Flooring options are seemingly endless today, thus resulting in confused consumers. Today we will focus on one of the most popular options: luxury vinyl plank flooring. It dominates the market, and for good reason.
Luxury vinyl flooring, commonly called LVP or LVT, is waterproof flooring that is affordable, durable, easy to install, and easy to maintain. Designed to mimic popular hardwood species or stone tile, finding a product that matches your home’s decor is easy. Since this flooring is durable and affordable, it is the perfect option for your budget renovation.
The Basics:
Because luxury vinyl is waterproof, it is suitable for all areas and levels of the home. You can have peace of mind when installing this flooring in bathrooms, entry ways, kitchens, and basements. The durability of the product makes vinyl plank suitable flooring for homes with active pets, children, and heavy traffic. Ease of installation is another attribute that makes this an ideal product for DIYers. The most common installation methods are click-lock or glue down. LVP can be installed on top of your existing subfloor.
How is Vinyl Flooring Made?
Vinyl flooring is a plastic product. While there are several different types of LVP, the main difference is always the core layer. Every vinyl plank floor is constructed with the same four layers in this order:
- Wear Layer – this is the most important layer!
- Print Layer
- Core Layer
- Underlayment/Backing
The top layer, or the wear layer, is the most important part of the floor. This layer is waterproof and scratch-resistant. After the wear layer is the print or decorative layer that gives the flooring its design and color. Next is the core. Lastly is the backing or underlayment and although you never see it, the underlayment is a very important part of the flooring as well because it increases the flooring’s resistance to moisture and mildew.
You will find that manufacturers often times add an additional protective UV-coating to strengthen the wear layer.
With advancements in printing technology, you will find that manufacturers are able to identically replicate the most popular hardwood species on the market. Many planks are textured to increase the hardwood look and feel of the flooring.
With gorgeous looks and unparalleled durability at affordable prices, waterproof flooring is ideal for all homes.