Good Vinyl Plank Thickness? (4 Mil You MUST Know)

Ever walked into a room and thought, “Wow, this floor looks like it could handle anything?”

That’s the power of a durable floor.

And guess what?

The thickness of your vinyl plank is a HUGE part of that durability equation.

I’m talking about the unsung hero of your home’s foundation.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Vinyl plank? Thickness? Is this really that important?”

Trust me, it is.

We’re going to dive deep into the world of vinyl plank thickness, specifically focusing on that often-overlooked 4 mil option.

Forget the common misconceptions.

We’re getting down to the nitty-gritty, so you can make the best choice for your space.

Section 1: Understanding Vinyl Plank Thickness

So, what is vinyl plank thickness, anyway?

Well, in simple terms, it’s the measurement of the plank from top to bottom.

Think of it like the height of a pancake – the thicker it is, the more substance it has.

In the flooring world, we usually see vinyl plank thickness ranging from 2mm to 8mm.

Now, those numbers might not mean much to you right now, but stick with me.

We measure thickness in millimeters (mm), and sometimes you’ll see it in mils (thousandths of an inch).

For reference, 1 mm is equal to about 40 mils.

The thickness of a vinyl plank directly impacts how well it can withstand daily wear and tear.

A thicker plank generally feels more solid underfoot and is less likely to show imperfections in the subfloor.

Section 2: The Significance of 4 Mil Thickness

Alright, let’s zoom in on that 4 mil thickness.

Now, you might be thinking, “Thin? Is that even good?”

Well, it depends on the application.

A 4 mil wear layer is typically found on sheet vinyl or very basic vinyl tiles, and isn’t a common wear layer thickness for vinyl plank.

However, let’s assume we’re talking about the overall thickness of the plank.

A thinner plank like this might be suitable for areas with minimal foot traffic, like a guest bedroom or a closet.

The biggest advantage of a 4 mil plank is often its price point.

It’s generally more budget-friendly than thicker options.

But, and this is a big but, it’s crucial to understand its limitations.

Compared to a 6 mil or 8 mil plank, a 4 mil option will be less resistant to scratches, dents, and moisture.

Think of it this way: would you rather wear a thin t-shirt or a thick jacket in a hailstorm?

The thicker option is going to offer more protection.

Section 3: Durability Factors Influenced by Thickness

Okay, let’s talk durability.

This is where thickness really shines (or doesn’t, if it’s too thin!).

The thicker the vinyl plank, the better it can handle the daily grind.

We’re talking about resistance to:

• Scratches: Think pet claws, furniture legs, and clumsy feet.
• Dents: Imagine dropping a heavy pot or having kids running around with toys.
• Moisture: Spills, leaks, and humidity can all wreak havoc on your floors.

But here’s a crucial point: the overall thickness isn’t the only factor.

The wear layer is arguably even more important.

The wear layer is the top, protective layer of the vinyl plank.

It’s measured in mils (thousandths of an inch), and it’s what stands between your floor and the world.

A thicker wear layer will provide better protection against scratches and wear.

For example, a vinyl plank with a 20 mil wear layer will be significantly more durable than one with a 6 mil wear layer, even if the overall thickness of the planks is the same.

Section 4: Performance in Various Settings

Now, let’s consider where you’re planning to install your vinyl plank.

Will it be in a quiet, low-traffic bedroom, or a bustling, high-traffic kitchen?

This makes a HUGE difference in the thickness you should choose.

Residential Settings:

• Low-Traffic Areas (Bedrooms, Guest Rooms): A 4 mil plank might be sufficient, especially if you’re on a tight budget and are gentle on your floors.
• High-Traffic Areas (Living Rooms, Kitchens, Hallways): I’d strongly recommend opting for a thicker plank (6 mil or higher) with a substantial wear layer (at least 12 mil).

Commercial Settings:

Forget 4 mil. Seriously.

Commercial spaces endure a beating that residential floors can only dream of.

You’ll want to look for planks with a thickness of 8mm or higher, and a wear layer of 20 mil or more.

Think about it: offices, retail stores, and restaurants see hundreds, if not thousands, of people walking across their floors every day.

