by Imagine a floor that laughs in the face of scratches, spills, and foot traffic — yet still manages to look beautiful. That’s what you get with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT), a versatile flooring material that can transform any room in your house into a stunning space. This flooring is like the chameleon of the flooring world, with the ability to adapt to any style thanks to an abundance of design options and added benefits.
LVP and LVT are made from multiple layers including a factory-applied urethane top-coat that protects against abrasions, scuffs, and chemicals; a durable PVC print film that provides your floor’s design and color, and a resilient vinyl backing. These layers are all connected with a strong adhesive for stability. The result is a durable, waterproof floor that looks almost indistinguishable from natural materials like hardwood. Plus, it’s softer and more comfortable underfoot than tile or stone floors.
One of the most popular styles of LVP and LVT is wood-look vinyl, which is virtually indistinguishable from real hardwood. This classic option is available in a wide range of styles and colors, from the timeless appeal of oak to the rustic allure of distressed barnwood. Many of the wood-look patterns include intricate details, such as knots, grain patterns, and textured finishes, adding character to your living spaces.
Luxury vinyl is also an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and entryways, where scuffs and scrapes are a regular occurrence. Its water resistance and durability make it the perfect fit for kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture is a common issue. In these rooms, installing a vapor barrier and cleaning up spills promptly can mitigate moisture damage. Additionally, placing area rugs in these rooms can help maintain the quality of your floors.
Aside from being easy to clean, a key advantage of luxury vinyl is that it is more affordable than the natural materials it replicates. This means that you can have the look of marble or granite in your bathroom or kitchen for a fraction of the cost.
Another advantage of LVP and LVT is that it is extremely easy to install, making it a quick DIY project. Most of the time, this is achieved through a click-together system that snaps into place without the need for gluing or nailing down. It’s important to properly prepare the subfloor, however, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation.
When installed correctly, your new luxury vinyl floor can add comfort, warmth, and value to any home. It can also transform a cramped, cluttered space into an efficient and beautiful living area. To keep your new floors looking and feeling their best, we recommend routine dust mopping or sweeping with a soft bristle broom, occasional wet mopping with an approved cleaner, and using felt pads on furniture legs to prevent scratching. In addition, you can also choose to add underlayment for extra sound and moisture protection.
Ready to get started on your new floor? Contact a flooring company in Tampa today to request a free consultation. Our luxury vinyl installation expert are happy to answer any questions that you have and help you create a floor that suits your style and meets the needs of your busy household.