Vinyl Flooring FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about luxury vinyl plank
Is vinyl flooring waterproof?
Yes — all CALI luxury vinyl plank flooring is 100% waterproof. Both WPC (wood polymer composite) and SPC (stone polymer composite) cores won't swell, warp, or buckle when exposed to water. This makes CALI vinyl ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and any area where moisture is a concern.
What's the difference between WPC and SPC vinyl flooring?
WPC (wood polymer composite) vinyl has a cushioned core that feels softer and warmer underfoot — ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and family areas. SPC (stone polymer composite) vinyl has a rigid mineral core that resists dents, temperature changes, and heavy loads — ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and commercial spaces. Both are 100% waterproof with click-lock installation. CALI offers WPC collections like Longboards Icons and Legends, and SPC collections like Longboards, Windansea, and Select.
Is vinyl flooring good for dogs and pets?
Absolutely. Luxury vinyl plank is one of the best flooring options for homes with pets. The wear layer resists scratches from dog and cat nails, and the waterproof core handles accidents without damage. CALI vinyl is easy to clean with just a damp mop — no special treatments required. For extra scratch resistance, look at the Longboards or Legends collections.
Can you install vinyl flooring in a bathroom?
Yes — vinyl is an excellent choice for bathrooms. CALI's 100% waterproof construction means the planks won't swell or warp from shower steam, splashes, or spills. The click-lock installation creates tight seams that resist water penetration. SPC collections like Longboards and Windansea are especially popular for bathroom installations.
Does luxury vinyl plank scratch easily?
No. CALI luxury vinyl plank features a protective wear layer (20 mil or 22 mil depending on the collection) that resists scratches from pet nails, furniture, and daily wear. Premium collections like Longboards and Legends have thicker wear layers for maximum scratch resistance. While no floor is completely scratch-proof, LVP is significantly more scratch-resistant than hardwood.
What is luxury vinyl plank (LVP)?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a multi-layer flooring product designed to look and feel like real hardwood while offering superior water resistance and durability. Each plank has a printed design layer with realistic wood-grain visuals, a protective wear layer on top, and a rigid WPC or SPC core beneath. LVP installs with a click-lock system — no glue or nails needed — making it one of the most popular DIY flooring options in America.
How long does vinyl flooring last?
With proper care, high-quality luxury vinyl plank flooring lasts 50+ years. CALI backs their vinyl collections with 50-year residential warranties, reflecting the material’s exceptional durability. Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping is all the maintenance required.
Can vinyl flooring be installed over existing flooring?
In most cases, yes. CALI vinyl plank can be installed as a floating floor over most existing hard surfaces including tile, concrete, plywood, and existing vinyl. The subfloor should be clean, flat (within 3/16" per 10 feet), and dry. Vinyl should not be installed over carpet. Always check the specific collection's installation guide for detailed requirements.
What is the best vinyl flooring for kitchens?
SPC vinyl is the top choice for kitchens because its rigid mineral core resists dents from dropped cookware and heavy appliances. CALI’s Longboards collection (SPC) is a best-seller for kitchens — the extra-long, extra-wide planks create dramatic visuals while the waterproof core handles spills and splashes. The Windansea High Tide collection is another excellent kitchen option with extended 72-inch planks.
Is CALI vinyl flooring good quality?
Yes. CALI is one of the most trusted flooring brands in the United States, known for premium materials, innovative construction, and industry-leading warranties. Their vinyl collections feature realistic embossed-in-register textures, attached underlayment, and 100% waterproof cores. CALI vinyl consistently earns top ratings from homeowners and industry reviewers.