They need something that can withstand heavy foot traffic, rolling carts, and the occasional dropped object.

Lifestyle Factors:

Do you have pets? Kids?

These little (or not-so-little) bundles of joy can be tough on floors.

Pets can scratch floors with their claws, and kids can be… well, kids.

If you have either, I’d advise bumping up the thickness and wear layer to ensure your floors can handle the extra wear and tear.

Section 5: Installation Considerations for 4 Mil Thickness

Okay, so you’re considering a 4 mil vinyl plank.

Let’s talk installation.

Because it’s thinner, a 4 mil plank is more sensitive to imperfections in the subfloor.

That means your subfloor needs to be smooth, level, and clean.

Any bumps, dips, or debris will telegraph through the thin plank, creating an uneven and potentially damaged floor.

Subfloor Requirements:

• Leveling: Use a self-leveling compound to fill in any dips or uneven areas.
• Cleaning: Thoroughly sweep and vacuum the subfloor to remove any dust, dirt, or debris.
• Repairing: Fix any cracks or holes in the subfloor before installing the vinyl plank.

Underlayment Options:

While not always required, an underlayment can provide extra cushioning, sound insulation, and moisture protection.

It can also help to smooth out minor imperfections in the subfloor.

When installing thinner planks, use an underlayment specifically designed for vinyl plank flooring.

Common Installation Mistakes:

• Ignoring Subfloor Preparation: This is the biggest mistake I see. Don’t skip this step!
• Using the Wrong Adhesive: If you’re using glue-down planks, make sure you use an adhesive that’s compatible with vinyl plank flooring.
• Not Allowing for Expansion and Contraction: Vinyl plank flooring expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Leave a small gap around the perimeter of the room to allow for this movement.

Section 6: Maintenance and Care for Longevity

Alright, you’ve installed your 4 mil vinyl plank.

Now, how do you keep it looking good for years to come?

Maintenance is key, especially with thinner planks.

Cleaning Methods:

• Regular Sweeping or Vacuuming: This will remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface of the floor.
• Damp Mopping: Use a mild detergent and a damp mop to clean the floor. Avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into the seams and damage the subfloor.
• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can damage the wear layer of the vinyl plank.

Recommended Products:

• pH-Neutral Cleaners: These are gentle on vinyl plank flooring and won’t damage the finish.
• Microfiber Mops: These mops are effective at removing dirt and debris without scratching the floor.

Addressing Issues Promptly:

• Scratches: Use a vinyl floor repair kit to fix minor scratches.
• Water Damage: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water from seeping into the seams. If water does get under the planks, dry the area thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Section 7: Cost vs. Value Analysis

Let’s talk money.

A 4 mil vinyl plank is generally cheaper than thicker options.

But is it really a good value in the long run?

That depends.

Cost Implications:

• Material Costs: 4 mil planks are typically less expensive per square foot than thicker planks.
• Installation Costs: Installation costs may be slightly higher if you need to spend extra time and effort preparing the subfloor.
• Replacement Costs: Because 4 mil planks are less durable, you may need to replace them sooner than thicker planks.

Long-Term Value Considerations:

• Durability: Thicker planks will generally last longer and require less maintenance.
• Appearance: Thicker planks tend to look and feel more luxurious.
• Resale Value: High-quality flooring can increase the value of your home.

Warranties:

Pay close attention to the warranty offered by the manufacturer.

A longer warranty typically indicates a higher-quality product.

Warranties for thinner planks may be shorter or more limited than those for thicker planks.

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict on 4 mil vinyl plank thickness?

It can be a viable option in certain situations, particularly in low-traffic areas where budget is a major concern.

However, it’s crucial to understand its limitations and weigh the cost savings against the potential for reduced durability and longevity.

When choosing flooring, consider your specific needs, lifestyle, and environment.

Don’t just focus on the initial price tag.

Think about the long-term value and the impact your flooring choice will have on your home.

Choosing the right thickness for your vinyl plank flooring is an investment in the quality and longevity of your home.

Make sure you choose wisely!

Learn more