What is vinyl plank flooring or LVT and what are the benefits in choosing this product?
Vinyl flooring has been around for a long time, but recently it’s been experiencing a renewed popularity. Vinyl flooring falls under the category of resilient flooring. Resilient flooring is flooring made with materials that are flexible, examples being linoleum, vinyl composition tiles, and cork. Because of it’s resiliency, vinyl flooring is more comfortable to stand on for longer periods of time, as well as offering more warmth underfoot than tile or stone. Luxury vinyl tile, or LVT, is vinyl flooring made to mimic the look of natural wood, stone, or porcelain tile, and because of this it’s available in a wide variety of colors and styles. It comes in tiles or planks, to reinforce the look of whatever material it is replicating.
The manufacturing processes have become so sophisticated that they’re able to perfectly replicate the natural grains in wood and the texture of tiles all while offering the same advantages of vinyl flooring. Tile look LVT can even be installed with real grouting to make it appear even more realistic. In terms of cost, LVT is less expensive than traditional hard flooring options, while still giving the same look that they offer. Homeowners are able to get the rich look of wood, stone or tile at a lower price. In certain instances as well, LVT has an advantage over sheet vinyl in that the waste factor can be lower. With sheet vinyl, there will oftentimes be a large segment not used, depending on the dimensions of the room being installed. With LVT, the amount of material needed is able to be more precise since it’s in smaller segments, thus reducing the amount of material waste. One of LVT’s biggest advantages is it’s water resistant properties, which make it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, places where there is a lot of moisture and a higher probability of flooding.
LVT makes it possible for homeowners to have the look of wood in these areas without the consequences of water damage. Another advantage is it’s durability. LVT is favored by interior designers and commercial builders for both it’s style and it’s ability to withstand heavy traffic. Since most LVTs are commercially rated, that makes them especially good options for residential applications as well. LVT have specially developed wear layers to provide scuff and dust resistance, as well as a urethane coating for added durability. LVT and vinyl flooring in general is mostly maintenance free, a simple damp mopping is usually sufficient. Special cleaning products exist for LVT and those are good to use as well, however traditional cleaning products should be avoided because they may affect the finish. The manufacturer’s warranty should provide more information on the proper cleaning procedures. Vinyl flooring has come a long way in the last ten years. Many consumers are turned away from the thought of traditional vinyl flooring, it tends to bring to mind cheap peel and stick tiles or 70’s era kitchens. With the overwhelming support of LVT from the interior design community and the wide availability from many big name and higher end companies, homeowners and business owners alike are beginning to see the key advantages in using LVT for their projects.
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