What is LVT Flooring
Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring (LVT), is designed to mimic the look of natural materials like wood or stone, despite being predominantly made from PVC and other plastic polymers. LVT’s rise in popularity in recent years can be linked to its durability, ease of installation and maintenance and enabling a wide range of design options. LVT flooring, particularly rigid core SPC, has impressive waterproof qualities, making it suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, unlike most carpets and some laminate flooring options.
Much like other flooring types, LVT is comprised of multiple layers
- The wear layer – this is effectively the uppermost layer of the LVT, and therefore the layer that will be walked on by family members, friends and pets if you have any. This is why the thickness of the wear layer is an important factor to consider when purchasing LVT, as a thin wear layer will be easily scratched by a pet’s claws, or from the friction of a chair being dragged against it.
Notwithstanding that the wear layer on LVT is typically more durable than hardwood or laminate, and if you get the typical residential wear layer (0.3mm) or commercial (0.5mm), scratches will only appear through significant damage
- Design Layer – this is the layer that has the LVT’s design printed on it. It is another key component of LVT as the quality of the print is directly linked to how similar the LVT planks look to wood or stone.
As with the wear layer, modern manufacturing techniques and machinery have enabled the design prints to be of a very high quality, making them virtually identical to their hardwood/laminate planks.
It is this recent breakthrough in high definition printing which has made LVT so popular in recent years. LVT has been a more durable and long lasting alternative to hardwood planks for decades, but has only become as visually pleasing since recent breakthroughs in design prints
- Core Layer – this is the thickest layer of a LVT plank, provides its structural stability and rigidity. Traditionally, this layer was made from PVC, but modern planks are made from either stone polymer composite (SPC) and wood polymer composite (WPC) which contain stone powder and wood chips in their core layer respectively, hence the reference to “stone” and “wood” in their name.
The materials that make up the core layer, such the stone powder and PVC mix that make up SPC, is what makes LVT more durable and waterproof than other flooring types.
- Attached undelay – many modern LVT planks, particularly rigid core planks with a click system, have an attached underlay. This is usually made from a thin layer of high density foam, and saves you from having to lay out a separate underlay on your floor before you lay your LVT.
Benefits of LVT Flooring
It is this predominantly plastic composition of LVT, alongside the modern manufacturing processes which binds the various layers together strongly, which results in the various benefits that LVT has over other flooring options, including:
- Many LVT flooring types, such as SPC, are waterproof, and can be used in kitchens and bathrooms
- Modern technology has enabled the decorative layer to be detailed enough that it resembles wood or stone very precisely, whilst often being more cost effective than flooring made directly of stone or wood.
The precise and high definition printing also allows customers to choose from a wider variety of colours and designs, rather than the limited options available with real wood.
- Rigid core LVT typically has a straightforward click system that binds each LVT plank together, making it easy for DIYers to fit their own flooring. Even if external fitters are used, the simplicity of laying and clicking the planks should enable them to offer cheaper fitting rates than other more complex flooring solutions
- The attached underlay provides excellent soundproofing, hides minor subfloor imperfections and makes fitting the floor much more straightforward.
- LVT flooring, to a certain extent, is compatible with underfloor heating, making it feel warmer on your feet than cold surfaces like tiles.
- Like most flooring types, LVT prices can range from very cheap to very expensive, however there are high quality LVT options on the market for relatively cheap prices, and given its durability and longevity, is typically more affordable than most other flooring types.
Types of LVT flooring
We have already made reference to the fact that there are various types of LVT depending on how they are to be installed in your home:
- LVT planks with a click system – as the name suggests, each plank has a groove which allows it to be clicked with the next plank. Despite the LVT flooring not being glued down to the floor, it operates perfectly as a “floating floor”, and unless there are imperfections at the subfloor level, the LVT planks stay well connected and durable for many years.
