenance, and subfloors, it can last anywhere from 10-25 years or more.
4: Can luxury vinyl plank be installed over existing flooring?
Yes, LVP can be installed over most hard surfaces like tile or concrete, as long as the base is clean and level.
5: Does LVP flooring increase home value?
Yes, high-quality LVP can boost your home’s aesthetic appeal and resale value due to its durability and modern design.