Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a type of flooring that offers the natural look of stone or tile with the added durability and easy maintenance of vinyl.
Luxury vinyl tile is a great flooring option for homeowners who want the look of natural stone, ceramic or tile without the high price tag. It’s durable, easy to maintain, and termite-resistant, making it a wise investment for your home.
If you are considering luxury vinyl tile for your home read this buyer’s guide to understand what rooms it works best in, how it can be installed and where to find a great selection to choose from.
What is Luxury Vinyl Tile Made of?
Luxury vinyl tile, or LVT, is a type of flooring that is made to look like stone or ceramic tile but is actually made from PVC. It is thicker and more durable than standard vinyl flooring and is often used in high-traffic areas or in places where moisture is a concern.
.LVT is made up of multiple layers, including a wear layer, a design layer, and a backing layer. The wear layer is the topmost layer and helps protect the floor from scratches, stains, and fading. The design layer contains the realistic image of stone or tile, while the backing layer provides stability and cushioning.
How is Luxury Vinyl Tile Flooring (LVT) Different from Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)?
Luxury vinyl tile flooring (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are two popular types of flooring that have a few key differences. For one, LVT is made up of tiles while LVP consists of planks. Secondly, LVT is thicker than LVP, which means it can handle more wear and tear. And finally, LVT is generally more expensive than LVP.
When it comes to installation, LVT is usually glued down while LVP is often floating. As for maintenance, both types of flooring are easy to clean and require little upkeep.
So, which is the better option? It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a durable flooring that can handle a lot of traffic, then LVT is a good choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then LVP might be a better option.
The Pros and Cons of LVT
LVT is a great option for many homes, but it’s important to do your research before making a final decision. Consulting with a flooring expert during your shopping process will help get you the answers you need so you make the right decision for your home.
Like any flooring material, there are both pros and cons to consider before making a purchase. Here are some of the main considerations
LVT Pros
- Durable – LVT is a very tough and durable flooring option. It can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and entryways.
- Easy to Clean – LVT is also easy to clean and maintain. spills and dirt can be easily wiped up, and the surface is resistant to staining. Keep in mind that LVT flooring is a bit more delicate than other types of flooring. It’s important to take care when walking on it and to avoid scratching or scuffing the surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the floors.With proper care, however, your LVT flooring can last for years.
- High-end Look – LVT can give any room a luxurious and high-end look. The tiles come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find an option that fits your décor.
LVT Cons
- Higher Cost – LVT is more expensive than other types of flooring, so it’s important to factor that into your budget. However,compared to other types of luxury flooring, like marble or hardwood, LVT is a more affordable option. Save money on LVT flooring, by shopping around for deals and discounts. For example, a flooring warehouse will be able to sell the same great name brands you can find anywhere else but at a discounted price.
- Not as Warm – LVT can feel cold underfoot, so it’s not the best choice for rooms that are not heated.
- Difficult Installation – One of the biggest drawbacks to LVT is that it can be awkward and heavy and ultimately very tricky to install. For this type of flooring, hiring a professional installer who is familiar with the product is going to be your best bet.
How is Luxury Vinyl Tile Installed?
There are two different ways to install luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring: the click method and the glue-down method. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right installation method for your particular needs.
The click method is quicker and easier to install, making it a good choice for do-it-yourselfers or busy homeowners who don’t have a lot of time to spare. The downside of the click method is that it can be more expensive, since you’ll need to purchase special Click LVT flooring which can be pricier than regular LVT.
The glue-down method is more traditional and generally considered to be more durable, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas or homes with pets. However, the glue-down method is more time-consuming and difficult to install, so it’s best left to professional flooring installers.
When it comes to luxury vinyl tile installation, it’s important to take your time and do it right. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the basics of the LVT installation process.
- Preparing the Surface – Luxury vinyl tile can be installed over most existing floors, but it’s important to make sure the surface is clean, dry, and level before you begin. If you’re installing LVT over an existing floor, you may need to sand or scrape off any old wax or sealant.
- Lay Out Your Tiles – It’s important to plan ahead and lay out your tiles in advance, so you know exactly where each one will go. This will help you avoid any mistakes during installation.
- Install The Tiles – Once you have your tiles laid out, you’re ready to lay your tiles.
- Click – If you’re using the click method, just make sure all the pieces are lined up correctly before pushing them together tightly. They’ll snap into place and stay secure. Start by trimming the tongue edge of the first tile and then laying it flat, remembering to leave appropriate space between the tile and the wall. Then take the next tile and insert the tongue of the tile into the groove of the previous tile at an angle. Lower it, and the two tiles should snap into place. Continue in this way until you reach the other side of the room, at which point you should trim your last piece of vinyl down to size. When you get to the second row, you’ll continue in a similar manner.
- If you’re using glue down luxury vinyl tiles, spread a thin layer of adhesive on top of the subfloor before placing the tiles in position. Use a trowel or squeegee to spread out the adhesive evenly. Be sure to use enough adhesive so that the tile will stay in place, but don’t use so much that it squeezes out from under the tile. Press each tile into place and then use a roller to ensure that it’s properly adhered. You’ll want to allow at least 24 hours for the adhesive to dry before walking on the floor or moving onto grouting.
- Grout the Joints – Mix up some grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions and then spread it into the joints with a grout float. Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess grout.
- Seal for Floor– Allow the grout to dry for at least 24 hours before sealing the floor. Sealing the floor will help protect it from stains and wear.
How to get LVT for Your Home or Business
If you are looking for a durable, beautiful, and easy-to-care-for flooring option, then LVT may be the right choice for you.
There are a few things to consider before purchasing LVT, such as the cost, installation, and maintenance. LVT is not cheap, but it will last longer than most other types of flooring. Installation can be tricky, so it is best to hire a professional. Once installed, LVT is easy to maintain and will not require much work on your part.
The pros and cons of LVT flooring we’ve outlined should help you make the best choice for your home or business. If you decide that LVT flooring is the right choice for you, our team at Floor It 41 can help with the selection and installation process.
We have years of experience installing all types of flooring and will make sure the job is done quickly and correctly so you can enjoy your new floors as soon as possible. Ready to get started? Give us a call today to discuss our inventory of luxury vinyl tile!
