While LVT is extremely durable, it isn't totally indestructible. Luxury vinyl flooring can dent and even scratch or scuff, especially from heavy appliances, furniture, or other weighty objects. Just because it's resistant to something doesn't mean it's impervious to it.
While luxury vinyl flooring is incredibly durable, it's not completely impervious to damage. It can scratch or scuff, especially with heavy objects such as appliances. On the positive side, luxury vinyl flooring is more scratch-resistant than hardwood, and, with LVP, you can replace pieces if they get scratched.
When it comes to cons of vinyl flooring, a disadvantage is that it can become discolored due to constant exposure to direct sunlight. So, it's not a great option for outdoor use. Certain rubber material, such as a rubber backing from a floor mat, can also cause vinyl to discolor.
LVT. They are made of the same polyvinyl chloride material, have similar performance qualities, score equally on durability and life span, are low maintenance and are easy and affordable to install. That said, LVP is the best choice if you are after a hardwood look for your floors.
LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) are two different types of luxury vinyl flooring. LVT is vinyl flooring designed in a tile shape, whereas LVP is vinyl flooring designed in planks to resemble traditional hardwood floor planks.
Vinyl and laminate flooring are similar in cost. They're both less expensive than other flooring materials like hardwood or porcelain tile. However, vinyl can get more expensive as you explore the luxury flooring options. Most laminate flooring can be purchased for about $1-5 per square foot.
Vinyl flooring is highly durable. If installed and maintained correctly, it can last upwards of 10-20 years. That said, vinyl is a great choice for the rooms in your house that get the most foot traffic. Additionally, most vinyl flooring has a wear layer on its surface that resists scratches and stains.
Vinyl floors can last anywhere from 5 to 25 years, depending on their quality and how they're installed and maintained.
Luxury vinyl plank flooring — or LVP — is a fan favorite for its convincing wood-like looks, high-quality construction and comfort underfoot. LVP flooring is crafted with four layers including a waterproof, PVC vinyl core and a scratch- and stain-resistant top layer perfect for pets and kids.
Insulation. We all know how cold stone or ceramic floors can be. Opting for a LVT is a great way of having a floor that gives the desired effect of tile but is much warmer under the feet. Adding an underlay will give that extra touch of warmth.
Vinyl has a longer lifespan and better overall durability than laminate. Don't forget to factor in your budget, however. Vinyl flooring may be more expensive than laminate flooring, especially if you choose luxury vinyl flooring.
Porcelain and ceramic are some of the longest lasting flooring materials available, and they require little maintenance. Tile flooring is also moisture resistant, making it the perfect choice for areas where spills are common like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is stylish and affordable compared to other types of flooring on the market. However, while it is a durable option, it is susceptible to fading as time goes on.
Every week, or more often if necessary, it's enough to wipe the floor with a damp mop or a cloth moistened with warm water and a neutral detergent. This helps to remove dirt and keep the floor in top condition. Keep in mind that you don't need a large amount of water to clean your floor.
Vacuum. Vacuuming your luxury vinyl plank flooring at least once a week will truly make a difference to the maintenance of your flooring. You can either vacuum the flooring yourself or, if you want to take the easy way out while still having clean luxury vinyl plank flooring, you can buy a roomba automatic vacuum!
LVP. LVP is shorthand for Luxury Vinyl Plank. LVP covers all vinyl designed in planks, giving the look of wood floors with all the features and benefits of vinyl. You may occasionally hear people use the term “LVT,” which stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile.
LVP and LVT core materials themselves are waterproof. However, installing a glued-down LVT, as opposed to a click-lock method, is not. Ultimately, if you desire a 100 percent waterproof vinyl, it needs to be SPC or WPC or a Hybrid model.
The Lowdown on LVP Thickness
The most common thickness of LVP used in common households is 12 mil, but if your household is fairly active, or has a number of pets, a higher thickness is recommended – such as 20 mil. Most thicker planks, such as 28 mil, are used for commercial rather than household installations.
1. Hardwood Continues to Dominate. Hardwood has remained at the top of the podium for decades now and continues to dominate the home flooring industry.
Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Installation Cost
For professional installation of luxury vinyl plank flooring, you should expect to pay anywhere between $1 and $5 per square foot.