The Best Luxury Vinyl Flooring Brands: Top 5 Picks in 2025

The Best Luxury Vinyl Flooring Brands in 2025: A Buyer’s Guide

Vinyl plank flooring continues to be one of the most popular choices for homeowners in 2025, and for good reason. It’s durable, easy to clean, and offers a wide range of styles that work in nearly every area of the home.

Compared to hardwood or tile, luxury vinyl holds up better against moisture, scratches, and daily wear and tear. It’s also more affordable and easier to install, making it ideal for busy households, rental properties, and long-term upgrades.

The Best Luxury Vinyl Flooring Brands

At Carpet Exchange, we’ve seen a growing demand for luxury vinyl plank flooring, especially from customers looking for high-performance materials that don’t sacrifice appearance. With so many options on the market, choosing the right brand can feel overwhelming.

This guide highlights the Best Luxury Vinyl Flooring Brands in 2025, based on real-world performance, design versatility, and long-term value. If you’re ready to invest in plank flooring that works as hard as you do, you’re in the right place.

What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring and Why Is It So Popular?

What LVP and Why So Popular

Luxury vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring material designed to mimic the look of natural surfaces like hardwood or stone. It's made from multiple layers that include a strong core, a photographic design layer, and a protective wear layer on top. This layered structure gives it the durability and realistic appearance that makes it so popular today.

Unlike traditional vinyl floors, luxury vinyl comes in different formats, including planks and tiles. If you’re curious about the specific types available, check out our guide to the types of luxury vinyl flooring.

Most vinyl plank flooring options also include click-lock systems, allowing for floating installations that are faster and easier than glue-down flooring.

What really sets them apart is its ability to handle moisture and daily wear. They're waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean — perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other high-traffic spaces. For a deeper look at how this works, check out our guide on waterproof luxury vinyl flooring.

Homeowners also love how modern vinyl planks offer a more realistic wood or tile look compared to older styles. Regardless if you're after wide-plank oak or textured stone, today's luxury vinyl delivers on both appearance and performance without the hassle of real wood or ceramic.

It's this combination of style, strength, and low maintenance that keeps vinyl plank flooring at the top of the list for both first-time buyers and seasoned renovators.

How We Selected the Best Vinyl Flooring Brands in 2025

How to select the best LVF

Not all vinyl plank flooring brands are created equal. Some look great on the shelf but don’t hold up once they’re installed. Others might be waterproof, but lack comfort or style. That’s why we took a close look at what actually matters for homeowners in 2025.

To find the best luxury vinyl flooring brands, we focused on five key criteria:

1. Durability

LVF Durability

We looked at the wear layer thickness of each plank. Most high-quality options start at 20 mil, which can handle heavy foot traffic, pet claws, furniture movement, and the kind of wear and tear that comes from real life.

2. Waterproof Performance

LVF Waterproof Performance

If you're putting luxury vinyl in a kitchen, bathroom, or basement, waterproofing is non-negotiable. We evaluated how well these vinyl floors resist spills and moisture over time.

3. Style and Design Options

Some plank flooring options offer a better wood look than others. We prioritized brands with a wide range of finishes, textures, and plank sizes so you can match your flooring to your space.

4. Ease of Installation

Ease of installing LVP

If you’re hiring a pro or tackling a DIY project, installation should be straightforward. Click-lock systems, rigid core construction, and floating floor capabilities all played a role here.

5. Real-World Reviews

We pulled from verified customer reviews, flooring expert feedback, and brands that perform consistently well at Carpet Exchange locations. If it doesn’t hold up in real homes, it didn’t make the cut.

These standards helped us narrow down the top vinyl flooring brands that deliver not just on paper, but where it matters in your home.

Top Picks: The Best Luxury Vinyl Flooring Brands in 2025

With so many vinyl flooring brands out there, it helps to narrow your choices down to the ones that have a proven track record. These are the top performers in terms of durability, design, and everyday usability.

