FAQ: Is Vinyl Flooring Cold?

Is Vinyl Flooring Cold in Winter?

While you might think vinyl flooring could be chilly during the cold winter months, but there are actually lots of factors that you can optimize to make it a cozy option for your home. We offer a variety of plank thicknesses—choose a thicker one if you need to keep your feet away from a cold subfloor.

When installed properly, vinyl plank flooring offers plenty of insulation to prevent any chills from reaching your feet. If the cold winter months are a particular concern for you, you might want to consider installing high-quality underlayment to maintain a comfortable flooring temperature range throughout the year. Even if your vinyl flooring has an attached pad, additional underlayment offers extra thermal and sound insulation. Underlayment works as both an insulator and a cushion, helping to create comfort underfoot throughout your home.

Before installing your vinyl floors, acclimate the planks to your home's normal temperatures and climate. Vinyl plank's stable core layer makes it less susceptible to contracting and shifting in lower temperatures. Rigid vinyl plank (or RVP), in particular, can withstand temperature variations due to its stone-based polymer composite core.

You might want to consider installing radiant heat beneath your vinyl flooring to bring extra warmth in the winter. If so, LL Flooring's QuietWarmth is a great option for your home.