- LVT planks with a glue down system – traditionally, and as with carpets, this LVT type requires adhesives to glue the LVT planks down to the floor
In order to create a clicking mechanism that won’t flex or break, modern LVT planks with a click system or made with a rigid core (SPC or WPC). The stiff core ensures the “floating” LVT flooring has superior stability, and the planks stay “clicked” together even after years of people and pets walking over it.
There is another advantage of LVT planks with a click system, namely that it is much more forgiving of subfloor imperfections. The rigid core of the planks allows them to be laid over minor lumps and bumps without these showing through, and allows these planks to be laid over existing floors including old vinyl or tiles.
Glue down LVT typically has a flexible core, and the planks are typically thinner and more pliable. This flexibility is necessary for the planks to glue down effectively to the floor when the adhesive is applied, hopefully creating a strong and stable floor.
Whilst glue down LVT can be extremely durable, and suitable for commercial settings with heavy footfall, the flexible core and thinner planks require the subfloor to be prepared and imperfections to be removed for the end result to be as long lasting as possible.
You may also have come across other LVT types such as Loose Lay or Peel and Stick flooring, but for a durable, long-lasting investment, most high-quality LVT will use either a Click or Glue Down system.
In fact at Citadel flooring, we believe that LVT planks with a click system are most effective, from installation through to maintenance, and is the reason why we primarily sell LVT floors with a click system on our store
LVT vs Laminate flooring
Both LVT and laminate planks are cost effective and durable alternatives to real wood flooring. They even look similar, hence why customers are often faced with a difficult choice picking between the two.
So if they look similar, what is the difference:
- As we have referenced above, rigid core LVT is comprised of a plastic and stone/wood mix
- Laminate flooring on the other hand is made from high density fiber board (HDF), which is effectively a compressed mix of wood fibres and resin/wax
The difference in the core material is ultimately what separates LVT and laminate. Laminate planks are water resistant, however if water makes it way to the HDF core, it can become permanently damaged.
Some people do install laminate flooring in their bathroom and kitchen, hoping a professional fitting will keep the water from the core, however the core layer of LVT makes it 100% waterproof, and much more suitable to kitchens and bathrooms.
Other than LVT being a better option for areas prone to water spills, what other differences are there between laminate and LVT floors?
Both laminate and LVT are very durable and scratch-resistant. Laminate’s core material makes it more brittle, and whilst unlikely, more susceptible to chips to the top layer. LVT planks can be more resilient and less likely to chip, whilst also having good scratch resistance from the wear layer, as long as the wear layer itself is thick enough.
Both options offer highly defined designs which mimic the look of real wood to a high degree, and click lock systems make both easy to fit. And from a price point of view, it is difficult to say which option is more affordable, as both options have ranges from cheap price points to luxury options which are very expensive.
Moreover both options promise longevity, with many warranties for both products coming up to 20 years. Whilst you cannot say with any level of certainty that one product has better longevity than the other, many flooring companies do provide longer warranties for their LVT products, suggesting they are more confident that it has a higher chance of lasting longer.
Overall, whilst both products are excellent and cost effective alternatives to real wood, LVT planks are better suited for water prone areas as they are fully waterproof, allowing them to be laid across all areas of a residential property. Moreover, they potentially have a longer lifespan than laminate, often coming with longer warranties.
Room Suitability
We have referenced the suitability of LVT to practically all areas of a house, given its waterproof qualities and durability.
Its however important to note the following factors to consider when deciding which rooms to lay LVT in and which LVT types are most suitable for each room:
- Wear Layer – a critical factor to consider when deciding on room suitability. It seems to be widely agreed upon that a 0.3mm wear layer is enough for all areas of a residential property, including high footfall areas and at Citadel flooring, we share this view.
Some people may be however feel more comfortable choosing a thicker wear layer for hallways and living rooms with high footfall, particularly if they have large families or many pets, albeit this extra thickness means more expensive LVT planks, despite it not being needed
It is also widely agreed upon that commercial properties require a thicker wear layer, of 0.5mm and above, although this is normally referenced for the likes of grocery stores and airports. Smaller offices and commercial properties with a normal level of footfall could also get away with a 0.3mm wear layer
- SPC/WPC – for areas of the home which require waterproof planks, including bathrooms and kitchens, SPC planks are typically a better option, as the stone and plastic mix that comprise the plank’s core make it strongly waterproof against spills and drops of water.
