When it comes to flooring options, two popular choices among homeowners are Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP). Both materials offer a range of benefits, from durability and lower cost compared to natural materials, to easy installation and maintenance.
While LVT and LVP share many similarities, they also differ in key areas. LVT is designed to mimic the appearance of ceramic or stone tiles, whereas LVP is made to look like hardwood planks. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of LVT and LVP flooring to help you decide which option is best suited for your home.
Contents
Comparing LVT and LVP Flooring
In this section, we will compare LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) flooring by examining their materials and composition, styles and finishes, durability, water resistance, and installation methods.
Materials and Composition
LVT and LVP flooring are both made from vinyl, which is a versatile and durable synthetic material. However, their compositions vary slightly. LVT is created by layering multiple vinyl components that are fused together through a lamination process. LVP, on the other hand, features a thicker core layer made from a combination of vinyl and limestone powder, providing additional stability.
Both LVT and LVP floors typically include a wear layer, a design layer with a printed image, a vinyl core, and a backing layer for added support. The layers can differ in thickness depending on the manufacturer and product line.
Styles and Finishes
LVT is available in various tile shapes and sizes, designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural stone or ceramic tiles. LVP, as the name suggests, comes in plank shapes and is primarily designed to resemble hardwood flooring. Both LVT and LVP offer a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures to choose from, making it easy to find a style that suits your desired aesthetic.
In addition to their visual appeal, LVT and LVP also come in different finishes such as matte, semi-gloss, and high-gloss, allowing you to achieve the desired level of shine for your space.
Durability
LVT and LVP are both highly durable flooring options. Their wear layers protect the surface from scratches, scuffs, and dents, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. The thickness of the wear layer can vary across products, with thicker layers providing better protection and increased durability.
While both LVT and LVP have a similar level of durability, the rigid core in LVP makes it slightly more resistant to indentation and impact damage. Additionally, LVP may have a longer lifespan due to its thicker core layer.
Water Resistance
Being made from vinyl, both LVT and LVP are highly water-resistant, making them suitable for use in areas with moisture or potential water exposure, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. However, it is essential to choose products with sealed edges and install them properly to prevent water infiltration and potential damage.
LVP, with its rigid core, offers somewhat better water resistance than LVT, as it is less likely to warp or buckle under prolonged exposure to moisture. In extremely wet environments, waterproof products, specifically designed for such applications, are recommended.
Installation Methods
Both LVT and LVP can be installed using a variety of methods, including glue-down, loose lay, or click-lock systems. The choice of installation method depends on factors such as the product’s design, subfloor type, and individual preferences.
While all installation methods share some common steps, such as proper subfloor preparation, the specific procedures can vary. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and, if needed, consult with a professional installer to ensure a successful and long-lasting result.
Cost Considerations
Price per Square Foot
LVT and LVP flooring differ in price points based on material and installation costs. When comparing the price per square foot:
| Type | Average Price per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| LVT | $2.50 – $5.00 |
| LVP | $3.50 – $7.50 |
These price ranges can vary depending on factors such as product quality, brand, and features like thickness and wear layer.
Maintenance Costs
Both LVT and LVP flooring are low-maintenance options, but the costs of maintaining them can vary:
- LVT flooring: Requires occasional sweeping and damp mopping, with a gentle cleaning solution. Coating it with a protective layer can help maintain its appearance, but adding this layer may increase maintenance costs.
- LVP flooring: Similar in maintenance to LVT, but due to its higher resiliency against scratches and dents, it may require less frequent protective treatments which could result in lower long-term costs.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintaining your flooring to avoid the risk of voiding warranties and to ensure optimal performance.
Environmental Impact
When comparing LVT and LVP flooring options, it’s essential to consider their environmental impact. Factors such as recyclability and indoor air quality play a vital role in determining the sustainability of these flooring materials.
Recyclability
Both LVT and LVP contain materials that can be recycled. However, the percentage of recyclable content can vary depending on the specific product and manufacturer.
