Houston Flooring Company Texas, situated in the heart of Houston, TX, specializes in offering premium flooring solutions, including hardwood floors and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). In this blog, we will explore what luxury vinyl plank is, how it differs from standard vinyl, and why it has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses.
Traditionally, vinyl floors have been the top choice for moisture-prone rooms. Standard vinyl is water-resistant but can be prone to gouging and tearing, and it could be a more comfortable surface, especially when installed over concrete. To address these issues, the flooring industry introduced luxury vinyl flooring. Luxury vinyl, available in semi-rigid planks (LVP) or tiles (LVT), features click-lock interlocking edges like laminate flooring. Although luxury vinyl appeared in the 1970s, it gained popularity as a flooring material in the 2000s. Luxury vinyl flooring offers durability, water resistance, and easy installation, making it an excellent choice for home renovations and high-traffic areas.
Understanding Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
What is Luxury Vinyl Plank?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a type of flooring engineered to replicate the appearance of natural hardwood floors. It consists of multiple layers, each offering distinct advantages, such as durability, stability, and aesthetic appeal.
Key Features of LVP
- Realistic Wood Appearance: LVP is designed to closely resemble natural wood, offering various colors and textures.
- Durability: LVP is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
- Water Resistance: One of the standout features of LVP is its water resistance, making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Ease of Installation: LVP often comes with click-and-lock installation, making it easy for DIY projects or professional installation.
Standard Vinyl vs. Luxury Vinyl – What is the difference?
Appearance
Standard vinyl sheet flooring and vinyl tiles are often designed to mimic the look of ceramic or stone tiles. However, numerous designs, patterns, and colors are available, including options that resemble wood. Despite these choices, the wear layer of standard vinyl flooring is typically a smooth, solid surface, making the simulated cracks between “planks” less convincing. This type of flooring is commonly found in older homes, like your grandmother’s kitchen. Vinyl flooring remains a popular choice due to its versatility, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) and luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are popular flooring options that mimic the look of natural materials. LVP is often designed to replicate the appearance of wood, while LVT is crafted to look like stone or ceramic tiles. Modern luxury vinyl flooring offers incredible realism in appearance and texture, making it a top choice for homeowners. With a vast array of colors and styles available, there’s something to suit every taste and décor. Whether looking for wood-look vinyl planks or stone-look vinyl tiles, luxury vinyl provides a durable and stylish solution for any space.
Water and Heat Resistance
All vinyl flooring is water-resistant and waterproof, making it an excellent choice for any home. Luxury vinyl flooring includes seams between tiles or planks, which means that, although rare with professional installation, water might seep through. This gives standard sheet vinyl a slight advantage in total water resistance. Both types of vinyl flooring withstand normal heat and direct sunlight exposure. Whether you choose luxury vinyl or sheet vinyl, you’ll enjoy durable, water-resistant flooring that is perfect for any room.
Care and Cleaning
This category is a tie, making the homeowner the real winner. Both standard and luxury vinyl flooring are easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning with daily sweeping or vacuuming and a weekly damp mop using warm (not hot) water and mild soap keeps them in top condition. Unlike old resilient linoleum floors, modern vinyl flooring doesn’t need sealers or waxes. Choose vinyl flooring for a low-maintenance, durable, and stylish home upgrade.
Durability and Maintenance
Standard vinyl flooring has a relatively soft surface prone to dents, scratches, and tears. Repairing damaged vinyl flooring can be challenging, often leading homeowners to replace or cover the floor once wear and tear become noticeable. Upgrade your home with durable vinyl flooring solutions to avoid frequent replacements and enjoy a longer-lasting, beautiful floor.
Luxury vinyl flooring boasts enhanced durability thanks to its thicker wear layer and high-quality material. If a plank gets damaged, it can be easily replaced without replacing the entire floor. Durable vinyl flooring, easy maintenance, and high-quality vinyl are key features that make luxury vinyl an excellent choice for your home.
Lifespan
Standard vinyl flooring typically lasts around 10 years, while high-quality vinyl brands can last up to 15 years. Luxury vinyl flooring is more durable and, with proper maintenance, can last up to 25 years. For long-lasting and durable flooring options, consider investing in luxury vinyl.
Resale Value
Standard sheet vinyl flooring is often considered a budget-friendly option, but it doesn’t boost real estate value. On the other hand, luxury vinyl planks and tiles typically offer higher resale value, making them a better investment for your home.
Comfort and Sound
Standard vinyl flooring is a very thin material that can feel hard and cold underfoot, especially when installed over concrete subfloors. In contrast, luxury vinyl flooring offers a softer feel underfoot and provides better sound-blocking properties. This improvement is particularly notable in luxury vinyl products with built-in cork or foam underlay layers. Additionally, top-quality luxury vinyl flooring often surpasses laminate flooring in terms of comfort. Choose luxury vinyl for a warmer, quieter, and more comfortable flooring option.
Why Choose Luxury Vinyl Plank?
Benefits of LVP
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its realistic wood appearance, LVP enhances the beauty of any space.
- Durability: Its robust construction ensures long-lasting performance even in high-traffic areas.
- Water Resistance: LVP is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other moisture-prone areas.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain, LVP retains its appearance with minimal effort.
Ideal Applications
- Residential Spaces: Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Commercial Spaces: Suitable for offices, retail stores, and other high-traffic areas.
Conclusion
Looking for more options on hardwood flooring or planning a new flooring project? Our wide range of high-quality hardwood flooring options is designed to meet all your needs, whether you prefer a classic, contemporary, or rustic look. Contact one of our knowledgeable design consultants or call 281-541-0831 for expert assistance and personalized recommendations. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from selection to installation. At Houston Flooring Company Texas, we offer a wide selection of LVP to meet your specific needs and preferences. Visit our showroom in Houston, TX, or contact us today to learn more about our luxury vinyl plank offerings and how they can transform your space.
FAQs
1. What is the cost difference between LVP and standard vinyl?
LVP is generally more expensive than standard vinyl due to its superior construction and realistic appearance. However, the investment is worthwhile for the added durability and aesthetic appeal.
2. Can LVP be installed over existing flooring?
Yes, LVP can often be installed over existing flooring, provided the surface is smooth, clean, and level. This makes it a convenient option for quick renovations.
3. How do I maintain and clean LVP flooring?
Maintaining LVP is easy. Regular sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris and occasional damp mopping with a mild cleaner will keep your LVP floors looking their best.
4. Is LVP suitable for homes with pets?
Yes, LVP is an excellent choice for homes with pets. Its durable surface resists scratches and stains, and its water resistance helps protect against accidents.
5. How long does LVP flooring typically last?
With proper care and maintenance, LVP flooring can last 15-20 years or more, making it a long-lasting flooring solution for any home or business.