Are you looking to upgrade your home or office space with luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, but don’t know where to start? Look no further: This Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best LVT Flooring for Your Space takes you through the process step by step. From understanding the different types of LVT to selecting the right design and style, you’ll find the perfect flooring solution for your space.
LVT flooring is a great choice for any space as it offers comfort, durability, and beauty. It’s easy to install, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of styles, colors, and textures. It’s also more affordable than other types of flooring, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Know more about the different types of LVT flooring including the popular brands in the market and the factors to consider when choosing which is the perfect fit for your space.
What is LVT Flooring?
LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. It is a type of vinyl flooring that is designed to look like real wood or stone. It is highly durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain. It is also much less expensive than traditional hardwood flooring.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable, slip-resistant, water-resistant, anti-bacterial | Not heat-resistant, prone to deformation |
| Imitates natural materials such as stone, tile, wood, etc., elegant and stylish | Not recyclable, has an impact on the environment |
| Easy to install, easy to maintain | Difficult to remove, glue is hard to clean |
| Reasonable price, high cost-performance | Some brands may contain harmful substances, affecting health |
Types of LVT Flooring
A. Glue-Down LVT Flooring
Glue-down LVT flooring is a type of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring that requires the use of adhesive to secure it to the subfloor. This type of flooring is ideal for rooms that have a high amount of foot traffic and are subject to frequent spills and moisture.
It is also a great option for DIYers who are looking for a flooring solution that is easy to install and can be done quickly. Glue-down LVT flooring is available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can easily find one to match the look of your space.
B. Click-Together LVT Flooring
Click-together LVT (luxury vinyl tile) flooring is a type of flooring that can be installed quickly and easily by any homeowner. It is made up of individual tiles that are designed to fit together like a puzzle, with a tongue-and-groove system that securely locks each tile in place.
This type of flooring is perfect for DIYers and those looking for a quick and easy way to upgrade their flooring. It is water-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. It is also available in a variety of colors and styles to fit any home décor.
C. Loose Lay LVT Flooring
Loose-lay LVT flooring is a type of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring that is designed to be installed without the need for adhesive. It is a great option for both residential and commercial spaces, as it is easy to install and maintain.
Loose-lay LVT flooring is available in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to complement any décor. It is also highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. With proper care and maintenance, loose-lay LVT flooring can last for many years.
D. Self-Adhesive LVT Flooring
Self-adhesive LVT flooring is a type of resilient flooring that is made of vinyl material and is extremely easy to install. It is a great option for DIYers and busy homeowners as it is incredibly quick and simple to install and also very durable and waterproof.
The self-adhesive backing eliminates the need for glue, nails, or staples and the floor can be installed over almost any existing subfloor. It is an ideal choice for busy areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways as it is very easy to clean and maintain.
| Flooring Type | Price (per square foot) | Durability | Water-resistance | Installation Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LVT Flooring | $2-$7 | High | High | Low |
| Solid Wood Flooring | $5-$15 | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Engineered Wood Flooring | $3-$14 | Medium-high | Medium-low | Medium |
| Tile Flooring | $3-$10 | High | High | High |
| Carpet Flooring | $1-$5 | Low | Low | Low |
Popular Brands of LVT Flooring in market
A. Shaw
Shaw’s LVT products come in a variety of styles, textures, and colors, making them a popular choice for homeowners and commercial spaces. They also offer high-quality features such as durability, easy maintenance, and water resistance.
Shaw’s LVT flooring is known for its realistic look and feels, making it a great alternative to natural materials like hardwood or stone. Overall, Shaw is a reputable brand that has been trusted in the flooring industry for many years.
B. Armstrong
Armstrong is another well-known brand in the flooring industry, including LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring. Armstrong offers a wide variety of LVT products, including plank and tile designs that mimic the look and texture of natural materials such as hardwood, stone, and ceramic tile.
Their LVT flooring is known for its durability, ease of maintenance, and resistance to water, scratches, and stains. Armstrong also offers a range of installation options, including traditional glue-down and floating floor systems. In summary, Armstrong is a trusted brand that provides high-quality LVT flooring options that are both stylish and practical.
C. Mannington
Mannington is another popular brand of LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring in the market. Mannington offers a wide range of LVT products with different styles, textures, and colors, providing customers with various options to choose from. Their LVT flooring is known for its durability, ease of maintenance, and resistance to water, scratches, and stains.
Mannington also offers various installation options such as traditional glue-down, loose-lay, and floating floor systems. Additionally, Mannington is committed to sustainability and offers environmentally-friendly LVT options.
D. Karndean
Karndean is a well-known brand of LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring in the market. Karndean offers a wide range of LVT products with different styles, textures, and colors, including wood and stone look options. Their LVT flooring is known for its durability, ease of maintenance, and resistance to water, scratches, and stains.
