What Exactly Causes the Wide Price Range for PVC (Vinyl) Flooring?

PVC flooring—also widely known as vinyl flooring—is popular for its durability, design flexibility, and affordability. However, if you’ve shopped around, you’ve probably noticed the huge price range, with some options costing as little as 20 RMB per square meter, while others can go well above 100 RMB per square meter.

So, what explains this difference? Let’s break it down.

1. Differences in Raw Materials

The quality of raw materials used in PVC flooring has a direct impact on both performance and cost.

• Premium PVC resin, stabilizers, and pigments result in flooring that looks better, lasts longer, and resists yellowing.

• Lower-cost products may substitute cheaper fillers like low-grade limestone powder, which can weaken the flooring and shorten its lifespan.

If all manufacturers used the same high-quality raw materials, the price gap would be much smaller.

2. The Wear Layer Thickness

The wear layer is the transparent protective surface on top of vinyl flooring. It determines:

• Scratch resistance

• Stain resistance

• Overall durability

A thicker, denser, and higher-quality wear layer significantly increases the product’s lifespan, but also raises the price. Entry-level vinyl flooring often has a wear layer of 0.1–0.2mm, while premium flooring may feature 0.5–0.7mm or more.

3. Total Thickness of the Flooring

Beyond the wear layer, the overall thickness of PVC flooring affects comfort and cost.

• Thicker flooring (4–8mm or more) feels softer underfoot, reduces noise, and provides better insulation.

• Thinner versions (2–3mm) are more affordable but less comfortable.

Since thicker flooring requires more raw materials, the cost rises accordingly.

4. Production Process and Technology

Not all vinyl flooring is manufactured the same way. The three main types are:

• Multi-layer composite – Made by layering PVC sheets together.

• Homogeneous – The same material throughout, with uniform color and pattern.

• Stone-plastic composite (SPC) – Mixed with stone powder, giving extra rigidity.

Each process involves different levels of technology, precision, and investment. For example, SPC flooring requires advanced extrusion and cutting equipment, raising production costs compared to basic calendering and laminating.

5. Presence of a UV Coating

Some vinyl flooring comes with a UV coating on top of the wear layer. This coating:

• Enhances gloss and aesthetics

• Improves scratch and stain resistance

• Provides antibacterial properties

Since UV coating requires extra materials, equipment, and processes, it naturally makes the flooring more expensive.

6. Brand Reputation and Market Positioning

Brand plays a huge role in pricing.

• Imported brands often cost more because of higher production standards, advanced R&D, and brand recognition.

• Domestic brands can be more affordable, but quality varies widely depending on the manufacturer.

Flooring is not a disposable purchase—it’s expected to last years. This makes buyers more likely to trust established brands, which can command a higher price.

7. Transportation and Logistics Costs

While PVC flooring is lighter than stone or wood, it still weighs a lot when purchased in bulk—sometimes several tons.

Its shape and packaging also require special handling during shipping. This means transportation adds a non-negligible cost, especially for imported products.

8. Supply, Demand, and National Policies

Finally, external factors such as:

• Market demand

• Industry competition

• Government environmental regulations

…also affect the final price. For example, stricter environmental policies may drive up raw material and production costs, which are then passed on to consumers.

Conclusion

The wide price range of PVC (vinyl) flooring is not random—it reflects differences in raw materials, wear layer thickness, total thickness, production technology, UV coatings, brand reputation, logistics, and even market forces.

In short:

• Lower-priced vinyl flooring usually means thinner wear layers, cheaper raw materials, and simpler production.

• Higher-priced options offer better durability, aesthetics, hygiene, and brand assurance.

For homeowners, the key is to balance budget and performance needs. If you want flooring for a low-traffic area, budget models may suffice. But for kitchens, living rooms, or commercial spaces, investing in mid-to-high-end PVC flooring ensures better comfort, durability, and value over time.