Waterproof vinyl plank flooring has revolutionized the flooring industry, offering homeowners a durable, attractive, and moisture-resistant alternative to traditional options. With numerous brands claiming to be the best, choosing the right waterproof vinyl plank flooring can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide explores top-rated waterproof vinyl plank options, their pricing structure, installation costs, and the advantages and disadvantages to consider. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom, kitchen, or entire home, understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision that balances quality, aesthetics, and budget.
Waterproof vinyl plank flooring (WVP) is engineered specifically to resist water damage, making it ideal for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Unlike standard luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, true waterproof vinyl planks feature a 100% waterproof core, typically made from materials like stone polymer composite (SPC) or wood plastic composite (WPC).
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
SPC flooring contains limestone mixed with PVC and stabilizers, creating an extremely dense, durable core that’s thinner yet more rigid. WPC features a core of wood flour and thermoplastics that provides a softer, warmer feel underfoot while maintaining excellent waterproof properties.
Most waterproof vinyl planks use a multi-layer construction: a wear layer on top (measured in mils, with higher numbers indicating greater durability), a design layer featuring the wood or stone look, the waterproof core, and often an attached underlayment for sound absorption and comfort.
Top Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring Brands
COREtec
COREtec pioneered the waterproof flooring category and remains a market leader. Their WPC core products offer excellent durability with a comfortable feel underfoot and impressive authentic wood visuals. They provide a comprehensive lifetime residential warranty and 10-year commercial warranty. COREtec’s innovation continues with their Pro Plus line featuring enhanced dent resistance.
Shaw Floorté
Shaw Floorté offers high-performance waterproof flooring with exceptional style options. Their SPC core products provide superior dent resistance and stability, while their diverse design layer technologies create remarkably realistic wood and stone appearances. Shaw’s proprietary Repel technology adds additional moisture protection, and their products are backed by comprehensive warranties.
Mohawk SolidTech
Mohawk SolidTech features an SPC core and proprietary UniFit locking system for easier installation. Their products boast impressive scratch resistance and a wide array of designer styles. The brand’s reputation for quality control and their All Pet Plus warranty make them popular among homeowners with active families and pets.
NuCore
NuCore, sold exclusively at Floor & Decor, offers budget-friendly waterproof flooring without compromising on quality. Their cork backing provides natural sound insulation and warmth. With a competitive lifetime residential warranty and impressive water resistance testing, NuCore represents excellent value in the waterproof vinyl category.
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
Pricing of Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
Waterproof vinyl plank flooring prices vary widely based on quality, thickness, warranty coverage, and brand reputation. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $2.50 to $7 per square foot for the materials alone. Budget options may start around $1.50 per square foot, while premium brands can exceed $10 per square foot.
| Quality Tier | Price Range (per sq ft) | Typical Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $1.50-$3.00 | 8-12 mil wear layer, basic designs, 10-15 year residential warranty |
| Mid-range | $3.00-$5.00 | 12-20 mil wear layer, better designs, 20-30 year warranty |
| Premium | $5.00-$10.00+ | 20+ mil wear layer, sophisticated textures, lifetime warranty |
WPC vinyl planks typically cost 10-20% more than comparable SPC products due to their enhanced comfort features. Additional factors affecting price include plank thickness (ranging from 4mm to 8mm+), attached underlayment (adding $0.25-$0.75 per square foot), and enhanced surface textures that create more realistic appearances.
Installation Costs of Vinyl Plank Flooring
Professional installation for waterproof vinyl plank flooring typically ranges from $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot, depending on your location, subfloor condition, and project complexity. Total costs including both materials and installation usually fall between $4.50 and $12.00 per square foot.
Several factors can influence installation costs. Subfloor preparation may require additional expenses if leveling, repair, or moisture mitigation is needed. Removing existing flooring can add $1-$4 per square foot. Complex layouts, custom patterns, or installing in multiple small rooms may increase labor costs by 15-30%.
DIY installation is possible with most click-lock vinyl plank systems, potentially saving $2-$5 per square foot in labor costs. However, proper installation directly impacts warranty coverage and long-term performance. Most manufacturers recommend professional installation, especially for larger projects.
