What Is the Best Vinyl Plank Flooring?

2023-11-10, Laura Nieto

Vinyl plank is the cool kid on the flooring block. Sleek, durable, waterproof, and cost-effective, it's not hard to see why homeowners are making the switch. But with so many options available, how do you decide on the best vinyl plank flooring for your space? We've got you covered.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

LVP is the crème de la crème of vinyl flooring. It's durable, realistic in appearance, and can be made to feel quite comfortable underfoot. All CALI Vinyl flooring collections are LVP. The category is like a big umbrella which encompasses a variety of floors, differentiated mainly by the type of core they contain – the two main types being rigid core and WPC.

Rigid Core

A rigid core luxury vinyl plank typically contains a fortifying layer of limestone composite which boosts the floor’s strength. The advancements in CALI Vinyl rigid core flooring hold direct, real-world benefits for customers. Superior indentation resistance helps planks withstand pet claws, falling objects, and heavy furniture. The rigid core makes planks extra stable and resistant to changes in home temperature and humidity. This makes the flooring suitable for every room in every season and climate. It means planks can be installed right out of the box without any acclimation wait time. The specialized rigid core also strengthens the click-lock milling system and makes it more precise for faster, easier installations.

Flooring Tip: Every CALI Vinyl floor except for Legends is a rigid core plank.

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Wood Polymer Composite

Like rigid core, WPC makes for a highly durable and waterproof luxury vinyl plank. The main difference is that the WPC composite delivers a thicker, foam-like core, which is still super strong but offers other unique benefits. There's its inherent comfort— with a thicker plank, WPC offers a softer feel underfoot compared to rigid core options. WPC also ensures reduced noise transmission, offering a quieter step. In comparison to rigid core luxury vinyl plank, WPC tends to deliver a blend of comfort and resilience that's hard to beat. This makes it a premium product that typically comes at a higher price point.

Flooring Tip: The CALI Vinyl Legends collection offers a premium WPC plank.

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How to Find the Best Vinyl Plank Flooring

Plenty of brands offer LVP, but there’s quite a range when it comes to quality. Be sure to look for the following attributes in order to purchase confidently and know you’re getting a product that will stand the test of time. With these features in mind, you'll be well-equipped to find the best vinyl plank flooring that's both stylish and durable. Learn more about different types of LVP here.

Wear Layer: One of the most crucial features to consider is the thickness of the wear layer. A good benchmark? Look for a wear layer that's at least 20 mil thick. This ensures your floor is armed against scratches, dings, and daily wear, extending its lifespan.

Click-Lock Milling: A flooring's stability is only as good as its locking system. Aim for a rapid click-lock mechanism. It not only makes installation a breeze but also ensures your planks stay put without unwanted gaps or shifts.

EIR Texture: If you want a floor that mirrors the authentic look of natural wood, then Embossed in Register (EIR) texture is key. This feature adds special texturing to the plank that matches up with the knots and grains you see. It brings depth and detail to your planks, making them feel and look more like genuine hardwood.

Attached Padding: Comfort underfoot and reduced noise? Yes, please! Look for vinyl plank flooring with attached IXPE padding. It provides that extra layer of acoustic insulation and enhances the overall feel of the floor, ensuring every step is comfortable.

FloorScore Certification: Health is wealth, and that's true for flooring too. A FloorScore certification means the floor meets rigorous standards for indoor air quality. In other words, it ensures your chosen floor is safe for your home, free from harmful emissions.

Our Recommendation for the Best Vinyl Plank Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring is a game-changer in the world of home design. Durable, beautiful, and budget-friendly, it's a solid choice for modern living. When seeking the best vinyl plank flooring, remember to consider durability, appearance, and ease of installation. But if you ask us, with brands like CALI offering high-quality LVP, the choice becomes a whole lot simpler. Durable, stunning, and affordable, every CALI Vinyl collection checks the boxes for a top recommendation in luxury vinyl plank flooring, made for resilient and beautiful home transformations.