Vinyl flooring decisions hinge on thickness in several forms, from underlayment mils to wear layers. Understanding these measurements helps balance moisture protection, durability, and budget. This guide compares common 6 mil moisture barriers with planks featuring wear layers from 12 mil to 40 mil. It also explains how to choose thickness based on room, subfloor, and traffic, so you can select the right option for long-lasting performance.
The products highlighted here include vapor barriers and wear layers from brands like Roberts, MSI, Flooret, and E ELEME.
| Product | Type | Thickness / Wear Layer | Coverage / Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roberts 70-115 Moisture Barricade Underlayment | Underlayment Film | 6 mil | 120 sq ft roll | Vapor barrier for vinyl, laminate, SPC, engineered wood |
| Roberts 70-116 Moisture Barricade Film | Underlayment Film | 6 mil | 300 sq ft roll | Exceeds NWFA moisture barrier requirements; suited for concrete |
| MSI Hampstead Glue Down Vinyl Plank | Vinyl Plank (Glue-Down) | 12 mil wear layer • 2 mm total thickness | 36 sq ft per box | Durable, realistic wood look; glue-down installation |
| E ELEME 5mm Click Lock Vinyl Plank | Vinyl Plank (Click Lock) | 20 mil wear layer • 5 mm thick | 23.9 sq ft per carton | 100% waterproof; versatile installation over many surfaces |
| Flooret 40 Mil Wear Layer Sample | Vinyl Plank (DIY Click) | 40 mil wear layer | Sample planks; 9″ W x 72″ L | High durability; waterproof and scratch resistant |
Roberts 6 Mil Moisture Barricade Underlayment
The ROBERTS 70-115 Moisture Barricade Underlayment Film functions as a vapor barrier beneath vinyl, laminate, SPC, and engineered wood floors. With a 6 mil thickness, it aligns with northwest Florida Association (NWFA) moisture barrier standards for residential projects, providing reliable protection in spaces prone to dampness. A 120 square foot roll supports smaller rooms and home projects, while remaining easy to handle during installation. The film’s polyethylene construction ensures durability without adding excessive subfloor height.
This underlayment is designed to shield floors from moisture migration, helping prevent warped boards and adhesive failure in moisture-prone environments. The 6 mil thickness offers a balance between barrier performance and cost, making it a practical choice for basements, crawlspaces, or rooms with fluctuating humidity. When installing, ensure seamless seams and properly sealed edges to maximize moisture protection and long-term floor performance.
Roberts 6 Mil Moisture Barricade Film
The Roberts 70-116 Moisture Barricade 6 mil polyethylene film is designed as a vapor barrier under vinyl, laminate, SPC, and engineered wood flooring. The 6 mil thickness exceeds NWFA recommendations for use over concrete subfloors, making it a robust choice for challenging subgrades. The 300 square foot roll provides ample material for mid- to large-scale installations, reducing the need for frequent restocking. This film is particularly compatible with laminate products that include pre-attached underlayment or floating resilient products over concrete slabs.
Use this barrier to minimize moisture-driven issues and extend the life of the floor. Proper seam sealing and appropriate overlaps between sheets help maintain a continuous moisture barrier. Although thin, the 6 mil thickness delivers dependable protection when paired with proper installation practices and perimeter sealing.
MSI Hampstead 2MM Glue-Down Vinyl Plank
MSI Hampstead is a glue-down vinyl plank flooring option that measures 2 mm in total thickness and features a 12 mil wear layer. This combination yields a durable surface with the authentic look of wood while ensuring stability when anchored to a subfloor. The listing shows 36 square feet per box, which aligns with typical residential dimensions and helps with project planning. The 12 mil wear layer provides scratch resistance and overall durability for high-traffic areas.
The wear layer strength is complemented by a reliable glued installation, which can offer superior long-term stability in rooms subject to movement or heavier furniture. The 2 mm core helps keep the subfloor flat and minimizes the impact of minor subfloor imperfections. This option is well-suited for living spaces, hallways, and areas where a premium wood look is desired with strong moisture performance for dry-to-moist indoor environments.
E ELEME 5mm Click Lock Vinyl Plank
E ELEME Flooring offers 7 x 48 inch luxury vinyl planks with a Unilin locking system for quick, secure floating installation. The boards are 5 mm thick and come with a 20 mil wear layer, delivering durability for busy households. Each plank measures 7.2 inches in width and 48 inches in length, with a total coverage of about 23.9 square feet per carton. This combination provides robust wear protection while allowing for a relatively straightforward installation process.
100% waterproof and versatile, these planks can be installed over most existing surfaces, including tile, wood, concrete, and existing vinyl. The 5 mm core paired with a 20 mil wear layer supports resistance to dents, scratches, and moisture, making it a pragmatic choice for kitchens, baths, and living spaces where durability and moisture resistance are priorities.
Flooret 40 Mil Wear Layer Sample LVP
Flooret’s 12” cut sample highlights luxury vinyl plank flooring with a standout 40 mil wear layer. The planks shown measure 9 inches wide by 72 inches long and are 100% waterproof and scratch resistant, representing Flooret’s Pomeroy Signature line. The generous wear layer thickness translates to exceptional durability for high-traffic areas and active households, while the sample format helps shoppers visualize color and texture before committing to a full install.
The 40 mil wear layer is substantially thicker than standard consumer options, offering prolonged resistance to dents and wear. The DIY click installation in Flooret products remains straightforward, and waterproof performance adds confidence for kitchens, entryways, and other moisture-prone spaces. This option balances aesthetics with enduring protection, making it a strong contender for long-term value.
Buying Guide
Mil Thickness And Wear Layer
Mil thickness refers to the film or coating thickness on underlayment and, in flooring, to the wear layer that protects the printed surface. Underlayment mils (such as 6 mil) primarily address moisture barriers and subfloor protection. Wear layers (12 mil, 20 mil, 40 mil) determine how resistant the surface is to scratches, dents, and moisture. In lighter-traffic areas, a thinner wear layer may suffice, while busy households or moisture-prone rooms often benefit from thicker wear layers for longevity.
Subfloor And Moisture Considerations
Concrete subfloors and basements typically require reliable moisture barriers. 6 mil Roberts underlayment films provide a economical moisture shield, but pairing a moisture barrier with appropriate subfloor prep remains essential. In new constructions or spaces with high humidity, consider thicker wear layers or planks with enhanced waterproof performance to minimize maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Installation Method And Room Fit
Underlayment films suit floating or adhesive installations when moisture is a concern. Glue-down planks offer maximum stability, especially in high-traffic areas, but require proper adhesive and subfloor prep. Click-lock planks provide a balance of ease of installation and durability, while wet rooms may demand waterproof and wear-resistant surfaces. Choose installation method based on room usage, substrate condition, and desired flexibility for future remodels.
Maintenance, Warranty, And Longevity
Higher wear layers generally translate to longer service life and better resistance to scratches and wear, reducing maintenance needs. Look for warranties that match your room’s use case, especially in kitchens, entryways, and children’s play areas. Regular cleaning with manufacturer-approved products helps preserve wear layers and moisture barriers. Remember that installation quality, proper expansion gaps, and seams also influence long-term performance.
Value, Budget, And Aesthetics
Thicker wear layers and robust moisture barriers can increase upfront costs but often yield lower long-term maintenance and replacement costs. Aesthetics, color, and texture should align with room design while still offering practical durability. For high-traffic or moisture-prone spaces, prioritize planks with thicker wear layers and certified waterproof performance to maximize durability and value over time.