What are the benefits of LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) flooring? What are its drawbacks? Is the higher installation cost the only significant disadvantage compared to laminate flooring? How is LVT flooring installed? Is vinyl flooring suitable for residential properties?
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In addition to traditional options like hardwood, ceramic tiles, and laminate, a modern and appealing alternative has emerged—Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT), commonly known as vinyl flooring. This type of flooring offers numerous advantages over conventional systems but also comes with some drawbacks. Although the installation cost is generally higher compared to laminate, this varies depending on the product class and type.
Despite the potential deterrent of cost, the list of benefits is considerable. Notably, LVT or vinyl flooring is now widely used in both residential and commercial properties, enduring heavy traffic with ease.
Advantages of LVT Flooring
- Variety of Designs and Colors: The most apparent advantage of LVT flooring is its extensive range of colors and designs. Options include wood, stone, and textile imitations. LVT tiles also come in various shapes, making it easier to create diverse design combinations. Experienced designers can use vinyl flooring to craft visually stunning interiors.
- Easy Customization: Compared to laminate, LVT flooring is easier to cut and fit, allowing for limitless design possibilities. This flexibility is a significant advantage over laminate.
- Sound Absorption: The structure of vinyl floors better absorbs sounds, comparable to carpets or cork floors, effectively reducing noise. This feature is particularly beneficial in residential buildings, public spaces, and offices.
- Comfort: LVT floors are comfortable underfoot, especially if you walk barefoot at home, as they are not cold to the touch.
- Easy Maintenance: Maintenance is straightforward – regular vacuuming or mopping with a damp cloth is sufficient.
- Quick Installation: Vinyl flooring is often chosen for commercial spaces due to its quick installation. If the surface is well-prepared and level, an entire area can be transformed in just a few hours without creating mess, dirt, noise, or dust.
- Moisture Resistance: A notable advantage over laminate is LVT’s superior resistance to moisture. While laminate can swell upon contact with water due to its high wood content, vinyl remains unaffected.
Installation Methods
There are three primary methods for installing LVT flooring:
- Glue-Down: This method is ideal for high-traffic areas. It provides a durable and stable floor but requires more experience.
- Click System: Easier than glue-down, this method involves interlocking tiles without the need for adhesive.
- Loose-Lay: This method is used for quick renovations, allowing for fast removal and reinstallation, making it perfect for showrooms and exhibition stands.
Disadvantages of LVT Flooring
- Surface Preparation: LVT flooring requires a perfectly smooth subfloor to avoid visible imperfections. For instance, if installing over rustic ceramic tiles with wide, deep grout lines, these must be filled and leveled first. In this regard, laminate is more forgiving.
- Synthetic Materials: Some avoid LVT because it is made from synthetic materials, while laminate consists primarily of wood. However, reputable LVT manufacturers guarantee their products’ safety with certifications.
- Durability: Although LVT is durable under heavy use, it is more susceptible to damage from sharp objects and furniture with wheels compared to other flooring types. However, many LVT manufacturers offer warranties up to 15 years, highlighting its longevity.
Conclusion
LVT flooring is distinct from hardwood or ceramic tiles. Unlike floors installed for a lifetime, LVT allows for efficient and cost-effective redecoration over time. Its versatility, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic potential make it a compelling choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Foto: Tarkett