Overview
Vinyl flooring has become the fastest-growing flooring category in Canada. Its combination of waterproof performance, realistic wood and stone visuals, and competitive pricing makes it the top choice for homeowners and renovators.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) replicates the look of hardwood with a rigid or flexible core, while luxury vinyl tile (LVT) mimics natural stone and ceramic tile. Both options come in click-lock and glue-down formats.
Modern vinyl flooring features wear layers ranging from 6 mil to 28 mil, with thicker wear layers offering superior scratch and stain resistance. Many products include attached underlayment for sound reduction and comfort underfoot.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- +100% waterproof - ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
- +Affordable compared to hardwood and tile
- +Easy DIY click-lock installation
- +Wide variety of realistic wood and stone looks
- +Comfortable and warm underfoot
- +Low maintenance - sweep and mop
Cons
- -Can dent under heavy furniture without protection
- -Lower-end products may look less realistic
- -Not as long-lasting as hardwood (15-25 year lifespan)
- -May off-gas VOCs in cheaper products
Best For
Cost in Canada
Material Cost
$3 - $8
per sqft
Installation Cost
$2 - $4
per sqft
Installation Tips
- 1Acclimate planks in the room for 48 hours before installation.
- 2Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level within 3mm over 10 feet.
- 3Use spacers along walls to allow for expansion gaps (typically 1/4 inch).
- 4Stagger plank joints by at least 6 inches for a natural appearance.
- 5Use a rubber mallet and tapping block to lock planks together without damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?+
Yes, luxury vinyl plank and luxury vinyl tile are 100% waterproof, making them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
How long does vinyl flooring last?+
Quality vinyl flooring lasts 15 to 25 years depending on wear layer thickness and maintenance.
Can you install vinyl flooring over existing flooring?+
In many cases yes. Vinyl can be installed over existing hard surfaces as long as the subfloor is smooth and level.
Is vinyl flooring good for pets?+
Yes, vinyl flooring is scratch-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean, making it excellent for homes with pets.
How This Page Is Prepared
- +Independent third-party research perspective rather than manufacturer or installer sales copy.
- +Flooring pages are organized around room use, moisture risk, budget range, installation scope, and common tradeoffs.
- +National and local planning pages are intended to narrow decisions before homeowners request project-specific quotes.