Karndean also offers various installation options such as glue-down and loose-lay systems. One of the unique features of Karndean’s LVT products is the use of their proprietary technology called “Looselay,” which makes it easier to install and maintain. Additionally, Karndean is committed to sustainability and offers environmentally-friendly LVT options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing LVT Flooring
A. Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring because it determines the longevity and maintenance of the flooring. LVT flooring is designed to withstand high foot traffic, scratches, and spills, making it an ideal option for areas that require durable floorings, such as commercial spaces, entryways, and kitchens. However, not all LVT products are created equal, and some may not be as durable as others.
Choosing a durable LVT flooring product means it will be less likely to show signs of wear and tear over time. It also means that the flooring will require less maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. Additionally, if you plan on installing LVT flooring in an area with high moisture or humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, choosing a durable option that is resistant to water and moisture is crucial to avoid any warping or damage to the flooring.
B. Style and Design
Considering style and design are important when choosing LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring because it affects the overall look and feel of the space. LVT flooring comes in a wide variety of styles and designs, including options that mimic natural materials such as hardwood, stone, and ceramic tile. This means that you can choose an LVT flooring option that suits your style and complements the existing décor of the space.
By selecting an LVT flooring product that matches the style and design of the space, you can create a cohesive look and feel that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the room. For example, if you have a traditional-style home, you may want to choose an LVT product that mimics the look of natural hardwood flooring to maintain the classic and timeless feel of the space.
Furthermore, choosing an LVT flooring product that has a unique and attractive design can add character and interest to the space, making it more visually appealing. This is especially important for commercial spaces that require a stylish and professional appearance to attract customers.
C. Installation Method
Considering the installation method is an important factor when choosing LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring because it affects the cost, time, and complexity of the installation process.
LVT flooring can be installed using various methods, including traditional glue-down, floating floor, and loose-lay installations. Each installation method has its benefits and drawbacks, and the method you choose should depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Traditional glue-down installation is a popular option for LVT flooring and involves adhering the tiles or planks to the subfloor using a special adhesive. This method is considered to be the most permanent and durable installation option and is ideal for high-traffic areas. However, this installation method is also the most time-consuming and expensive.
Floating floor installation involves interlocking the LVT planks or tiles together without the use of adhesive and allowing them to “float” on top of the subfloor. This method is easier and quicker to install than glue-down and may be more affordable, but it may not be as durable as glue-down installation.
Loose-lay installation involves placing the LVT tiles or planks on top of the subfloor without adhesive, but with the help of a special backing or adhesive strips. This method is easy to install and remove, making it an ideal option for temporary or commercial spaces that require frequent changes. However, it may not be as secure or durable as the other two installation methods.
Overall, considering the installation method when choosing LVT flooring ensures that you select an option that meets your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget and timeline.
D. Comfort and Sound Reduction
Considering the comfort and sound reduction is an important factor when choosing LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring because it affects the overall comfort and noise levels in the space.
LVT flooring is known for its durability and resistance to water, scratches, and stains. However, some LVT products may be harder and colder underfoot than other flooring options, such as carpet or hardwood, which can be uncomfortable for some people. Therefore, it is important to choose an LVT product that offers a comfortable surface to walk on, especially if you plan on installing it in areas where people will be standing for long periods, such as kitchens or commercial spaces.
Additionally, LVT flooring can be noisy when it comes to footsteps and other impact sounds. This is because it is a hard surface that does not absorb sound as well as other flooring materials. However, there are LVT products on the market that are specifically designed to reduce noise levels, such as those with foam or cork backing. Choosing an LVT product with sound reduction features can help create a more peaceful and comfortable living or working environment.
In summary, considering comfort and sound reduction when choosing LVT flooring ensures that you select an option that provides a comfortable and welcoming surface to walk on while also reducing noise levels in the space. This can greatly enhance the overall comfort and livability of the space.
E. Maintenance and Cleaning
Considering maintenance and cleaning is an important factors when choosing LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring because it affects the longevity and appearance of the flooring.
LVT flooring is known for being low-maintenance and easy to clean, but not all products are created equal. Some LVT products may require specific cleaning products or techniques, while others may be more resistant to stains and spills than others. Therefore, it is important to choose an LVT product that suits your specific needs and lifestyle.
In general, LVT flooring can be maintained by simply sweeping or vacuuming regularly to remove dirt and debris. It can also be mopped with a damp mop and mild cleaning solution. However, some LVT products may require additional maintenance or cleaning, such as applying a protective coating or avoiding certain cleaning products that may damage the surface.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best LVT Flooring for Your Space has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when choosing the best LVT flooring for your space. It is important to remember that LVT flooring is an investment, so it is essential to do your research and find the best option that suits your needs and budget. With so many options to choose from, you can easily create the perfect space for your home or office.
