I'm looking for flooring recommendations for my basement apartment, which my mother uses. She relies on a walker, and we need something durable because she's on the heavier side. The LVP we currently have is only about two years old, and it's already wearing out quickly. It wasn't installed by us, and I'm not sure about any warranties. I've noticed that the plank connections are breaking, likely due to the pressure from the wheels and her weight. The basement is somewhat humid, but flooding isn't an issue right now. A local flooring store suggested laminate, but I've seen mixed opinions online, especially about LVP. Should I give LVP another shot, or is laminate a better option here?
2 Answers
Honestly, don't overlook the possibility of laminate being a good option, especially if the store recommended it. High-quality laminate can be surprisingly durable and can handle the weight. Just be mindful of the thickness and the brand you choose, as not all laminates are created equal. Remember, if you're unhappy with the LVP now, it might be time to explore other options!
I've got Lifeproof LVP with a 22 mil wear layer in my office for three years, and it has held up perfectly under the weight of a 250lbs rolling chair. As long as your LVP isn’t the cheapest option and it's installed correctly, it should be fine with a walker or wheelchair. Proper installation, especially subfloor prep, is key. You might want to consider glue-down LVP if you’re concerned about durability, but a well-installed click-lock could work too. Also, consider adding some tennis balls on the walker to reduce wear on the floor!