Ted cook The Best Van Life Flooring Options: A Guide

The Best Van Life Flooring Options: A Guide

As a van lifer, the flooring of your vehicle is an essential part of a camper van conversion. The right choice can provide a sturdy surface for your living space, while also being aesthetically pleasing. For van lifers, this blog post will examine the advantages and disadvantages of different flooring options for camper vans - from sheet vinyl to laminate.

We'll start with sheet vinyl flooring, which is a popular option among van builders due to its affordability and ease of installation. Next up is laminate flooring, which provides durability but may not be suitable for all types of subfloors underneath it.

If you're looking for something more eco-friendly, cork flooring might be the way to go. It's lightweight and sustainable but may require additional sealing to prevent moisture damage. Rubber flooring is another durable option that offers slip-resistance and sound insulation properties.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its realistic wood-like appearance without the high maintenance requirements of hardwood flooring. Speaking of hardwood floors, we'll touch on those as well along with their benefits and drawbacks.

Lastly, we'll dive into vinyl planks that come in groove planks or sheet vinyl format depending on what you need them for - they are highly customizable so make sure you choose wisely! Overall there are many materials available when it comes time to install new floors in your camper vans or other vehicles!

Table of Contents:

Install A Plywood Subfloor First

measuring plywood for a van installation

Installing a plywood subfloor is the only way for van conversions to have stable flooring. Plywood provides a solid foundation for your entire floor, so it can support heavy weights like furniture and appliances without buckling or warping over time. Plus, you won’t have to worry about moisture seeping into the seams of your floorboards when you install a plywood subfloor underneath.

Plywood also gives you an even surface on which to lay down any type of flooring material you choose. Sheet vinyl or luxury vinyl plank (LVP),  laminate, or hardwood flooring options are easy to install on a plywood subfloor. A van's metal floor won't accept most flooring types. You'll notice a lot of van builders recommend you take the subfloor idea seriously.

You can easily groove planks together with tongue-and-groove joints for a smooth top layer that looks aesthetically pleasing in any living space.

Plywood makes sure everything stays level and secure when installed correctly. This subfloor also adds extra insulation against road noise. If noise reduction is a plus in your book then don't finish your van flooring without it!

Installing a plywood subfloor can be an economical and effective way to achieve a van floor that will last for years to come. Having discussed the advantages of a plywood subfloor, let us now consider a few van flooring options.

 
Key Thought: Installing a plywood subfloor is the way to go for van life set-ups. They provide stability and road noise insulation. It's strong, cost-effective, and can support any type of van flooring installation from sheet vinyl to hardwood.

Types of Flooring to Consider

When it comes to converting a van's metal floor to a proper foor, there are a variety of flooring options to choose from. What makes a good camper van flooring though? We believe a waterproof, durable, scratch-resistant floor is the best to focus on for most van floors.

Vinyl planks are the most popular option for camper van conversions. Vinyl plank or luxury vinyl plank can come in an array of colors and designs, making them easy to match a van design. Luxury vinyl plank is tough enough to handle heavy foot traffic and common water spills. Sheet vinyl is a super cheap option that offers a simple install andwaterproof protection against any accidental moisture damage. Laminate wood floors offer the look and feel of real hardwood without emptying your wallet. They’re easy to install over existing plywood subfloors and don’t require any special maintenance beyond regular cleaning.

A not-so-common pick for a van's floor is Cork floors. Cork is becoming increasingly popular due to their eco-friendly properties.  Cork is made from natural materials so it won't off-gas harmful chemicals into your living space like some synthetic products can. Another unqiue flooring solution is to use rubber flooring materials. Rubber flooring for a camper van floor can be a low-cost and comfy floor if looks aren't a top priority to you.

Finally, we think one of the best van flooring options out there is luxury vinyl plank (LVP). LVP has become a very popular option among van lifers because not only does this type offer durability but also beauty thanks to its realistic wood grain patterns and stone look patterns. These visuals are starting to mimic real hardwoods and stone floors perfectly at a fraction of the cost.

When considering the types of flooring to choose from, it is important to consider your budget and lifestyle. Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring provides a resilient, stylish option for those who wish to upgrade their flooring and have the budget to do so.

 
Key Thought: A van's floor needs to be sturdy, waterproof, and stylish flooring option. Engineered hardwood Luxury vinyl plank, or laminate wood floors fit the bill.

Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring

luxury vinyl plank cutting station

Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a popular option for camper van flooring due to its affordability, durability, and ease of installation. It consists of a top layer made from PVC vinyl that has been embossed with realistic wood grain textures and colors. This top layer is then bonded to an HDF (high-density fiberboard) core which provides stability and strength. The bottom layer is usually made from cork or foam which helps provide insulation as well as sound-dampening properties.

The installation process for luxury vinyl planks requires minimal tools and experience making it an ideal choice for DIYers looking to save money on their camper van conversion project. To install the planks you will need either glue down or click together versions depending on your subfloor underneath the entire floor area needs to be clean, flat, dry surface in order for them to adhere properly. Once laid out correctly the planks are then tapped into place using a rubber mallet or hammer until they fit snugly against each other creating a secure connection that won’t come apart easily over time even when exposed to extreme temperatures inside your vehicle.

Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring is the best van life flooring to offer an upscale appearance without having to spend too much money. For those who want even more durability and longevity, engineered hardwood flooring may be worth considering.