Can you DIY or do you need a professional fitter
One of the major benefits of LVT flooring is the ease in which it can be fitted. Particularly in the case of LVT planks with a click system, DIYers can, with relative ease, fix the planks into place, and with simple tools, such as a laminate cutter, ensure that room edges are reached.
Moreover, with the attached underlay, and assuming no major floor imperfections, little if any preparation is needed before the LVT planks can be fitted, and an entire room can potentially be fitted with LVT within a day, depending on the size.
Glue down LVT is slightly more challenging. Any subfloor imperfections need to be ironed out and dealt with before the planks are laid out. Applying the adhesive and laying out the planks must be done with meticulous care and attention, and improper fitting can lead to issues with the floor several months down the line.
Professional fitters could therefore be a more appropriate option for glue down LVT, and it is worth factoring this into your flooring budget.
Professional fitters can also be used for click LVT, especially if there are major subfloor imperfections, but also for the peace of mind that comes with a professional and experienced fitting process.
Overall, and given the total cost of the LVT planks pre-fitting is not likely to be small in the first place, it is definitely worth considering an extension to a flooring budget for fitting, whether you are going with the click or glue down options.
How many packs/planks do I need to order
Most websites, retail shops and even wholesalers will advertise their LVT at a price, per square metre. Individual LVT packs however can have enough planks to cover anywhere between 1 and 3 square metres.
It is therefore imperative that before ordering either the LVT planks themselves, or the booking in the fitter, that you, or a professional, measures out the rooms that will have LVT fit in them.
Lets say that, for example, you want to fit LVT in your kitchen and it is a perfect square measuring 3m by 3m, the total area you need to cover is 9 square metres.
The next step, which may not be obvious, is to add at least 10% to the area of the room (ie 9.9 square metres). This is to cover for the cuts you or your fitter will need to make to fit the planks around the edges of the room, around doorways, or simply to account for mistakes that may be made.
You then select the LVT you want to buy, and lets say each pack covers 2.2 square metres. You will need to buy 5 packs, despite the fact that this covers 11 square metres and there will be inevitably be some planks left over once the room is fully laid out.
Whilst this small amount of excess is not ideal, unless your room is exactly proportional to the square metre size per LVT pack you have ordered, some excess will be necessary.
LVT Maintenance
LVT may be a cost effective alternative to real wood planks, but if you fit LVT in multiple rooms in your house or office, it is still likely to be a significant purchase.
It is therefore imperative, even if you have selected and fitted a high quality LVT, that your flooring is maintained adequately to minimise any potential scratches or chips and maximise the longevity of the LVT.
An important first step is to apply soft furniture pads to all table and chair legs, or for that matter all furniture which has the potential to slide and move. These pads create an extra layer of protection and ensure that even if they slide across your LVT, the wear layer is not scratched.
Second is to ensure your regular cleaning routine uses a simple floor cleaner, and avoid the use of harsh chemicals such as bleach. It is also best to avoid mopping your floor with boiling water, as the steam could also damage the wear layer and gaps between LVT planks over time.
Despite LVT being waterproof, it is best practise to wipe up spills quickly, especially if they have the potential to stain, such as coffee or tea. This includes using bathmats in your bathroom.
Using rugs in high footfall areas of the house, such as hallways, or even under your desk-chair given you may roll back and forth on desk chairs frequently, can add an extra layer of protection, although not absolutely necessary.
If you read the reviews of people online who have had quality LVT flooring for 5, 10 or even 15 years, you will see a common thread that it has held up very well, but whilst they may not always mention their maintenance and cleaning routine, it remains an integral part of ensuring your LVT flooring keeps its colour and design intact, the wear layer is not scratched and the planks stay firmly clicked together.
