Complete Guide to LVP Flooring in Farmington Hills
Everything Farmington Hills homeowners need to know about luxury vinyl plank
Quick Guide: LVP Selection
Key Takeaways
- 100% waterproof — Perfect for Michigan basements, kitchens, bathrooms
- SPC core recommended — More stable than WPC in temperature swings
- 12+ mil wear layer — Essential for residential durability
- Whole-home solution — Can be installed in every room
Why Farmington Hills Homeowners Love LVP
LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) has become the fastest-growing flooring category. It combines the look of hardwood with waterproof practicality that makes sense for Michigan homes.
LVP Advantages
- 100% waterproof (perfect for basements)
- Realistic wood and stone looks
- Comfortable underfoot (warmer than tile)
- Scratch and dent resistant
- Easy maintenance
- Works with radiant heating
LVP Considerations
- Cannot be refinished like hardwood
- Lower resale value than real wood
- Quality varies significantly by brand
- Direct sunlight can cause fading
SPC vs WPC: Which Core Is Right?
LVP comes in two core types. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right product for your home.
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)
SPC has a rigid, dense core made of limestone powder and PVC. It is more durable and stable.
- More rigid and dent-resistant
- Temperature stable (great for Michigan)
- Thinner profile (works better over existing floors)
- Best for: High traffic areas, basements, whole-home installs
WPC (Wood Plastic Composite)
WPC has a softer, foamier core. It provides more cushion underfoot.
- Softer, warmer feel
- Better sound absorption
- More comfortable for standing
- Best for: Bedrooms, areas where comfort is priority
Our Recommendation
For Farmington Hills homes, we typically recommend SPC core. Michigan temperature swings can cause WPC to expand and contract. SPC handles this better and offers superior dent resistance.
Wear Layer Guide: What You Need
The wear layer is the transparent top coating that helps protect against scratches and wear. Thickness matters for longevity.
Pro Tip
Never go below 12 mil for residential use. Budget LVP with thin wear layers scratches easily and looks worn within a few years. The cost difference is small compared to replacement.
| Wear Layer | Rating | Best For | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 mil | Light Residential | Low traffic, rentals | Good |
| 12 mil | Standard Residential | Most homes | Better |
| 20 mil | Heavy Residential | Kids, pets, high traffic | Best |
| 28+ mil | Commercial Grade | Businesses, heavy use | Maximum |
Higher wear layers provide better scratch and wear resistance. Results vary by traffic and care.
Professional Installation Process
While LVP is marketed as DIY-friendly, professional installation ensures the best results. Subfloor preparation is critical.
Our Installation Process
- Subfloor inspection — Check for moisture, levelness, damage
- Subfloor prep — Level, clean, and repair as needed
- Acclimation — Allow LVP to adjust to room temperature
- Underlayment — Install appropriate moisture barrier
- Precision cutting — Clean cuts around obstacles
- Proper expansion gaps — Allow for seasonal movement
- Transition strips — Professional finishing details
- Final inspection — Quality check before completion
Professional Installation Benefits
- Proper subfloor preparation
- Accurate cutting and fitting
- Correct expansion gaps
- Warranty protection
- Same-day completion
DIY Installation Risks
- Uneven floors cause gaps and buckling
- Improper expansion gaps cause warping
- Mistakes waste expensive materials
- Manufacturer warranty may be voided
LVP vs Other Flooring Options
How does LVP compare to other flooring types for Farmington Hills homes?
| Feature | LVP | Hardwood | Carpet | Tile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Comfort | Good | Fair | Excellent | Poor |
| Durability | Excellent | Good | Fair | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Easy | Moderate | High | Easy |
| Resale Value | Good | Excellent | Fair | Good |
| Michigan Basement | Ideal | Not Recommended | With Care | Good |
Get a Free Estimate
Ready to start your flooring project? Get a free in-home estimate with accurate pricing for your Farmington Hills home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LVP good for Farmington Hills basements?
Yes, LVP is ideal for basements. Its waterproof construction handles moisture issues common in Michigan basements. We recommend SPC core for maximum stability and durability.
How durable is LVP?
Quality LVP with 12+ mil wear layer offers excellent durability for residential use. Thicker wear layers (20+ mil) provide even better scratch and wear resistance. Actual performance depends on traffic, maintenance, and care.
Can LVP be installed over existing flooring?
Yes, LVP can often be installed over existing hard surfaces like tile, concrete, or vinyl. The subfloor must be level and in good condition. We assess this during our free estimate.
Does LVP feel cold like tile?
No, LVP is warmer underfoot than tile or stone. The vinyl composition provides natural insulation, and it works well with radiant heating systems.
Will LVP fade in sunlight?
Quality LVP has UV-resistant coatings, but prolonged direct sunlight can cause fading over time. We recommend window treatments in sun-facing rooms to maximize longevity.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. Every flooring project is unique—results depend on subfloor condition, humidity, home age, and other factors. Always consult a professional before starting your project. Cost estimates are approximate; contact us for accurate pricing.