What is LVP Flooring? A Complete Guide to Luxury Vinyl Plank for Durable, Stylish Homes

What is LVP flooring? LVP stands for luxury vinyl plank, a high-performance, waterproof flooring solution that replicates the texture and appearance of natural hardwood. This modern vinyl flooring material has gained immense popularity among homeowners who seek a durable yet aesthetically appealing alternative to traditional flooring. If you’re wondering what is LVP flooring and whether it’s right for your home, this in-depth guide from S&E Remodeling Inc. covers everything you need to know.

Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring

What does “LVP” stand for?

LVP is short for luxury vinyl plank, a premium category within vinyl flooring that delivers the look of hardwood with far superior water resistance and durability.

How it differs from standard vinyl

Traditional vinyl flooring typically comes in thin, flexible sheets or vinyl tiles. In contrast, LVP:

Comes in rigid or semi-rigid planks
Mimics wood grain and texture
Offers higher wear resistance and a more realistic appearance
Is available in both glue-down and floating varieties

Basic composition: wear layer, core, and backing

Each LVP floor is composed of multiple layers:

Wear Layer: Transparent top layer that resists scratches, stains, and UV damage
Decorative Layer: Printed image that gives the plank its realistic wood appearance
Core Layer: Provides structure; can be WPC (wood plastic composite) or SPC (stone plastic composite)
Backing Layer: Enhances stability, sound absorption, and moisture resistance

Benefits of LVP Flooring

Durability and water resistance

Scratch-resistant surface is ideal for active households
100% waterproof, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
Handles pet accidents, spills, and heavy foot traffic without warping or buckling

Affordability compared to hardwood

Offers the high-end look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost
Minimal maintenance costs over time
No need for sanding, refinishing, or waxing

Easy installation (click-lock or glue-down)

Click-lock systems enable floating installation over most existing floors
Glue-down options provide added stability for commercial or high-traffic areas
Faster and cleaner than installing tile or hardwood

Wide range of styles and realistic finishes

Available in a variety of wood species like oak, maple, walnut, and hickory
Comes in multiple lengths and plank widths
Realistic textures including hand-scraped and embossed-in-register finishes

Low maintenance needs

Sweep and mop regularly with a pH-neutral cleaner
No specialized tools or cleaning agents required
Resistant to fading, cracking, and stains

How LVP Flooring is Made

Multi-layer construction explained

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is engineered with four to five layers, each serving a unique purpose:

UV-Coated Wear Layer – Provides scratch and stain resistance
Decorative Print Layer – Offers realistic visuals
Core Layer (WPC or SPC) – Gives structure and durability
Attached Underlayment – Optional, enhances sound absorption and comfort

Role of each layer

Wear Layer: Protects against scuffs and scratches
Decorative Layer: Adds beauty and realism
Core Layer: Determines flexibility, thickness, and resistance to moisture
Backing: Adds comfort and sound insulation

Differences in thickness and wear layer ratings

Level	Plank Thickness	Wear Layer	Best For
Entry	2mm – 3.2mm	6 – 8 mil	Low-traffic homes
Mid	4mm – 5mm	12 – 20 mil	Average households
Premium	6mm – 8mm+	22 – 28 mil	High-traffic & pets

Thicker planks with higher wear layers ensure long-term resilience and comfort.

LVP Flooring vs. Other Flooring Types

LVP vs. Laminate

LVP is waterproof; laminate is moisture-resistant at best
LVP is quieter and softer underfoot
Laminate requires special cleaning; LVP doesn’t

LVP vs. Tile

LVP is warmer and more forgiving underfoot
Easier and faster to install than tile
More budget-friendly than ceramic or porcelain

LVP vs. Hardwood

Hardwood is prone to scratches and moisture damage
LVP provides similar visuals with better durability
Less expensive and easier to maintain

LVP vs. SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)

SPC flooring has a rigid stone-based core, making it denser and harder
LVP (especially WPC core) is more comfortable underfoot
Both are waterproof and visually similar, but SPC flooring is preferred for high-traffic commercial settings

Key takeaways on budget, durability, comfort, and aesthetics

Budget: LVP is an economical choice for residential flooring
Durability: Both LVP and SPC are top-tier vinyl products
Comfort: LVP with WPC core offers superior comfort
Style: Realistic visuals in LVP match various design aesthetics

Where to Use LVP in Your Home

Ideal rooms

Kitchens and dining areas
Bathrooms and laundry rooms
Entryways and mudrooms
Basements and finished garages

Why it’s a popular choice for full-home flooring

Seamless appearance across rooms
Reduces need for transitions and thresholds
Complements various interior styles and vinyl flooring designs

Integration with existing subfloor types

Can be installed over concrete, plywood, or old vinyl flooring
Suitable for radiant heat systems (check specs)
Minimal subfloor prep required if level and dry

