What is the difference between 2mm and 4mm vinyl plank flooring, you ask? Other than the obvious 2mm difference, you may be surprised that there are a few advantages and disadvantages to both thicknesses of floorings.
2mm Vinyl Flooring
One important difference between the two floors is that 2mm vinyl floors are exclusively glue down floors. You will not find a 2mm vinyl flooring with a locking system. However, 2mm flooring is a cost-effective option compared to other thicknesses. This flooring can still be installed on you own as a DIY project, but you will have to purchase glues, and the floor will not be able to be walked on immediately after installation. Granted, with glue down floors, you don’t need to worry about any underlayment as the floor glues down on top of your subfloor. If you’re thinking about the 2mm floor, be conscious of the traffic area in which it is going. It may not be able to stand up to heavy foot traffic.
Feather Lodge Knock Out Del Mar 2mm vinyl flooring
4mm Vinyl Flooring
On the flip side, most 4mm vinyl floors have a locking system that locks the planks together. This makes installation incredibly easy. No glue, nails, or staples are used, making it a perfect DIY project. However, thicker flooring will cost more than a thinner vinyl. You will also have to purchase a vapor barrier underlayment, like Visqueen Vapor Barrier, if you are installing above a concrete subfloor to help protect against moisture. However, thicker 4mm floors will stand up to heavier foot traffic. If you have a busy household, opt for a thicker vinyl flooring.
Which Is Better?
That’s a trick question. It really depends on your needs! If you are installing vinyl floor in a closet, you can most definitely go for a thinner vinyl flooring. If you are installing in an entryway or a finished basement, you may want to consider getting a thicker vinyl. But there’s one more thing to keep in mind, the wear layer. The wear layer and the thickness work together to give you a sturdy and durable floor. In short, the thickness you need is determined on the subfloor you have and how much foot traffic you will have. The durability, wear layer, you need is determined on if you will be rough on your floors or not.
Have you installed a 2mm or 4mm vinyl in your home? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!
[divider]
Learn More:
- What is the wear layer for vinyl flooring?
- What mm thickness do I choose when I buy vinyl flooring?
- Can Vinyl be Used in Commercial Applications?
2 comments
I am updating the bathroom in a condo that I rent. The area to be covered is 5′ x 5’and currently has linoleum that is coming up and curling a little by the doorway molding, I think because they tried to cut it around the trim instead of putting the floor down and installing trim work after. So my question is do I need to take up the old floor or can I install vinyl plank on top of it.
Hi Karen, thanks for reaching out. Vinyl plank flooring must be installed on a smooth and leveled subfloor. It sounds like your linoleum is curling and coming up, so we would recommend removing the linoleum to ensure that your subfloor is level. You can buy a floor leveling product at your local home improvement store to help with that. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800-520-0961.