COREtec Luxury Vinyl Flooring

COREtec Brand

Rating: ★★★★★ (based on customer reviews)
Price: $1.99 – $7.50 per sq. ft.
Best For: Comfort, quiet, and overall performance

Why We Like It:

SCOREtec has nailed the balance of performance and comfort. These floors come with a built-in cork backing that makes every step feel softer and quieter. Add a thick wear layer and waterproof core, and you’ve got a top-tier LVP option.

  • Wear Layer: 20–30 mil
  • Core: WPC core with cork underlayment
  • Install: Click-lock floating floor
  • Style Range: Natural woods, modern neutrals

Best Fit:

Great for all rooms in the home including living rooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms, upstairs spaces, or homes where sound matters.

Pros

  • Built-in sound absorption
  • Comfortable underfoot
  • Excellent water resistance
  • Easy to install over most surfaces

Cons

  • Higher cost for premium products.

Shaw Floors – Floorté Pro

Shaw Floors Brand

Rating:
Price: $2.50 – $6.50 per sq. ft.
Best For: All-around performance and style

Why We Like It:

Shaw has been a go-to name in flooring for decades, and the Floorté Pro line proves why. It’s built to last with a rigid, waterproof core and their exclusive ArmourBead wear layer. This is the kind of flooring that takes a beating and still looks good doing it.

  • Wear Layer: Up to 30 mil
  • Core: Waterproof and dent-resistant
  • Install: Click-lock system — quick, clean, and DIY-friendly
  • Style Range: Wide planks in realistic wood looks

Best Fit:

Floorté Pro is ideal for high-traffic spots like kitchens, hallways, and busy family rooms.

Pros

  • Durable and waterproof
  • Scratch and dent resistant
  • Wide style selection
  • Backed by solid warranties

Cons

  • Premium options cost more
  • Availability can vary by location

Mohawk SolidTech Plus

Mohawk Solidtech Brand

Rating:
Price: $3.00 – $6.00 per sq. ft.
Best For: Pet owners and active households

Why We Like It:

SolidTech Plus is Mohawk's answer to homes that don’t sit still. These planks are built tough, with a rigid core and 20 mil wear layer that can handle just about anything — paws, spills, muddy boots, and the chaos that comes with everyday life.

  • Wear Layer: 20 mil
  • Core: Waterproof rigid core
  • Install: Click-lock with attached underlayment on select styles
  • Style Range: Classic and rustic wood looks

Best Fit:

For living rooms, hallways, and anywhere pets like to nap or zoom.

Pros

  • Pet-proof and waterproof
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Comfortable underfoot
  • Built-in underlayment on many styles

Cons

  • Some styles lack underlayment
  • Fewer upscale design options

Karndean Korlok Select

Karandean Korlock Brand

Rating:
Price: $4.50 – $7.00 per sq. ft.
Best For: High-end visuals and realistic texture

Why We Like It:

Karndean’s Korlok Select line is a designer’s dream. With detailed textures, high-definition wood grains, and premium finishes, it’s the closest thing to real hardwood you’ll find in LVP.

  • Wear Layer: 20 mil
  • Core: Waterproof rigid core
  • Install: Click-lock floating system
  • Style Range: Upscale wood visuals with deep texture

Best Fit:

Ideal for main living areas, formal rooms, and open floor plans that need visual impact.

Pros

  • Extremely realistic visuals
  • Durable and waterproof
  • Great scratch resistance
  • Low maintenance

Cons

  • More expensive than average LVP
  • Not always widely stocked

What to Look for When Buying Luxury Vinyl Flooring

What to look for when buying

Choosing the right vinyl plank flooring isn’t just about picking a color that matches your cabinets. You want a floor that can handle your lifestyle, hold up over time, and still look good doing it.

Here’s what to focus on when comparing luxury vinyl flooring options:

Wear Layer Thickness (mil)

The wear layer is the clear protective coating on top of the plank. It’s what protects your floor from scratches, scuffs, and daily wear. The thicker the layer (measured in mil), the more durable the flooring.

