Looking for the perfect flooring for your home? Look no further than Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). With durability, style and low maintenance LVT is worth considering. Choosing the right LVT can turn your living space into a beautiful and practical haven.
Choosing can be overwhelming. Whether you’re on a budget, design or the environment, there’s an LVT for you. This guide will help you identify what to look for so you get the best value for your money.
By the end of this article you’ll know what to look for when choosing the perfect LVT flooring. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
What is LVT Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring is a popular choice for its durability, variety and versatility. This section explains its composition, types, durability and environmental impact.
LVT Composition
LVT flooring is made up of multiple layers that provide strength and flexibility. These layers include a wear layer, printed design layer, core layer and backing layer.
- Wear Layer: This top layer is for scratch and stain protection.
- Printed Design Layer: This layer shows realistic designs, wood, stone and other materials.
- Core Layer: Made of PVC, this layer adds durability and slight cushioning.
- Backing Layer: Provides extra stability and support for the subfloor.
LVT Types
LVT comes in two formats: Glue-Down and Click-Lock.
- Glue-Down: Requires adhesive for installation, more permanent and suitable for high traffic areas.
- Click-Lock: Interlocking edges for DIY projects and easy replacement.
Different surface finishes are available, smooth, textured and embossed. Each provides a different look and feel.
Durability and Usage
LVT is known for its durability, can withstand heavy foot traffic and water and stains. Suitable for high traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms and commercial spaces.
LVT Environmental Impact
While LVT is made of PVC, manufacturers are getting more eco-friendly. Many brands now offer LVT with recycled content or sustainable production methods.
Pros:
- Recyclable: Some lines are 100% recyclable.
- Low VOC Emissions: Good for indoor air quality.
Cons:
- PVC: The main material is not eco friendly.
Choosing LVT from eco-friendly brands can help reduce the eco impact.
Choosing the Right LVT
When choosing the right LVT flooring consider your needs, wear layers, thickness and textures and finishes. Each plays a part in getting you a durable and stylish floor that’s right for you.
Your Needs
To choose the best LVT, first assess your needs. Where will you be installing the flooring? For high traffic areas like kitchens or hallways you’ll need a more durable option. For bedrooms, comfort and look may be the priority.
Do you need water resistant or waterproof flooring especially for bathrooms or basements? Do you have pets or kids? If so, scratch resistant and easy to clean may be the way to go. Write down all these factors to help you decide.
Wear Layers
The wear layer is key to the lifespan of your LVT flooring. This is the top layer that protects against wear and tear. Thicker wear layer means better scratch, stain and dent resistance.
Wear layers are measured in mils. For residential use 12 to 20 mils is enough. For commercial use or high traffic areas 20 mils or more. By choosing the right wear layer you’ll get a great looking floor that will last longer.
LVT Textures and Finishes
LVT flooring comes in different textures and finishes that mimic wood and stone. So you can get the high end look without the maintenance hassle.
Smooth, embossed and hand scraped textures. Finishes are glossy, matte or textured to add realism. When choosing, consider the design of your room and choose a texture and finish that matches it. For example hand scraped texture can add character to a rustic or farmhouse style room.
Choosing the Right Underlay for LVT Flooring
Choosing the best underlay for LVT flooring is key to get the best performance and comfort of your LVT flooring. The underlay is the foundation, it provides extra support, insulation and sound reduction. Here’s how to choose the right underlay for you:
1. Subfloor Condition
Before choosing an underlay, check the subfloor condition. If it’s uneven or prone to moisture, choose an underlay with moisture resistant properties and extra thickness to provide a smoother surface for the LVT. This will not only extend the life of your flooring but also comfort underfoot.
2. Sound Insulation
If sound reduction is a priority—especially in multi level homes or apartments—look for an underlay with high acoustic ratings. These underlays are designed to absorb sound, making your space quieter and more comfortable. This is especially important in areas like bedrooms and living rooms where noise can be a disturbance.
3. Comfort and Warmth
For a softer and warmer feel underfoot choose an underlay with thermal insulation properties. This type of underlay is good for areas where you spend a lot of time standing like kitchens or living rooms. It can also contribute to energy efficiency by keeping your space warmer during colder months.
4. Match the Underlay to the LVT Thickness
Make sure the underlay you choose matches the thickness of your LVT flooring. A thicker underlay can provide extra cushioning for thinner LVT, while a thinner underlay is better for thicker LVT to avoid a spongy feel. The goal is to get a balanced and supportive foundation that will enhance the feel and durability of your flooring.
5. Compatibility
Not all underlays are compatible with all types of LVT flooring. Some LVTs require specific underlays especially in commercial areas where there’s heavier foot traffic. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendation to make sure you choose an underlay that’s suitable for your type of LVT.
6. Moisture Protection
If you’re installing LVT in moisture prone areas like basements or bathrooms, consider an underlay with built-in moisture barriers. These underlays will prevent moisture from seeping through the subfloor and protect your LVT from damage and extend its life.
LVT Design Inspirations
Discover the latest LVT trends, how to choose the right colours and patterns and make sure your flooring matches your decor to style and function your space.
Current LVT Trends
LVT designers are going for realistic textures and patterns that mimic natural materials like wood and stone. Wide planks are in fashion, making the space look modern and spacious.
Herringbone and chevron patterns are gaining popularity, adding a touch of elegance. Matte finishes are replacing glossy ones, giving a more natural and lived in look. More eco-friendly options are emerging, reflecting the trend towards sustainability.
Colour and Pattern
When choosing colours, consider your lighting and existing colour scheme. Neutral tones like greys and beiges are timeless and versatile. For a bolder look darker shades like deep oaks and rich walnuts can create a nice contrast.
Patterns like straight lay or diagonal can affect the room’s perception. Smaller spaces may need lighter colours and simpler patterns to make them look bigger, while larger spaces can handle more intricate designs and darker hues.
Match LVT to Decor
Consider your existing decor when choosing LVT. For a minimalistic look solid colours or subtle patterns will do. If your decor is more traditional, realistic wood or stone patterns will enhance the classic look.
Match warm toned floors with warm toned furniture and accessories to get a cohesive look. Pairing contrasting styles like modern LVT with vintage furniture will add a unique and eclectic touch to your home.
Summary
Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring is a versatile and stylish option that can turn any space into a beautiful and functional area. From understanding its composition to choosing the right design every step in the process of choosing LVT flooring matters.
And now that you’re armed with all the essential information, it’s time to take the next step and turn your flooring vision into reality.
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