“How Thick Is Too Thick? The Truth About Flooring Wear Layers”

Let’s clear something up before the internet explodes again:

Yes, we said most families don’t need 20 mil wear layer flooring.No, we’re not anti-durability.Yes, we still want to be invited to your cookouts.

Here’s the deal…

What Even Is a Wear Layer?

Imagine your luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is like a frosted Pop-Tart.

That clear topcoat that protects the beautiful image underneath? That’s your wear layer.It’s not the frosting (that’s your finish), and it’s definitely not the crust (that’s your core).It’s more like the thin sheet of glass protecting a picture frame. Strong enough to take daily life, but still just one piece of a bigger puzzle.

So… Bigger Is Better, Right?

Not necessarily.

We get it—“20 mil” sounds like the Chuck Norris of flooring. But just like with protein shakes, gym memberships, and subscription boxes, more isn’t always better for your everyday life.

Most families living a normal level of foot traffic (read: not running a CrossFit gym in their living room) don’t need a 20 mil wear layer. And here’s why:

Let’s Talk Use Case:

• 6 mil: Budget-friendly, light use—think guest bedrooms or quiet offices.

• 12 mil: Sweet spot for most homes—built for daily life, kids, pets, messes, and “Mom, I spilled the applesauce again.”

• 20 mil: Designed for commercial spaces. Busy retail. Hair salons. Rolling chairs and shoes that click too loudly.

• 28+ mil: You're basically prepping for the apocalypse.
  

When 20 Mil Is Overkill (And Costs You More)

The biggest misconception? That 20 mil means twice the quality.

Truth bomb: the difference between 12 mil and 20 mil is often invisible to the naked eye—but very visible to your wallet.

You’re not getting a stronger core. You’re not getting more comfort.You're just getting more topcoat—most of which will never get worn down in a residential setting.

We’re not here to sell you what makes us the most money. We’re here to sell you what actually fits your home and your life. And unless your toddlers wear cleats indoors, you probably don’t need industrial-grade flooring.

The Real Measure of Great Flooring

At J. Michael Flooring, we look at the whole picture:

• Core strength (SPC or WPC?)

• Waterproof capability

• Stability in Indiana humidity

• Installation type

• Comfort underfoot

• And yeah… the wear layer

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We want you to have flooring that looks good, lasts long, and doesn’t come with buyer’s remorse. Not a sales pitch that sounds fancy but doesn’t actually serve your space.

So, Why Did We Say “Don’t Buy Too Much Flooring?”

Because sometimes people are told to get 20 mil in every room of the house—just to be “safe.” That’s like buying a bulletproof vest to wear while mowing your lawn. You’re allowed to relax a little.

We want your budget to go further. Not get buried under marketing fluff.

Bottom Line: Let’s Match the Floor to the Family

Here’s our promise:We’ll never oversell you.We’ll never push you into something you don’t need.And we’ll always explain why—with a cup of coffee, a smile, and maybe a Pop-Tart metaphor or two.

Want to chat about wear layer options?Come visit us. Ask the hard questions.We’re ready.

J. Michael Flooring Flooring so honest, it might make your carpet blush.