  • 12 mil is fine for light residential use
  • 20 mil or higher is better for heavy traffic and long-term use

If you're dealing with pets, kids, or just want flooring that can take a beating, aim for a thicker wear layer.

Core Construction: Rigid Core vs. WPC

Most modern luxury vinyl planks use a rigid core (either SPC or WPC) to add stability and water resistance. SPC cores are more dense and durable, while WPC cores offer more comfort underfoot.

Both are 100% waterproof, but SPC is a better choice for high-traffic or commercial spaces. WPC might be more comfortable in bedrooms or living areas.

Style and Plank Sizes

Today’s vinyl plank flooring comes in a wide variety of plank sizes, textures, and finishes that mimic real hardwood or stone. Wide planks and distressed textures are trending for 2025, offering a more modern, natural look.

Look for plank flooring options that work with your room size and lighting. Darker colors can make a space feel cozier, while lighter planks can open it up.

Installation Method

If you’re handling the project yourself, go with click lock vinyl. It’s easier to install and doesn’t require adhesives or nails. Just snap the planks together and go.

Floating installations are common with rigid core vinyl, and many products now include attached underlayment for added comfort and sound insulation.

Where You’re Installing It

Not all vinyl floors are created for every space. Some are better suited for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and basements. Others are built to shine in open-concept living spaces or high-traffic entryways.

Think about how you use the space, and choose flooring that fits your needs.

What’s the Best Vinyl Plank Flooring for You?

With so many vinyl flooring brands offering different features, the best choice really comes down to how you live and what you need from your vinyl floor.

Use the chart below to help narrow it down.

Brand Best For Wear Layer Waterproof Price Range (per sq. ft.) Best Room(s) Standout Feature
COREtec Plus Comfort and quiet 20–30 mil ✅ Yes $1.99 – $7.50 All rooms Built-in cork for sound insulation
Karastan Elegant style, durability, and waterproof performance 20 mil ✅ Yes $3.99 – $4.99 All rooms High-end visual appeal, waterproof, versatility
Shaw Floorté Pro Overall durability and style 20–30 mil ✅ Yes $2.50 – $6.50 High-traffic areas, kitchens Commercial-grade durability
Mohawk SolidTech Plus Pets and active households 20 mil ✅ Yes $3.00 – $6.00 Living rooms, pet zones Scratch-resistant, pet-proof performance
Karndean Korlok Select Premium visuals and texture 20 mil ✅ Yes $4.50 – $7.00 Main living areas, upscale homes Designer-level realism and grain detail

No matter which brand you choose, each one delivers durable, stylish flooring solutions that hold up to real life.

The best part? You can explore all of these plank flooring options right here, whether you're into warm oak tones or modern concrete finishes. We carry a wide range of luxury vinyl flooring built for comfort, resilience, and long-term use.

Ready to Upgrade? Here’s What to Do Next

The best way to choose the right floor is to see it in person. At Carpet Exchange, you’ll find leading brands like Shaw, Mohawk, COREtec, Karndean, and Armstrong, all under one roof.

Even if you’re tackling a single room or a full remodel, we’ll help you compare styles, understand wear layers and plank types, and pick the best match for your home and budget.

Stop by your nearest Carpet Exchange showroom, or browse our full catalog online to get inspired and order samples.

Because finding flooring that fits your life should be simple, and built to last!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best color LVP in 2025?

Light oak, soft greys, and muted beige are the top LVP colors. They’re neutral, modern, and easy to match with most interiors.

What is the best brand of luxury vinyl flooring?

COREtec for comfort, durability and style, Karastan for Designer level realism and high-end style, Shaw for durability and style,and Mohawk for pet-proof performance.

What is the best LVT flooring on the market?

COREtec for for comfort and high-end looks; Shaw for waterproof performance and core strength.

Which is better, Shaw or COREtec?

COREtec is better for durability, foot traffic, sound reduction and comfort underfoot.

What flooring is best for dogs?

COREtec is better for dogs. It’s scratch-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean.