The medical industry requires flooring solutions that are resilient and low-maintenance, and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring provides just that. LVT flooring is a cost-effective and durable option for healthcare facilities, offering a range of advantages that can make it an invaluable addition to any medical practice. Here are 5 key benefits of LVT flooring in the medical industry.
LVT flooring is incredibly durable and can stand up to heavy foot traffic, as well as being stain and scratch resistant. It is also easy to clean and maintain, with an antimicrobial coating that helps to keep germs and bacteria at bay. It is slip-resistant, helping to keep everyone safe in a hospital environment.
Know more about the reasons why LVT flooring is one of a great choice for hospital flooring options due to the several factors it can contribute to its application.
What is LVT flooring?
LVT flooring, or luxury vinyl tile, is a type of resilient flooring that combines the durability and water resistance of vinyl with the look and feel of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and ceramic. LVT is made from several layers of sheet vinyl, with a photographic image layer on top that gives it a realistic look and texture.
LVT is available in a variety of colors and styles, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. It is also durable and easy to maintain, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
5 Advantages of LVT flooring in the medical industry
Durability
LVT flooring’s ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and equipment
Luxury vinyl tile flooring is an extremely durable flooring option that can withstand heavy foot traffic and equipment. It is constructed with a resistant wear layer, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. LVT flooring also has a dense core layer that provides extra strength and stability, making it better able to handle the weight of heavy foot traffic and equipment.
Resistance to scratches and stains
LVT flooring is highly resistant to scratches and stains. Its protective wear layer is made of clear, tough polyurethane that is resistant to everyday wear and tear. The wear layer also provides superior stain resistance, protecting against the spread of bacteria and other hazardous materials in a healthcare flooring.
Hygiene
A non-porous surface that does not harbor bacteria or viruses
LVT flooring has a non-porous surface made of a synthetic material that does not absorb liquids and prevents liquids from seeping through to the subfloor. This makes it difficult for bacteria and viruses to thrive, as they are unable to find a surface to which they can attach and reproduce in a healthcare flooring.
The surface is also treated with antimicrobial agents that further help to minimize the growth of harmful organisms. Additionally, a vinyl composition tile is easy to clean and maintain, which helps to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria.
Easy to clean and disinfect
LVT flooring is extremely easy to clean and disinfect. The flooring is impermeable, meaning liquids and dirt can’t seep into the surface, making it easier to wipe up any spills or messes in a healthcare flooring. The material is also very resistant to bacteria, mold, and other harmful microbes, making it simple to disinfect with regular cleaning products.
Reduction in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)
LVT flooring has been proven to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in several ways. Its closed-cell construction and resistance to moisture prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, reducing the risk of infection in hospital flooring. Its seamless joints and superior adhesion make it difficult for dirt and other contaminants to penetrate the surface, reducing the risk of contamination.
Safety
Slip-resistant surface to prevent falls
LVT flooring’s slip-resistant surface is designed to help prevent falls in a medical facility. It has a unique textured surface that is both abrasive and durable, providing maximum traction in hospital flooring. The flooring is designed to be slip-resistant even in wet or slippery conditions, making it an ideal choice for medical facilities.
Cushioning for staff and patient comfort
LVT flooring offers outstanding cushioning and comfort for staff and patients in a medical facility. Its soft, cushiony feel helps reduce the stress of long hours standing or walking. It also helps absorb shock, reduce noise, and cushion falls in hospital flooring.
Sound absorption to reduce noise levels
Sheet vinyl flooring flooring has excellent sound absorption capabilities which can help reduce noise levels in a medical facility. It has a high sound absorption index (NRC) of 0.85, making it ideal for reducing echo and reverberation.
The product also features a soft, cushion-like backing which creates a sound-deadening barrier between the floor and the subfloor, absorbing sound waves that would otherwise be reflected as vinyl flooring.
The product’s closed-cell construction also creates an effective barrier that helps to block sound from passing through the vinyl flooring. Additionally, LVT flooring can be installed with an acoustic underlayment which further increases the sound absorption capabilities of the product.
Design
Variety of colors and patterns are available to suit different areas and functions within medical facilities
LVT flooring is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it suitable for any area and purpose within a medical facility. Neutral colors, such as beige and light gray, are great for waiting for areas and corridors, while bright colors, such as blues and greens, are great for patient rooms and laboratories.
Patterns range from subtle to bold; from geometric shapes to wood textures. A sheet vinyl also comes in a variety of finishes, from matte to glossy, allowing for a unique look in any space. With the variety of colors and patterns, sheet vinyl flooring can be used to create a look that is both stylish and practical, making it a great choice for any medical facility.
Ability to replicate the look of other flooring materials at a lower cost
LVT flooring can replicate the look of natural stone, ceramic, and hardwood flooring at a much lower cost. The realistic visuals and textures of sheet vinyl flooring are achieved through high-definition imaging and embossing technology. The realistic look and feel of LVT flooring are further enhanced with its protective wear layer that resists scratches, stains, and fading especially in patient rooms.
Positive impact on patient experience and perception of the facility
LVT flooring has a warm and comfortable feeling on bare feet, helping to create a calming atmosphere in a healthcare facility. A sheet vinyl is resistant to spills and easy to clean, which can help reduce the spread of germs and improve patient safety. It is durable, so it will not show wear and tear easily, creating a sense of cleanliness and quality in the facility.
LVT flooring can come in various colors and designs to create an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere and create a more positive patient experience in patient rooms. It is quieter than other flooring options, which can help reduce noise levels in the facility and create a peaceful environment.
Cost-effectiveness
Lower installation and maintenance costs compared to other flooring options
LVT flooring has lower installation costs than other flooring options because it is easy to install and can be done with a minimal amount of tools. Additionally, LVT flooring is more durable than other flooring options, so it requires less maintenance and repairs than other flooring options.
It is also more cost-effective than other flooring options due to its long lifespan and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic especially in operating rooms.
Longer lifespan and reduced need for replacement
LVT flooring material has a longer lifespan than most other flooring types due to its durability and resistance to wear. The flooring is made from a synthetic material that is designed to last for many years without needing to be replaced. It is also resistant to water and moisture, meaning it is less likely to be damaged by spills or standing water.
Additionally, the material of a rubber flooring is easy to clean and maintain, meaning it requires less upkeep and replacement over time. This makes it an ideal choice for areas that experience high foot traffic, as it is less likely to need to be replaced frequently.
Potential for energy savings through improved insulation
LVT flooring has a high R-value, which is an indicator of insulation quality for a flooring manufacturer. This means that when installed correctly, LVT rubber flooring can help to reduce energy costs by reducing the amount of energy lost through the floor especially in operating rooms.
The R-value of LVT flooring is typically around 1.20, which is higher than many other flooring materials. Additionally, its closed-cell construction prevents air from passing through the flooring, further increasing the insulation benefits of LVT flooring.
Furthermore, the use of LVT flooring can reduce the amount of air conditioning and heating needed to maintain comfortable temperatures in a room. In some cases, this can lead to a reduction in energy costs of up to 10%.
LVT flooring offers a plethora of advantages to the healthcare industry. It is easy to clean, cost-effective, durable, and comfortable, and provides a non-slip and germ-free surface. These features make LVT flooring an ideal choice for medical facilities, providing a safe and hygienic environment for both patients and staff.
