
When you are selecting waterproof flooring, it is crucial to understand not only the LVP wear layer, but how the floor is put together and how the individual parts work together. Waterproof flooring, or LVP flooring, is comprised of several layers: a backing, central core layer, top printed/textured layer, and finally the wear layer. Each layer provides crucial performance factors to the flooring:
- LVP backing is typically made of foam or cork.
- The central core is a mix of PVC and wood flour or limestone powder.
- Near the top of the flooring, lies the realistic textured design layer.
- The top layer is the super-durable wear layer.
So, What Is an LVP Wear Layer?
The wear layer is a final, clear coat that covers the photo-realistic layers on the top of the vinyl plank. The wear layer protects the printed layer from wear and tear and general damage. This layer contains most of the protection for the floor, thus, the wear layer plays a key role in determining the longevity and life of your floor: the thicker the wear layer, the greater protection and life. Similarly, when looking at floor warranties, the thicker the wear layer, the longer the manufacturer and/or flooring store will warranty the product.
How Do You Measure an LVP Wear Layer?
Wear layers are typically measured in thousands of an inch, for example .1 mil = 1/1000th of an inch, or “1 mil”. A 20 Mil wear layer is .5mm. Any LVP you purchase should clearly indicate how thick is the wear layer. For example, the WPC pro line in Lux Premier flooring, only available at Taylor Carpets and Flooring, you will see a 28 mil wear layer, or .07 mm.
What Size or Thickness Should a Typical LVP Wear Layer Be?
Some manufacturers recommend 6 to 8 mil, or .02 mm. Typically, this amount of wear layer has a only 10-year warranty for home, and no warranty for commercial applications. Many stores will attempt to persuade you that a 12 mil (.03 mm) wear layer is sufficient for residential or commercial use. Keep in mind that many manufacturers do not warranty LVP flooring for commercial use until 20 mils. As the wear layer is the only thing protecting the photo finish layer from scratches, dings and the elements, the thicker wear layer, the better. The industry standard is one year per mil.
What is Ceramic Bead Surface?
Some products, like those in the Lux Premier line at Taylor Carpets and Flooring in Provo and Lehi, have a ceramic bead surface to make the product more scratch resistant. This ceramic bead surface is incorporated into the wear layer, or added on top of the wear layer, for added protection for the floor. Most of the products at Taylor Carpets and Flooring, such as the Lux Premier lines all have ceramic bead protection.
Final Thoughts:
Before you make a final decision on the perfect LVP floor for your home, consider how much traffic your floor gets, how much protection you believe is necessary, and finally how much of a warranty you believe you will need.
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