01 What is a Wear Layer? The wear layer is a clear layer applied to the surface of the plank when crafted. It provides the overall sheen of the floor's surface and protects the photo layer of wood or stone that gives the product it's unique look. Because of this, over time the product will retain its clarity, and due to the thickness and quality of the clear coat wear layer, the photo imagery of the plank will avoid getting worn off long term.
02 Appearance of the wear layer The wear layer is often textured or embossed to give it a more realistic look. Some vinyl flooring may only have a few grooves per plank, while others may have lots of texture across the top, all depending on the look and style of the LVT or LVP.
03 The importance of the wear layer Once the wear-layer wears through, the paper pattern will damage, and the floor will need to be replaced. The thicker the wear-layer, the longer your floors will last and look great. Wear-layers are measured in mils (not to be confused with millimeter). Here is a chart of a range of wear-layers, listed in both mm and mil:
Wear-layer(mm)
Wear-layer(mil)
Typical Commercial Warranty
0.1mm
4 mil
None-3 year "light" use
0.3mm
12 mil
5 year or "light" use
0.5mm
20 mil
10 year
0.7mm
28 mil
15 year
1.0mm
40 mil
20+ year
04 Packaging Method 30~300m/roll,roll by roll,PE foam+Clear PVC bag +Fumigation-free wooden boxes