8mm Vinyl Plank Flooring: The Ultimate Guide

If you're in the market for new flooring, you may have heard about 8mm vinyl plank flooring. This type of flooring has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. But what exactly is it, and how does it compare to other types of flooring? In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about 8mm vinyl plank flooring.

What is 8mm Vinyl Plank Flooring?

8mm vinyl plank flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) that mimics the look and feel of hardwood flooring. It's made up of several layers, including a wear layer, a printed design layer, a core layer, and a backing layer. The wear layer is what protects the flooring from scratches and scuffs, while the design layer gives it its realistic appearance. The core layer provides stability to the planks, and the backing layer adds additional support.

One of the main advantages of 8mm vinyl plank flooring is its thickness. At 8mm thick, it's more durable than thinner LVF options, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children. Additionally, it's often more affordable than hardwood flooring, making it an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Like any flooring option, 8mm vinyl plank flooring comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the main pros and cons to consider:

Advantages

• Durability: As mentioned, 8mm vinyl plank flooring is thicker and more durable than thinner LVF options.
• Realistic appearance: Thanks to advances in printing technology, 8mm vinyl plank flooring can mimic the look and texture of real hardwood flooring.
• Easy to install: Many 8mm vinyl plank flooring options come with a click-and-lock installation system, making it easy for homeowners to install themselves.
• Low maintenance: Unlike hardwood flooring, 8mm vinyl plank flooring doesn't require regular refinishing or polishing.
• Affordable: In most cases, 8mm vinyl plank flooring is less expensive than hardwood flooring.

Disadvantages

• Not as eco-friendly as hardwood: While 8mm vinyl plank flooring is often made from recycled materials, it's not as sustainable as real hardwood flooring.
• Can be prone to fading: If exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time, 8mm vinyl plank flooring can fade over time.
• Not as valuable as hardwood: While 8mm vinyl plank flooring can mimic the look of real hardwood flooring, it may not add the same value to your home as real hardwood would.

Installation

One of the biggest advantages of 8mm vinyl plank flooring is how easy it is to install. Many options come with a click-and-lock installation system, which means that the planks simply snap together without the need for glue or nails. This makes it an ideal flooring option for DIYers who want to save money on installation costs.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind when installing 8mm vinyl plank flooring:

• Make sure the subfloor is clean and level before ing installation.
• Use a tapping block and rubber mallet to ensure that each plank is securely locked into place.
• Leave a small gap around the edges of the room to allow for expansion and contraction.
• Consider using transition strips between rooms or areas with different types of flooring.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Another advantage of 8mm vinyl plank flooring is that it's low-maintenance compared to other types of flooring. Here are some tips for keeping your 8mm vinyl plank flooring looking its best:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Use a damp mop with a mild cleaner to clean the flooring.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools, as these can damage the wear layer.

Styles and Colors

8mm vinyl plank flooring comes in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing homeowners to choose a look that fits their personal style. Some popular styles include:

• Hickory: This style mimics the look of hickory hardwood flooring, with its warm, natural tones and distinctive grain pattern.
• Oak: Oak is a classic flooring choice, and 8mm vinyl plank flooring allows homeowners to achieve the look of oak without the high cost.
• Reclaimed wood: If you love the rustic look of reclaimed wood, 8mm vinyl plank flooring can give you that same aesthetic without the worry of splinters or rotting wood.

Brands to Consider

There are many brands of 8mm vinyl plank flooring on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. Here are some top-rated options to consider:

• Shaw Floors: Shaw offers a wide range of 8mm vinyl plank flooring options, including those with a waterproof core for added durability.
• Armstrong Flooring: Armstrong's Luxe Plank line of 8mm vinyl plank flooring is known for its realistic appearance and easy installation.
• Mohawk Industries: Mohawk's SolidTech line of 8mm vinyl plank flooring is designed to be extra thick and durable, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.

If you're looking for an affordable, durable, and stylish flooring option, 8mm vinyl plank flooring is definitely worth considering. With its realistic appearance, easy installation, and low maintenance, it's no wonder that this type of flooring has been gaining popularity in recent years.

FAQ

Q1. Is 8mm vinyl plank flooring waterproof?

Not all 8mm vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, but many options do have a waterproof core that makes them more resistant to moisture than other types of LVF.

Q2. How long does 8mm vinyl plank flooring last?

With proper maintenance and care, 8mm vinyl plank flooring can last for 10-20 years or more.

Q3. Can you install 8mm vinyl plank flooring over existing flooring?

In most cases, yes. However, it's important to make sure that the subfloor is clean, level, and free from any damage before installing new 8mm vinyl plank flooring.

Q4. Can 8mm vinyl plank flooring be installed in bathrooms or other high-moisture areas?

Yes, many 8mm vinyl plank flooring options are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof, making them a great choice for bathrooms and other high-moisture areas.

Q5. Is 8mm vinyl plank flooring safe for pets and children?

Yes, 8mm vinyl plank flooring is a great choice for homes with pets and children, as it's durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.

Q6. Does 8mm vinyl plank flooring require underlayment?

It depends on the specific type of 8mm vinyl plank flooring you choose. Some options come with an attached underlayment, while others require a separate underlayment to be installed.

Q7. Can you refinish 8mm vinyl plank flooring?

No, 8mm vinyl plank flooring cannot be refinished like hardwood flooring. If the wear layer becomes damaged or worn, the entire plank will need to be replaced.

Q8. How much does 8mm vinyl plank flooring cost per square foot?

The cost of 8mm vinyl plank flooring varies depending on the brand and style, but it typically ranges from $2-$5 per square foot.

Q9. Can you install 8mm vinyl plank flooring on stairs?

Yes, many brands of 8mm vinyl plank flooring offer stair nose pieces that can be used to finish off the edges of stairs.

Q10. How do you remove stains from 8mm vinyl plank flooring?

For most stains, a mild cleaner and warm water should do the trick. For tougher stains, such as ink or dye, a specialized cleaner may be necessary.