Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is popular due to its durability, fashion-forward look, and water resistance. Whether you are remodeling a home or choosing flooring for a business property, you need to make a very well-informed choice. A thorough understanding of factors such as material composition, installation method, durability, and look will help to choose the best LVP that meets your needs.
This in-depth article will discuss all that you should keep in mind while purchasing luxury vinyl plank flooring.
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is formulated to replicate the appearance and feel of hardwood while providing greater resistance to wear and moisture. It consists of several layers that increase its durability and performance.
Material Composition
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is the main composition of LVP, providing flexibility, elasticity, and water resistance.
- Vinyl Core: This core determines the flooring structure. It can either be rigid (SPC) or flexible (WPC), influencing durability and comfort.
- Wear Layer: A thin transparent layer on the surface of the plank that gives scratch, stain, and fading protection.
- Printed Layer: High-resolution imagery that replicates the wood grain, stone, or tile textures.
- Backing Layer: Offers stability and can have an attached built-in underlayment for sound absorption and cushioning.
Types of LVP Flooring
Rigid Core (SPC – Stone Plastic Composite)
- Composed of stabilizers and limestone, and is very long-lasting.
- Perfect for heavy-traffic areas because of its resistance to dents.
- 100% waterproof, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Wood Plastic Composite (WPC)
- A softer core for greater comfort when walking.
- More sound-absorbing than SPC, making it suitable for residential homes and apartments.
- Waterproof but not as rigid as SPC, prone to indentation by heavy furniture.
Glue-Down LVP
- It requires professional installation using adhesive.
- Offers a highly durable and long-lasting flooring solution.
- Usually applied in business complexes where heavy foot traffic is expected.
Durability: The Role of Wear Layer
The wear layer is the most significant determinant of how much LVP can withstand daily wear and tear.
Wear Layer Thickness Guide
- 6 mil: Ideal for light household use, like guest rooms or spaces with little traffic.
- 12 mil: Best for typical residential use, including living rooms and bedrooms.
- 20 mil: An excellent choice for homes with children and pets, since it is scratch- and scuff-resistant.
- 28 mil+: Best suited for commercial use and heavy usage areas where toughness is the top priority.
The more substantial wear layer provides greater protection from damage, lengthening the life of your flooring.
Core Type: Choosing Between SPC and WPC
The core layer of LVP defines stability, durability, and comfort.
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite)
- Made with a strong core that will not dent or be damaged by heavy furniture.
- Provides better dimensional stability, therefore it won’t expand or contract with temperature change.
- Ideal for high-traffic locations, basements, and commercial use because of its utmost durability.
WPC (Wood Plastic Composite)
- Softer underfoot, with a more comfortable walking feel.
- It successfully minimizes noise, making it perfect for apartments, bedrooms, and offices.
- A little more flexible than SPC, but just as fully waterproof.
Waterproof and Water-Resistant Properties
LVP flooring can be waterproof or water-resistant, depending on the material.
Key Considerations for Waterproofing
Fully Waterproof LVP
- Specifically formulated for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements with high moisture levels.
- Features a water-resistant core and a seam-free locking system to avoid water entry.
Water-Resistant LVP
- Tolerates humidity and spills but may not tolerate prolonged exposure to water.
- It is suitable for living rooms and corridors but must be avoided in moist areas.
Thickness and Comfort Underfoot
LVP thickness aids in durability, sound absorption, and general comfort.
Common Thickness Options
- 4mm: Affordable and thin, but might need an underlayment for support.
- 6mm: Offers a balanced combination of durability and affordability.
- 8mm+: It offers more comfort, improved noise reduction, and more insulation.
Installation Methods: Click-Lock, Glue-Down, and Loose Lay
LVP flooring can be installed in different ways, according to your preference and experience.
Click-Lock (Floating Floor)
- Easy to install with no adhesive.
- It works great over existing floors.
- Affordable and ideal for domestic use.
Glue-Down LVP
- Provides a tighter fit
- It must be professionally installed.
- Suitable for commercial use and high usage.
- Decreases mobility and offers a more enduring flooring solution.
Loose Lay
- It employs weight and friction to maintain its position.
- The individual planks are easily replaceable.
- Ideal for temporary installations or rental properties.
Aesthetic Appeal: Colors, Textures, and Finishes
LVP has a variety of styles that suit various interior designs.
Design Considerations
- Wood-Look Designs: Mimic oak, maple, walnut, and other hardwood species.
- Embossed Textures: Develop a wood grain look for an authentic feel.
Finish Options
- Matte Finish: Hides scratches and smudges very well.
- Glossy Finish: Gives a smooth, shiny finish but will reveal more flaws.
Underlayment: Noise Reduction and Moisture Barrier
Underlayment provides comfort, reduces noise, and provides moisture protection.
Benefits of Underlayment
- Reduces sound transmission, particularly in apartments and multi-story homes.
- This addition provides padding, and floors become softer and more comfortable to walk on.
- It assists in defending against dampness damage, particularly when applied over concrete subfloors.
Brand, Warranty, and Pricing Considerations
- Reputable Brands: Find companies with good warranties and good reviews.
- Warranty Coverage: Choose LVP with a minimum of a 15-25-year home warranty and a 10-15-year commercial warranty.
- Pricing Guide: Budget $2 to $6 per square foot, with the high-end costing more than $6 per square foot.
LVP Flooring for Every Space in North Carolina
LVP flooring is the perfect option for any room in your home or business. Whether you need waterproof flooring for the kitchen or a high-end wood-look option for the living room, having a quality supplier ensures that you get the best quality within your budget.
Conclusion
By considering the durability, water resistance, installation process, and aesthetic appeal, you can make a sound decision and choose the perfect Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring for your needs.
What is the most important factor to consider when buying luxury vinyl plank flooring?
The key factor to consider when purchasing luxury vinyl plank flooring is the thickness of the wear layer because it plays a significant role in the durability and lifespan of the flooring.
How is SPC vinyl plank flooring different from WPC vinyl plank flooring?
SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) is hard, very resistant to wear and tear, and water-resistant, hence better for heavy-traffic areas. WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) is softer, more comfortable to walk on, and best for domestic spaces where sound control is necessary.
Is luxury vinyl plank flooring waterproof?
The majority of LVP flooring is 100% waterproof, particularly SPC and WPC core products. However, some typical LVP products are water-resistant, i.e., they can withstand spills but not prolonged exposure to moisture.
Can luxury vinyl plank flooring be installed over existing floors?
Yes, luxury vinyl plank flooring can be installed over existing floors.
How long does luxury vinyl plank flooring last?
In regular conditions with appropriate maintenance and upkeep, LVP flooring will endure 15-25 years for residential, and 10-15 years for commercial applications.
What does the luxury vinyl plank flooring cost?
LVP is priced differently depending on quality and brand. Low-quality LVP is about $2-$3 per sq. ft., mid-quality LVP is about $3-$5 per sq. ft., and high-end is more than $5 per sq. ft.
