According to data from the Home Improvement Research Institute, in the first quarter of 2024, an estimated 61% of homeowners planned on a home improvement project. Flooring is one part of any renovation that can’t be overlooked.
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a popular renovation project. There are two main types of vinyl flooring: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). Understanding the differences helps with selecting the best material for residential and commercial use.
What Is LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)?
Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring is mostly made from vinyl that resembles wood. This material is popular because of its durability, making it great for areas with a lot of foot traffic.
LVP consists of six to eight structural layers, including:
- Foam
- Cork or PVC backing
- WPC pr SPC core
- PVC
- Fiberglass
- Print, design, wear, and UV layer
Some LVP flooring also includes an antimicrobial layer.
What Is LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)?
LVT is one of the durable vinyl options that’s popular for its appearance. Designed to look like ceramic or stone, this flooring option is much more inexpensive than natural materials. This flooring option comes in every color of the rainbow, making it a perfect addition to any renovation.
Since LVT is extremely versatile, it’s a great material to print designs on.
Differences Between LVT and LVP
LVT and LVP both fall under the category of Luxury Vinyl Flooring. The main difference is in the shape, as LVT looks like a tile whereas LVP looks like hardwood floor planks.
LVT might be better suited for entryways, while LVP would be best in a dining room, office, or living space.
Since LVT looks like stone and tile, it might offer a cooler aesthetic compared to LVP. Since LVP offers a more seamless look, rooms appear larger. LVT allows for custom patterns and designs during installation.
Pros and Cons of LVP
LVP is widely used because of its affordability. It can be upwards of ten times more inexpensive than actual hardwood flooring.
Other pros include:
- Easy installation
- Gorgeous design
- High durability
- Plank flooring is low-maintenance
- Tons of beautiful choices
As with anything, there are pros and cons of luxury vinyl flooring. Some cons include:
- Inconsistent quality
- Difficult to remove
- Sunlight may cause issues (for less expensive brands without UV protection)
LVP can emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Pros and Cons of LVT
LVT is considered close to indestructible. This makes it a great flooring for any type of high-traffic area. Other pros include:
- Moisture and dampness resistance
- Ease of maintenance
- Easy to install
- Versatile
- Great value
Despite LVT’s pros, there are also cons. These include:
- Difficult to remove
- Weakness, which means heavy furniture can dent the vinyl
- Discoloration without added UV protection
- Materials aren’t usually eco-friendly or sustainable
As with any type of vinyl flooring, LVT can emit VOCs. This is why you need to work with an eco-friendly company.
Choose the Best Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
Luxury vinyl plank flooring offers many benefits, from ease of installation to durability and cost-effectiveness. Choosing between LVP and LVT comes down to style, each offering plenty of aesthetically pleasing designs.
LX Hausys has all the building and decorative materials you need for your next project. Connect with one of our knowledgeable sales representatives today.