Don't overlook the wear layer in luxury vinyl flooring!

Don't overlook the wear layer in luxury vinyl flooring!


Four materials are combined to produce luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring. While homeowners are attracted to the wood or tile image layer, the other three layers make this floor covering versatile and functional.

Carpetland carries a large selection of luxury vinyl flooring in our Alexandria, Springfield, and Falls Church, Virginia showrooms.

Wear layer


You don't want to overlook the wear layer because it protects the image layer from stains and scratches; thus, thicker is better.

Your new floors will be most durable if you choose LVP or tile with a 20-mil wear layer. And it's not hard to find a brand with a coating applied to this transparent surface layer to increase the floor's lifespan.

Core layer


While the wear layer determines the durability of a floor and the image layer guarantees its appeal, the core layer influences both factors.

For example, if you choose waterproof luxury vinyl tile flooring, unforeseen mishaps won't mar the floor's good looks or decrease its longevity. Luxury vinyl that repels water has a wood plastic composite (WPC) core or a stone plastic composite (SPC) core.

Backing layer


The backing layer protects the core layer from daily wear and supports the entire plank or tile. Finally, underlayment is placed beneath the floor, and it, too, influences the lifespan of the planks or tiles since it enhances the floor's overall performance.

In addition, underlayment cushions footsteps and muffle sounds and provides thermal insulation, including stopping drafts.

Your area's premier flooring store


Carpetland offers LVP and LVT installation services, free estimates, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, and more. In addition, our company trucks can travel through Metro DC, Fairfax County, and Prince William County.

Find the luxury vinyl flooring you need for your project at one of our three locations, or contact us to make arrangements for a visit from our mobile showroom.