- LVT typically features a higher recyclable content, with up to 50% post-consumer materials.
- LVP often contains around 40% recycled post-consumer PVC.
It’s essential to research specific products before making a decision, as these percentages can change based on factors like manufacturing processes and materials.
Indoor Air Quality
A crucial aspect of a flooring material’s environmental impact is the quality of the indoor air it contributes to. Both LVT and LVP are designed to be low-emitting materials, limiting harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted into the indoor environment.
Some manufacturers of LVT and LVP have obtained FloorScore certification, which verifies that their products meet strict indoor air quality requirements. Some of these certified products include:
| Manufacturer | Product |
|---|---|
| Armstrong | Luxe Plank with FasTak |
| Mannington | Adura MaxAPEX |
| Shaw | Floorté Pro |
By choosing a product with low VOC emissions and third-party certification, you can ensure that your flooring choice has a smaller environmental impact and provides a healthier indoor living space.
Best Brands
When it comes to LVT and LVP flooring, several brands have gained a reputation for their quality, durability, and design options. These brands are well-established in the flooring industry and offer a wide range of products to suit different budgets and preferences.
- Shaw Floors: Known for their long-lasting and high-quality flooring products, Shaw Floors offers a vast collection of LVT and LVP options. With a wide range of designs, this brand presents homeowners with stylish and innovative flooring solutions.
- Mohawk: A popular name in the flooring industry, Mohawk provides a broad range of LVT and LVP flooring options. As per their 2021 Sustainability Report, 85% of their hard surface products are based on recycled materials ensuring the environmental friendliness of their products.
- Mannington: With over 100 years of experience, Mannington offers a diverse selection of LVT and LVP options. Their design expertise and commitment to sustainability have made them a top choice for many homeowners.
- Armstrong Flooring: As an industry leader, Armstrong Flooring brings a variety of design choices and performance capabilities to their LVT and LVP products. With an array of styles available, Armstrong Flooring products cater to a wide range of customers.
When selecting the best LVT or LVP flooring for your home, keep in mind factors such as budget, design preferences, and the brand’s reputation. These top brands offer an array of choices that will ensure you find the perfect flooring solution for your space.
Best Applications
LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) and LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) flooring have different strengths and are best suited for various applications. In this section, we will explore their effectiveness in residential and commercial settings.
Residential Use
LVT is often preferred for its ability to mimic the appearance of natural materials like stone or ceramic tile, making it a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Its durability and resistance to moisture make it an excellent option for these high-traffic areas. Some key benefits of LVT for residential use include:
- Realistic visual appeal
- Easy installation
- Low-maintenance
- Water-resistant
On the other hand, LVP is primarily selected for its wood-like appearance, which makes it a popular choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where hardwood flooring is desirable. Key benefits of LVP for residential use include:
- Authentic wood-look designs
- Comfort underfoot
- Easy installation
- Scratch-resistance
Commercial Use
In commercial settings, both LVT and LVP have their own specific advantages. LVT is a popular choice for high-traffic areas such as retail stores, restaurants, and offices due to its durability, easy maintenance, and design flexibility. Key benefits of LVT for commercial use include:
- Ability to withstand heavy foot traffic
- Wide range of styles and patterns
- Resistance to staining and damage
- Easy replacement of damaged tiles
LVP, on the other hand, is often chosen for commercial spaces that require the warmth and aesthetics of wood flooring, such as hotels, conference rooms, and offices. Some key benefits of LVP for commercial use include:
- Authentic wood-look designs
- Durability in high-traffic areas
- Comfort underfoot
- Low-maintenance
Conclusion
In summary, both LVT and LVP flooring have their own unique benefits and drawbacks. LVT offers a more realistic and luxurious look, while LVP is known for its durability and water resistance.
Ultimately, homeowners should consider factors such as preference, budget, and room usage when deciding which flooring option best suits their needs. Additionally, it’s crucial to research authorized sources and investigate the numerical data before committing to either LVT or LVP.