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.
Not As Durable – LVP offers less protection against scratches or wear-and-tear than LVT due to its single-layer construction. If you have pets or children running around, this might not be ideal for your home!
Durability. Laminate and LVT/LVP flooring are both extremely durable, but they have their weaknesses. Laminate is prone to scratches and chipped corners over time, so vinyl is probably a better choice for your home if you have pets. LVT/LVP is scratch-resistant, but it's more vulnerable to denting and tearing.
The key difference between the two is LVT is tile shaped, while LVP is designed in planks. One resembles tiles and the other resembles planks, but there are pros and cons to each. Knowing what they are can help you decide which is the better option.
Vinyl is a soft material: One of its advantages is also its greatest weakness: its lightness. Heavy furniture can dent and mark vinyl floors, while sharp objects can pierce the upper layers. Discolouration: LVT flooring can suffer from sun damage if laid in conservatories or near south-facing doors/windows.
While LVT is a little higher end than laminate, it looks more modern and is better able to stand the test of time…and water! Furthermore, when you replace damaged tile, laminate, or linoleum with LVT, you add to the resale value of your home.
So let's answer the above question. Luxury vinyl flooring comes with a strong top layer that resists staining and scratching, not to mention other abrasions as well. It is functional, durable, and attractive to look at. It is also easy on your budget and practically maintenance-free.
LVP flooring is waterproof, less expensive, and faster and easier to install than wood or tile. Even the high-end residential market discovered LVP floors last year. It works in wet areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms as well as living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and anywhere in the house except for stairs.
Most LVP flooring is durable and does a good job defending against scratches, dents, and stains. To get the most out of your LVP you will want to consider what is underneath the flooring. An underlayment provides the proper support to make sure your LVP makes it the long haul.
The answer may surprise you - not only does LVP often help homes sell faster, but it can also lead to a higher sale price. Here's a closer look at why LVP is such a popular choice among home sellers and buyers.
Less density with laminate flooring means less durability. In addition, if the wear layer on the laminate isn't treated for UV light protection, laminate flooring will fade in the sunlight. LVP is clearly superior when it comes to durability.
Engineered Vinyl flooring, or Engineered Vinyl Plank (EVP), is a subset of LVPs. EVPs are simply even more durable than many LVP options, as they're built with the strongest high-density fiberboard core, and have a rigid stone-based core.
The best vinyl plank flooring for most people is the Shaw Primavera Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring. It's 100% waterproof and is scratch-, skid-, and mark-resistant, making it ideal for long-term use in high-traffic areas. Plus, it's available at a nice mid-range price and boasts easy click lock installation for the DIYer.
LVT vs LVP: Installation
Luxury vinyl tile and plank are both very easy to install. Both can be “floated” over existing hard flooring, making the process easier than having to remove the flooring and start from scratch (though in some cases with different levels of flooring, adjustments may be needed).
For those who prefer the easy care of vinyl, LVP is certainly a great option. It is cheaper by the square foot than engineered hardwood and is certainly more affordable than engineered hardwood. It's also easier to install than hardwood flooring. And, if a piece chips, you can replace it with little effort or expense.
Luxury vinyl tile and planks deliver everything homeowners want from their flooring. First, there's the durability and easy maintenance to consider—and it's waterproof. The ease of installation is important, too, along with the beauty and affordability.
If you're installing a loose lay vinyl plank floor, you will not need an underlayment. This material can be installed directly on top of the subfloor without any additional padding. Your subfloor will need to be level just as any other vinyl installation.
Generally speaking, LVP can be installed directly over subfloors such as concrete or ceramic tile assuming they're clean and level. Additional underlayment may be required if installing over existing hardwood or vinyl sheet floors to protect against moisture damage and sound transmission.
In short, yes. It's a misnomer that Luxury Vinyl Planks do not need a moisture barrier.
Vinyl plank flooring provides an amazing water resistance ability. You can shower comfortably without having to worry about damaging the floor with water. One thing to note, however, is that most homeowners prefer luxury vinyl tiles when it comes to the water resistance capability.
LVPs come in a variety of colors, ranging from dark to light shades that can complement any home décor. The most popular colors are gray, beige, and brown, with variations that include pattern and texture.
If a new luxury vinyl floor floats above the subfloor because of its click and lock design, it can be walked on as soon as the installers leave. Tiles or planks that are glued down, however, need time to set. This process takes at least 48 hours.
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring can last up to 20 years but, as with anything, depends upon the quality, proper installation, and degree of care.
Luxury vinyl planks (or tiles) are, in themselves, completely water-proof and cannot be damaged by exposure to moisture.