3 Major Benefits to Installing LVT and LVP Flooring in Your Home
Traditionally, high-end homes have flaunted the timeless elegance of hardwood flooring. However, the challenges of warping and scratching, and the maintenance anxiety of parents and pet owners have led to the massive quest for innovative alternatives. In today’s post, we'll explore the game-changing world of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT).
Get ready to be impressed by durability and style without the traditional hardwood headaches!
Pro #1: Designed to Be Damage Free
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is engineered to withstand the test of time, lasting 10-15 years or more. Some of the best are accompanied by a limited lifetime guarantee. With no need for refinishing, it boasts a wide variety of faux wood options and plank widths for a custom floor that can suit any taste.
On the other hand, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) comes with comparable warranties and also offers scratch and stain resistance. Both are deemed 100% waterproof (something hardwood and even laminate flooring would never dare boast!) - BUT only if installed correctly.
Whether you prefer real wood finishes, textured looks, or classic stone styles, LVT delivers. Both LVP and LVT thrive in high-moisture areas, making them especially desirable for kitchens, laundry rooms, and baths.
Pro #2: Inspired By an Easy Install
LVP takes the hassle out of installation, effortlessly snapping together. While some pre-planning, measuring, and cutting are required to avoid joint misalignments, it remains one of the easier materials to work with.
On the flip side, LVT offers the flexibility of either snapping into place or gluing down, with fewer cuts needed due to their smaller profile.
Both LVP and LVT ease the burden for homeowning diy-ers and professionals alike. Compared to hardwood flooring, a faster installation process and potentially reduced labor costs are all but guaranteed.
Pro #3: Built with Your Budget in Mind
LVP stands out as the most budget-friendly option, averaging $2-7 per square foot, with minimal ongoing maintenance costs compared to hardwood. Meanwhile, LVT, at an average of $5-12 per square foot, still offers a compelling alternative to traditional hardwood, often at a lower cost.
But don’t mistake these flooring options as cheap imitations. The affordability of LVP and LVT doesn't compromise quality, leaving room in your budget for other luxurious upgrades in your kitchen, bathroom, or home.
Con #1: There’s Always Gonna Be 2 Sides, Right?
I promised both pros and cons to the luxury vinyl flooring proposition, so here is the main drawback in my opinion.
Hardwood, engineered wood, and laminate flooring are all made with organic materials, which justifies the huge jump in investment for many people. It also accounts for the fact that hardwood is still found to add greater value to a home when preparing it to sell.
But, though vinyl flooring is made from plastic, most quality manufacturers have greatly reduced the levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in their products over the years, so the risk of off-gassing with LVP and LVT, in particular, is very low.
So, if you are looking for a luxurious and low-maintenance flooring option with a much more approachable price tag, and you aren’t planning on going anywhere for the next 5-10 years, luxury vinyl could be exactly what you are looking for.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Finish Without the Worry
In a nutshell, LVP and LVT have emerged as hard flooring champs, providing rich texture and natural beauty without the excessive worry or constant upkeep associated with traditional hardwood. I recommend you consider the eco-friendly options, weigh the potential off-gassing concerns, and decide if luxury vinyl is the right choice for you. If so, you can confidently envision your home as a place where luxury meets practicality seamlessly.
If you're ready to enhance the flooring in your home, reach out to us. We can't wait to hear about your project and help you make a selection that will add that perfect touch of luxury!