Signs You Should Upgrade to LVP Flooring

Outdated flooring in moisture-prone areas

Old carpet or laminate showing water damage
Tile grout discoloration or cracking

Cracking, warping, or staining in current floors

Hardwood boards lifting or gapping
Vinyl tiles peeling or curling from the edges

Renovations or modern aesthetic upgrades

New cabinetry, wall paint, or lighting often demands fresh flooring
LVP complements minimalist, rustic, or contemporary designs

Budget-friendly remodels with premium visual appeal

Ideal for flip houses or rentals
Raises perceived home value without raising costs

Installation Considerations

Subfloor preparation

Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level
Remove any loose debris or protrusions
Use self-leveling compound for uneven surfaces

Floating vs. glue-down methods

Floating (click-lock): Fast and easy for most homes
Glue-down: Better for large, open spaces or commercial areas

Timeframe and labor factors

Most homes can be completed in 1–3 days
No drying time required unlike tile or glue-based vinyl plank products

How S&E Remodeling helps coordinate flooring upgrades

We manage every detail—removal of old floors, subfloor prep, and precision LVP installation. Our team ensures transitions between rooms are smooth and the final finish reflects top-tier craftsmanship.

Maintaining and Cleaning LVP Floors

Daily and weekly cleaning best practices

Dry sweep or vacuum (no brush rolls)
Mop with water and mild detergent
Avoid wax or oil-based products

Preventing scratches and damage

Add felt pads to furniture legs
Use mats at entryways
Keep pet nails trimmed

Life expectancy of LVP flooring

Typically 10–25 years depending on quality and care
Premium LVP products with thick wear layers offer the best longevity

Is LVP Flooring Right for Your Home?

Summary of benefits

Water-resistant
Visually stunning luxury vinyl appearance
Affordable
Comfortable
Easy to install and maintain

When it’s the best value choice

For families with kids or pets
In moisture-prone or high-traffic areas
When you want beauty without the cost

When to consider alternatives

If you want genuine hardwood for resale appeal
Extremely high-impact industrial use may require harder flooring

How S&E Remodeling Supports Home Renovation Projects

Overview of our home improvement services

At S&E Remodeling Inc., we do more than flooring. From kitchens and bathrooms to decks and full-scale remodeling, we are a one-stop contractor serving Western Washington homeowners with unmatched professionalism.

How we assist with structural prep before flooring

We repair uneven subfloors
Address moisture or mold issues before installation
Make sure every surface is perfectly ready for your new LVP floor

Coordinating roofing and floor upgrades for efficient remodels

Our unique expertise in roofing and remodeling allows us to plan seamless transitions—from protecting your home during roof replacements to installing new LVP flooring in a clean, climate-controlled interior.

Frequently Asked Questions About LVP Flooring

What is LVP flooring and why is it popular?

What is LVP flooring? It’s a multi-layered synthetic floor that looks like hardwood but is waterproof, durable, and cost-effective—making it ideal for modern homes.

Is LVP flooring really waterproof?

Yes. Most LVP products are 100% waterproof, especially those made with SPC or WPC core materials. They perform well in kitchens and bathrooms.

How long does LVP flooring last?

Depending on quality and care, LVP flooring typically lasts 10 to 25 years.

Can I install LVP over my existing floor?

In many cases, yes. LVP can be installed over tile, vinyl flooring, and even hardwood if the surface is level and clean.

Does LVP flooring increase home value?

Yes. While it may not add as much value as genuine hardwood, LVP flooring improves the visual appeal and durability of your floors.

Is LVP pet-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean—ideal for households with dogs or cats.

How much does LVP flooring cost?

Prices vary. On average, material costs range from $2 to $5 per square foot, with total installation ranging from $4 to $8 per square foot.

Contact S&E Remodeling Inc.

Since 2018, S&E Remodeling Inc. has proudly served Western Washington with quality home remodeling services. Founded by Yaniv Livnat, our company was built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and hard work. We’re a family-run business, and we treat every customer like part of the family.

Our team is fully licensed and certified by the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (License #SEREMRI822BE). Each crew member is trained, certified, and equipped with the latest tools and materials to ensure excellence in every project.

We believe quality shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we use only manufacturer-direct materials, offering affordable pricing without compromising craftsmanship. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or installing new LVP flooring, we make the process simple and smooth—from transparent quotes to jobsite cleanup and final inspection.

Service Areas:

King County: Bellevue, Redmond, Kent, Auburn, Renton
Pierce County: Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood, Gig Harbor, Bonney Lake
Snohomish & Thurston Counties: Everett, Olympia, Lacey

Choose S&E Remodeling Inc. for craftsmanship that lasts and service you can trust.