The Best Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Brands: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to choosing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, the decision is often overwhelming due to the wide array of options available in the market. Luxury vinyl plank flooring has gained immense popularity for its affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance, all while providing the aesthetic appeal of real wood or stone. Whether you're renovating your home or designing a new space, selecting the best LVP flooring involves considering various factors such as quality, style, price, and installation method.

What is Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a type of vinyl flooring designed to mimic the look of natural wood or stone. Unlike traditional vinyl flooring, LVP comes in planks rather than sheets, allowing for a more authentic and realistic appearance. The planks are made of multiple layers, including a wear layer, a design layer, a core layer, and a backing layer, which contribute to the flooring's durability, comfort, and resistance to water and stains.

Top Considerations When Choosing LVP Flooring

1. Durability and Wear Layer
   The durability of LVP flooring is largely determined by the thickness of its wear layer. A thicker wear layer provides better protection against scratches, dents, and other forms of wear and tear. For high-traffic areas, it's recommended to choose LVP with a wear layer of at least 20 mils (0.5 mm). Premium options may offer wear layers up to 30 mils or more, providing superior durability.

2. Water Resistance
   One of the key advantages of LVP flooring is its water resistance, making it ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Some brands offer 100% waterproof LVP flooring, which ensures that the planks won't swell, warp, or peel when exposed to water.

3. Style and Design
   LVP flooring is available in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic for your space. Whether you prefer the look of rustic oak, modern gray tones, or classic marble, there is an LVP option to suit your taste. Additionally, some brands offer embossed-in-register (EIR) technology, which creates a more realistic wood grain texture that closely matches the design layer.

4. Ease of Installation
   Many LVP products feature easy-to-install click-lock systems, which allow for a floating floor installation without the need for glue or nails. This makes it a great option for DIY enthusiasts. However, if you prefer professional installation, some LVP products can be glued down for added stability.

5. Price
   The price of LVP flooring varies depending on the brand, quality, and features. While there are budget-friendly options available, investing in a higher-quality product can provide better durability and a more authentic appearance. Prices typically range from $2 to $7 per square foot, with premium products costing more.

Top Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Brands

Now that we've covered the key considerations, let's explore some of the top brands that offer high-quality luxury vinyl plank flooring.

1. Shaw Floors

Shaw Floors is a well-known name in the flooring industry, offering a wide range of LVP options that combine style, durability, and innovation. Their Floorté and Floorté Pro collections are particularly popular, featuring waterproof designs and enhanced durability for both residential and commercial spaces.

• Pros: High-quality wear layers, wide variety of styles, waterproof options, eco-friendly manufacturing.
• Cons: Can be on the pricier side compared to other brands.

2. COREtec

COREtec is often regarded as one of the pioneers of waterproof LVP flooring. Their products are known for their durability and comfort, featuring a cork underlayment that provides sound insulation and a warmer feel underfoot. The COREtec Plus and COREtec Pro lines are popular choices for homeowners and businesses alike.

• Pros: 100% waterproof, cork underlayment for comfort and sound absorption, realistic wood and stone designs.
• Cons: Slightly higher price point, limited availability in some areas.

3. Mohawk

Mohawk is another leading brand in the flooring industry, known for its innovative technologies and high-quality products. The SolidTech line offers superior water resistance and durability, making it a great choice for families with kids and pets.

• Pros: Advanced waterproof technology, scratch and stain resistance, wide range of styles.
• Cons: Some products may be more difficult to install, limited options in the budget range.

4. Armstrong Flooring

Armstrong Flooring has a long history of producing reliable and durable flooring solutions. Their Luxe Plank and Vivero collections are highly regarded for their durability, easy installation, and realistic wood and stone designs.

• Pros: Durable construction, easy installation options, realistic designs.
• Cons: Mid-to-high price range, fewer color options compared to competitors.

5. Karndean Designflooring

Karndean is known for its high-end, luxury vinyl flooring that offers a unique and sophisticated look. Their Korlok and Van Gogh collections are particularly popular for their large plank sizes and realistic textures.

• Pros: High-quality and unique designs, large plank sizes, durable wear layers.
• Cons: Higher price point, may require professional installation for best results.

6. NuCore

NuCore is a relatively new player in the LVP market but has quickly gained a reputation for offering affordable, high-quality flooring with a focus on water resistance. Their products feature a thick wear layer and a waterproof core, making them ideal for homes with active families.

• Pros: Affordable pricing, waterproof core, easy DIY installation.
• Cons: Limited design options, lower overall durability compared to premium brands.

7. Mannington

Mannington offers a range of LVP flooring options that are known for their durability and style. The Adura and Adura Max collections are popular for their water resistance and realistic wood and stone designs.

• Pros: Durable and water-resistant, realistic designs, easy to clean and maintain.
• Cons: Higher price point, fewer options in lower price ranges.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best LVP Flooring for Your Home

When it comes to selecting the best luxury vinyl plank flooring, it's important to consider your specific needs, budget, and style preferences. Whether you're looking for the most durable option for a high-traffic area, a waterproof solution for a bathroom or kitchen, or a budget-friendly choice for a large project, there is an LVP brand that can meet your requirements.

Shaw Floors and COREtec are excellent choices for those seeking top-tier quality and durability, while NuCore and Mannington offer more affordable options without compromising on performance. Karndean is ideal for those who prioritize unique and luxurious designs, while Mohawk and Armstrong provide reliable, versatile options that cater to a wide range of styles and budgets.

Ultimately, the best LVP flooring for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering factors such as durability, water resistance, style, ease of installation, and price, you can confidently choose the perfect luxury vinyl plank flooring to enhance the beauty and functionality of your space.