Best Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

[Zack Rosenbaum]

I have just acquired my first rental property, a 4-plex, and will be updating each unit as the current tenant moves out. The biggest line item in each unit is flooring, currently each unit has carpet in every room except the kitchen and bathroom, which has linoleum sheets. The carpet is gross and will need replacing, and the linoleum is not very appealing so i will be replacing that as well. I have done a lot of research and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Planks) seem like the most economical choice, due to the durability, waterproofing, and stylish options. I have researched quite a few brands and from what I have found, "MSI's Cyrus/Woodland lineup"  from home depot seems to be the best budget option. 

Here are some of the Specifics: 5mm thickness,100% waterproof, Click Style design (Easy DIY Install), 12mil wear layer, and costs between $2.19-$2.60/sqft.  (I also saw the Prescott/Herritage lineup is 6.5mm thick with a 20mm wear layer, but don't know if the upgrade is worth paying $3.30/sqft)

I heard some great things about lifeproof, but the wear layer on their lineup is only 6-8 mils, and costs about $3.00/sqft

I also looked at the Home decorators collection, but they do not come with an attached underlay.

Has anyone ever done through research into LVP brands/lineups and found one that works best for them. Looking to stay at or under $3/sqft. Thanks

[John Warren]

@Zack Rosenbaum I have used quit a bit of vinyl plank at my units here in Berwyn. My tenants are what I would consider B or C class, so they are decent folks that don't put undue stress on the property beyond normal wear and tear. I have used mostly the $1.79 per square foot stuff from HD that has the "grip strip". The wear layer is not as thick, but for a rental I think you can end up over doing it. You will probably replace these floors in 6-10 years as they will be dated and you will want the extra rent that new, fresh floors can provide. 

You might also consider doing tile in the kitchens if you want a more durable option. It is tough to beat the durability of ceramic or porcelain tile over the long haul. I also refinish hard woods where possible as that is cheaper/looks nicer than the vinyl plank. 

I also have used vinyl plank in my C-/D class rentals, and the cheap stuff has held up ok. Nothing holds up perfectly in those areas, but I think it has proved my business model with the less expensive grade plank flooring.