Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. This type of flooring offers a great alternative to traditional materials like hardwood or stone, with a wide range of design options to suit any style. However, like any flooring option, there are both pros and cons to consider before making a decision. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of luxury vinyl tile flooring to help you make an informed choice for your space.
What is Luxury Vinyl Tile?
Luxury Vinyl Tile is a high-quality, synthetic material that replicates the look of natural materials such as wood or stone but at a fraction of the price. This durable, easy-to-maintain, and waterproof flooring option is constructed of multiple layers that add to its design and ease of maintenance
- The polyurethane coating
- The protective clear layer known as the "wear layer"
- The print film layer
- The vinyl core
- And the tile backing
This construction gives LVT flooring its impressive durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and wear and tear. Additionally, LVT is known for its easy installation process, making it a popular choice for quick and easy home renovation projects.
There will always be both pros and cons to any type of flooring based on your lifestyle and family needs, but luxury vinyl tile flooring is a great option for all types of families and lifestyles.
Let's start with the pros!
The Pros of Luxury Vinyl Tile
Durability
As mentioned above, luxury vinyl tile is comprised of multiple layers, with a clear top layer over the design that protects the floor from scratches, stains and fading. So, it's safe to say that luxury vinyl tile is built to endure that busiest homes.
Waterproof
Another benefit of LVT flooring is its resistance to moisture. Unlike natural materials such as hardwood and stone, luxury vinyl tile is waterproof, making it perfect for areas prone to spills and splashes, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This moisture resistance also makes LVT a great choice for basements and other areas with high humidity levels, where traditional flooring options may be susceptible to mold and mildew.
Design Options
With a wide range of colors, styles, and patterns available, LVT flooring offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization. Whether you prefer a traditional wood look, a modern geometric design, or a bold statement pattern, there is a luxury vinyl tile option to suit your style and complement your home’s decor.
Affordability
Luxury vinyl tiles are a good value because they're not only long-lasting, but they're less expensive than ceramic tile or hardwood flooring, even though they can create a very similar look. With a wide range of colors, styles, and patterns available, LVT flooring allows you to achieve the look of natural materials without the hefty price tag
Easy to Clean & Maintain
The natural materials that luxury vinyl tile can be designed to look like, like hardwood and stone, are known to have more than enough maintenance requirements to help prevent them from getting and looking damaged. Fortunately, with luxury vinyl tile, clean up and maintenance are easy! Regular sweeping and occasional mopping is all that is needed to keep your floors looking their best, saving you time and effort on upkeep. Additionally, LVT is pet-friendly, as it is resistant to scratches and stains caused by pets’ claws and accidents, making it a practical option for households with furry friends.
The Cons of Luxury Vinyl Tile
Non-Biodegradable
Unfortunately, luxury vinyl tile is not biodegradable. When disposed of, they stay in garbage dumps and can't be recycled. So, if environmental care is a critical factor in your decision-making process, this is a disadvantage to consider.
Damage from the Subfloor
Successful installation of vinyl tile requires proper subfloor preparation because it will adapt to the surface it's applied to. So, if there are any irregularities on the subfloor, they will definitely show through the vinyl tile and will show an uneven appearance and possibly cause gaps.
Slippery Surface
Accidental water spills are a common occurrence on luxury vinyl tile flooring due to its smooth surface and water-resistant properties. This poses a safety risk as wet floors can become slippery and increase the likelihood of slips and falls. It is important to quickly clean up any water spills on luxury vinyl tile flooring to prevent accidents and ensure a safe living environment for everyone in the household. Mats or area rugs can also be placed in high-traffic areas to absorb any excess water and provide additional traction to reduce the risk of falls.
Choosing The Right LVT Flooring Option For Your Home
When selecting Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring, consider the specific needs of your space. Opt for thicker wear layers if your area experiences high foot traffic to minimize scratching. Take into account the color and pattern of the LVT flooring to complement your existing décor style. Additionally, it is crucial to seek professional advice on installation to ensure a seamless and long-lasting finish. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the best luxury vinyl flooring that not only enhances your space aesthetically but also meets your practical requirements.
Visit Avalon Flooring for Your Luxury Vinyl Tile Needs
If you’re considering choosing LVT for your home, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our design consultants, or visit one of our showroom locations to see it for yourself! Avalon Flooring is committed to providing our customers with exceptional service, and our team of flooring specialists will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
