Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike thanks to its durability, aesthetic appeal, and affordability compared to natural hardwood or stone. But when you start shopping for luxury vinyl flooring, you’ll quickly notice a wide range of prices. So, how much should you expect to pay for quality luxury vinyl flooring?
Let’s break down the costs and what factors influence them so you can make an informed decision.
Types of Luxury Vinyl Flooring
Luxury vinyl flooring generally comes in two primary formats:
- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Designed to mimic the look of hardwood, these planks come in various widths and lengths.
- Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): These tiles replicate the appearance of stone or ceramic and often come with groutable options for a more authentic look.
Both types offer water resistance, easy maintenance, and impressive durability. However, their costs can differ based on design, quality, and installation requirements.
Price Ranges for Luxury Vinyl Flooring
The cost of luxury vinyl flooring is typically broken down by square foot, and prices can vary based on quality, brand, and style.
- Budget-Friendly: $2 to $3 per square foot
These are entry-level vinyl options with thinner wear layers and basic designs. They’re suitable for light residential use. - Mid-Range: $3 to $5 per square foot
Mid-range luxury vinyl flooring offers better wear layers, more realistic designs, and greater durability. This is a common choice for most homes. - High-End: $5 to $8 per square foot
High-end LVF features thicker planks or tiles, enhanced realism, superior wear layers, and added features like soundproofing or enhanced water resistance. - Premium: $8 and up per square foot
Premium luxury vinyl flooring often mimics rare wood species or high-end stone with incredible authenticity. These also come with advanced core construction for extra stability.
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the total cost of your luxury vinyl flooring project, don’t forget to factor in the following expenses:
- Underlayment: $0.50 to $1 per square foot
Some LVF options come with pre-attached underlayment, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need one for noise reduction and comfort. - Installation: $2 to $5 per square foot
Professional installation ensures a flawless finish and longer lifespan. - Preparation: $1 to $3 per square foot
Costs for removing old flooring, leveling the subfloor, or making repairs. - Moulding and Trim: $1 to $3 per linear foot
To complete the polished look, matching moulding and transition pieces are often needed.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
If you’re handy, installing click-lock LVF yourself can save on labor costs. However, glue-down options or large areas often require professional installation for the best results.
Final Thoughts
The cost of luxury vinyl flooring varies based on quality, style, and additional features, but understanding these price ranges and factors can help you budget accordingly. Whether you opt for budget-friendly planks or high-end tiles, investing in quality LVF can provide long-term value and beauty for your space.