 
Key Thought: Luxury vinyl plank flooring is an ideal choice for DIYers looking to save money on their camper van conversion. LVP is affordabile, durability, waterproof, and aesthetically pleasing.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring is an excellent option for van life or van camper setups. It’s a popular choice among van lifers due to its durability, affordability, and the popular range of styles available. Engineered hardwood flooring consists of several layers of wood that are bonded together in a crisscross pattern to create a stable core. The top layer is made from real hardwood, giving it the exact same look and feel as solid hardwood without the cost or moisture worries solid hardwood offers. Engineered hardwood can be installed over almost any existing smooth surface like an old sheet vinyl floor or a plywood subfloor.

When installing engineered hardwood floors in your campervan conversion, you will need to make sure there is a flat surface underneath with no bumps or unevenness. Once you have prepared the area properly, you can begin laying down your planks one by one using either glue-down or floating methods depending on what type of planks you purchased and what kind of substrate they are being laid on top off. We wrote a disadvantages blog of engineered hardwood if you want to learn more about engineered as a camper van floor.

Engineered hardwood can be a great choice for those desiring to attain the traditional aesthetic of wood without compromising on sturdiness. For an even more budget-friendly alternative, laminate flooring may be worth considering.

 
Key Thought: Engineered hardwood flooring is a great option for van life, offering durability and affordability as well as style. For a timeless look and feel engineered hardwood is a great choice for your campervan conversion.

man installing a floor

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a popular option for van life setups due to its affordability and ease of installation. Manufacturers now create options that are waterproof like vinyl plank floors. The decorative top layers of laminate help make it look like real wood, while the top protective coating prevents damage from scratches.

Once installed correctly with an appropriate underlayment (which adds extra cushion), laminate floors offer excellent soundproofing properties which can help reduce noise levels within your van or camper build. it's perfect if you're planning on using this vehicle for long road trips with company. Additionally, they are much easier to clean than carpeted surfaces; simply sweep up dirt particles every few weeks or use a vacuum cleaner. If you have the waterproof laminate then mop regularly with warm water and common soap solutions.

Overall, laminate flooring offers an affordable way to give your campervan conversion project an elegant touch without breaking the bank. Additionally, they are durable enough to last through years of wear and tear without showing signs of age quickly either.

A lightweight laminate can work for many setups. We have seen engineered hardwood last longer than laminate, however, some customers swear by it. If you get your hands on both floors you'll know which on to choose.

 
Key Thought: Laminate flooring is an ideal van floor choice because its affordable and easy to install. Getting the new waterproof versions of laminate should provide a long-term camper van flooring solution.

FAQs in Relation to The Best Van Life Flooring

What is the best flooring for van life?

The top flooring for van life depends on your budget, desired look and feel, and lifestyle. For those looking to save money without sacrificing quality, vinyl plank flooring is an excellent choice. It's durable, waterproof, and can last for years to come. Engineered hardwood provides enhanced features to real wood but can cost  less than half the price of solid hardwood floors. Both types of flooring are easy to install yourself if you're comfortable with DIY projects or can be installed by professionals in no time at all. Whichever type you choose will provide years of beauty and comfort while living in your van.

What kind of flooring to use in a van?

When choosing flooring for a van, it is important to consider both cost, quality, and features. Vinyl plank flooring is often the most affordable option that provides scratch-resistant durability, stunning visuals, and is completely waterproof. Engineered flooring can also be an economical choice if you are looking for a more classic hardwood look and feel. 

What is the best material for a van camper floor?

The best material for camper van flooring is vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl plank flooring is a durable, waterproof choice that can be easily installed and provides an economical solution with its range of colors and styles. Vinyl planks are cost-effective and available in a variety of colors and styles that can match any decor. They also come with a wear layer that protects the surface from scratches or scuffs, making them ideal for campers who need an attractive yet hard-wearing option. Additionally, they require minimal maintenance compared to other materials such as carpet or wood floors. A van's floor should be beautiful and strong to hold up for decades.

How thick should a floor be for a van?

The thickness of the floor in a van depends on several factors, including its weight capacity and intended use. For heavier units carrying larger loads, a plywood thickness of 1/2 inch is recommended. It's also important to consider any insulation requirements and make sure that the subfloor has been properly sealed against moisture damage before installation. Before proceeding, it's prudent to seek advice from an expert.

Anything I Should Avoid?

Yes!I can think of 4 things that should be avoided:

 

1. Try not to use anything that requires an adhesive, as it will give of gasses and smell for a long time. 
 
2. Be mindful of the weight of the floor. Additional weight is extra work for your van. And extra work means less fuel efficiency.
 
3. You are building a room so that you can enjoy being outdoor. Plan on your floor getting dirty. You don't want it to look terrible with a little dirt on it.
 
4. Choose a floor that is easy to clean. When you step inside with mud on your feet it should not be something that makes you feel bad.

Which Van Life Floor is for You?

When it comes to finding a great van life floor, you have several options. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great choice for its durability and water resistance. Engineered hardwood floors offer a classic and elegant look. Laminate has quick installation times with similar visuals. No matter which type of van life flooring you choose, make sure to properly install a plywood subfloor first for maximum performance in your campervan or RV.

Discover the best van life flooring for your budget at Really Cheap Floors! We offer quality, low-cost flooring solutions to help you get the most out of your journey.