How to Choose Vinyl Plank Flooring Thickness: Expert Guide: From Traffic Load to Subfloor—Everything You Need to Know About Selecting the Right Vinyl Plank Thickness

If you’ve been eyeing a luxury makeover in your home without breaking the bank, vinyl plank flooring probably popped up on your radar. But here’s the detail that many DIY enthusiasts and even some professionals overlook: the thickness of your vinyl plank flooring can make or break your whole renovation. So how do you actually choose the right thickness for your space? That’s where my years as an interior designer—and real experience on projects from family kitchens in Portland to high-rise condos in Miami—come in handy. Let’s break it down step by step.

Right off the bat, I recommend you take a look at how your floor plan is used day-to-day. A hallway with sneakers stomping through daily is a world apart from a guest bedroom rarely visited.

Consider Traffic and Durability

Vinyl plank flooring generally ranges from 2mm to 8mm thick (sometimes even thicker!). For low-traffic areas—think bedrooms or quiet offices—planks at the thinner end of the spectrum (around 2–4mm) can be a cost-effective, suitable choice. But for busy family living rooms, entryways, or kitchens, you should look at 5mm or thicker, especially if you want that solid, authentic hardwood feel.

According to the latest Houzz flooring trends report for 2025, over 65% of American homeowners upgrading their main living spaces chose at least 5mm vinyl planks for a better “feel underfoot” and increased longevity. My own experience with a Seattle couple’s dog-filled living room confirms: thinner planks can flex, click, or even show subfloor imperfections over time.

Subfloor Imperfections—Don’t Ignore Them

The condition of your subfloor matters more than you might think. Thicker planks (e.g., 6mm or above) hide small imperfections, dents, or dips far better than thin ones. For concrete or older wooden subfloors that aren't perfectly level, err on the side of more thickness.

If you’re working on upgrading a basement, check out advice on adjusting your floor plan for uneven spaces before making your decision. It’s a decision that can save headaches (and extra repair costs) down the line.

Installation Type Matters

Click-lock (also called floating) vinyl planks often need to be thicker for a more stable lock—especially in larger rooms. If you’re gluing down your planks, thinner options are possible since the adhesive adds rigidity, but floating planks below 4mm may not feel as secure or realistic. The sweet spot for most DIY installations sits at 5–6.5mm.

Acoustics, Comfort, and Underlayment

Thicker vinyl planks tend to feel softer underfoot and provide a bit more sound insulation—a real plus if you’re installing above-ground floors or in a multi-unit building. Some premium thicker planks also come with an attached underlayment, streamlining installation and further muffling noise. If not, consider pairing high-quality underlayment with thinner planks to boost comfort.

Living Room Remodel: A Real-World Example

Here’s a case from my portfolio: A family in Austin, Texas, wanted new floors throughout their open-plan kitchen and living space. With three kids and two large dogs, durability and comfort were non-negotiable. We compared 4mm vs. 6.5mm options side-by-side. While the 4mm felt okay in the store, it felt springy and accentuated subfloor dips at home. The 6.5mm choice delivered a sturdier, quieter surface and handled their busy lifestyle with zero issues, even two years later. Sometimes you just need to stand on both samples and jump around—that’s real-life testing!

Budget & Value Decisions

Budget is always a factor. While thicker means pricier, the added comfort and longevity can deliver better value over time. If you’re covering more than one room, you might mix thicknesses: 4–5mm in bedrooms, 6mm+ for high-traffic areas. Balancing value and performance is key to smart home upgrades.

In summary, choosing the appropriate vinyl plank flooring thickness depends on foot traffic, subfloor condition, installation method, and the comfort you want underfoot. Doing a bit of planning with a room layout tool or testing samples in your own space can clarify decisions before you commit. And remember, don’t just go by numbers alone! Feel, sound, and even a bit of jumping around on samples will tell you far more than a product label ever could.

FAQ

1. How thick should vinyl plank flooring be for a kitchen?
2. Ideally, look for planks at least 5mm thick for kitchens and high-traffic areas—this gives better durability and hides minor imperfections.
3. Does a thicker vinyl plank mean better quality?
4. Generally, yes—thicker planks offer improved stability, sound absorption, and a more solid “feel” underfoot. But wear layer thickness is just as important for long-term performance.
5. Is underlayment necessary with thicker vinyl plank flooring?
6. Thicker planks sometimes come with attached underlayment. If not, adding one can reduce sound and increase comfort, especially above ground level.
7. How does subfloor type impact vinyl thickness choice?
8. Older or uneven subfloors benefit from thicker planks (6mm+), as these mask imperfections better than thinner ones.
9. Can I mix vinyl plank thicknesses in one home?
10. Absolutely—use thicker (6mm+) for living rooms or hallways, 4–5mm in low-traffic bedrooms for savings.
11. What’s the downside of thin vinyl plank flooring?
12. Thin planks (2–4mm) may flex or telegraph subfloor flaws, especially in busy rooms. They’re best for low-traffic, even areas.
13. Are thicker vinyl planks harder to cut or install?
14. They can require a bit more effort to score and snap, but most DIYers find the installation manageable with the right tools.
15. What’s the ideal thickness for installing over tile?
16. Choose planks at least 5–6mm thick—these float better over tile and prevent pattern “ghosting” through the new floor.
17. How long does thick vinyl flooring last?
18. If properly cared for, thick planks (with a strong wear layer) can last 15–20 years in a typical home setting (source: Statista 2025).
19. Do pets affect flooring thickness decisions?
20. Yes—families with large or active pets benefit from thicker options for better dent and moisture resistance.
21. Will vinyl plank thickness affect resale value?
22. Potential buyers notice stability and “feel” underfoot. Investing in quality, thicker planks can be a subtle but effective resale booster.