Luxury vinyl plank (LVP)
Vinyl planks may use a locking edge or glued installation. Wear layers commonly include 6 mil, 12 mil and 20 mil. Wear layer thickness is not total plank thickness. Waterproof product claims do not eliminate installation, perimeter, moisture, sunlight or temperature limits. Subfloor flatness remains important.
Laminate
Laminate combines a wear layer, decorative image, dense fiberboard core and backing. AC abrasion ratings indicate wear performance. Water resistance and waterproof marketing varies by product. Expansion space and flat substrate requirements still apply.
Carpet
Fiber type, face weight, density, twist, pad, seams and pattern matching affect performance and quantity. Carpet roll width and layout can require materially more than net room square footage, especially around stairs and irregular spaces.
Carpet tile
Modular tiles can simplify replacement and work well in commercial spaces. Glue method, substrate preparation, pattern direction and waste still affect installation.
Solid and engineered hardwood
Species, grade, board width and thickness influence cost. Solid and engineered products may be nailed, glued or floated depending on the assembly. Moisture, acclimation, refinishing expectations and subfloor conditions require careful review.
Ceramic and porcelain tile
Tile size, layout, grout, underlayment, crack isolation, waterproofing and substrate flatness affect labor. Demolition can vary considerably with the existing assembly.
Sheet vinyl
Roll width, seams, pattern matching and full spread glue versus loose lay systems affect quantity and labor. The subfloor generally needs to be especially smooth.