Additional Installation Expenses
- Trim/molding: $1-$3 per linear foot
- Furniture moving: $100-$300 per room
- Underlayment (if not attached): $0.30-$0.80 per square foot
- Moisture barrier (for concrete subfloors): $0.15-$0.50 per square foot
- Transition strips: $2-$5 per linear foot
Pros of Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
The most significant advantage of waterproof vinyl plank flooring is its exceptional moisture resistance, allowing installation in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms where traditional hardwood isn’t recommended. Unlike laminate or engineered wood, waterproof vinyl won’t swell, warp, or discolor when exposed to spills or high humidity.
Durability is another major benefit. Quality waterproof vinyl planks resist scratches, dents, and stains, making them ideal for homes with children and pets. Many premium options feature wear layers exceeding 20 mils, protecting against daily wear for decades.
Maintenance simplicity appeals to busy households. Waterproof vinyl requires only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping with mild cleaners. Unlike natural wood, it never needs refinishing or special treatments to maintain its appearance.
Need Flooring Help? Call 877-761-0420 for Local Quotes
Installation flexibility sets waterproof vinyl apart from many alternatives. It can be installed over most existing hard surfaces, reducing demolition costs. Most systems use floating click-lock installation, requiring no adhesives and creating a waterproof seal between planks.
Style versatility has improved dramatically with advanced printing technologies creating remarkably realistic wood and stone looks. Embossed textures enhance authenticity, while wide color and pattern selections accommodate virtually any design preference.
Cons of Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
Despite being labeled “waterproof,” vinyl plank flooring doesn’t prevent water from seeping through seams to the subfloor during flooding events. Standing water can eventually penetrate even well-installed floors, potentially causing subfloor damage and mold growth if not promptly addressed.
Environmental concerns persist with vinyl flooring. Most products contain PVC, which isn’t biodegradable and may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While manufacturers have made improvements, environmentally conscious consumers may prefer natural alternatives like ceramic tile or sustainably harvested wood.
Potential home value impact is another consideration. While luxury vinyl has gained acceptance, some real estate professionals report that premium homebuyers still prefer natural materials like hardwood or stone. In upscale neighborhoods, vinyl might not offer the same return on investment as traditional materials.
Susceptibility to extreme temperatures can be problematic in certain settings. Direct, intense sunlight may cause fading or expansion issues. Similarly, vinyl flooring becomes less flexible in very cold temperatures, potentially leading to brittleness and increased vulnerability to damage.
Difficult repairs present another downside. Because most waterproof vinyl plank systems are interlocked, replacing damaged planks in the middle of a room can be challenging. Unlike real wood, vinyl cannot be sanded or refinished to remove surface damage.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Vinyl Plank Flooring
When selecting waterproof vinyl plank flooring, prioritize wear layer thicknessâopt for at least 12 mil for residential use and 20+ mil for high-traffic areas or homes with active pets. This transparent protective coating directly determines scratch and wear resistance.
Core construction significantly impacts performance. SPC cores provide superior dent resistance and stability, making them ideal for direct sunlight areas or under heavy furniture. WPC cores offer better comfort underfoot and improved sound absorption, beneficial for multi-story homes.
Installation systems matter for long-term performance. Angle-tap or drop-lock systems generally create tighter connections than pressure-lock designs. Enhanced edge treatments like Mohawk’s UniClic or COREtec’s angle-tap system provide superior seam protection against moisture intrusion.
Consider plank dimensions carefully. Wider, longer planks (7+ inches wide, 48+ inches long) create a more upscale, contemporary appearance but may show subfloor imperfections more readily. Thickness affects both durability and comfortâ5mm is the minimum recommendation, while 8mm or thicker provides premium performance.
Warranty coverage reveals manufacturer confidence. Look beyond marketing claims to examine warranty details. The best products offer lifetime residential warranties covering wear, fading, staining, and water damage. Also verify if the warranty transfers to subsequent homeowners, adding potential resale value.