Investing in the right flooring can significantly enhance the value and comfort of a home. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has emerged as a popular choice among homeowners looking for a balance of style and practicality.
Planning to get your own LVP flooring? Here are some reasons why LVP is the best investment for your home.
Long-Term Durability and Performance
LVP flooring is built to last, holding up well to everyday wear and tear.
Water Resistance
LVP is inherently water-resistant, which means it can be installed in areas of the home that are prone to moisture without concern for water damage. It can withstand spills and splashes, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
Scratch and Scuff Resilience
With a wear layer that provides protection, LVP is resistant to scratches and scuffs caused by pets, furniture, and footwear. The durability of this layer varies by product and is often measured in mils (a mil is one-thousandth of an inch).
| Wear Layer Thickness | Expected Performance Level |
|---|---|
| 6 mil | Suitable for light residential use |
| 12 mil | Appropriate for general residential use |
| 20+ mil | Recommended for commercial and high-traffic residential areas |
Stain Resistance
Its stain-resistant surface makes LVP a wise choice for homes with children or pets. Most common household spills can be wiped away without leaving a stain, maintaining the floor’s original appearance.
Aesthetic Appeal and Versatility
LVP flooring offers a dynamic range of design choices that closely mimic the look and texture of natural materials. It seamlessly integrates with various home styles, from classic to contemporary.
Design Options
LVP is available in an extensive variety of colors, patterns, and styles, making it a flexible choice for any room. Homeowners can choose from:
- Wood-Like Planks: Emulating different wood species.
- Stone-Like Tiles: Imitating materials like slate or marble.
Textures and Finishes
The textural details of LVP contribute to its realistic appearance and are available in finishes that enhance its practicality.
Finish options include:
- Matt: For a subdued, elegant look.
- Glossy: To add sheen and radiance.
- Embossed: Creating a raised texture that simulates wood grain.
Cost-Effectiveness
Installation costs for LVP are also lower because it’s easier to install and doesn’t require extensive subfloor preparation. The lower price point of LVP does not sacrifice quality, making it a wise choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Maintenance and Upkeep Savings
The savings continue after installation, as LVP is designed for durability and ease of maintenance. Its protective wear layer makes it resistant to scratches and stains, reducing the need for costly repairs.
Routine cleaning simply requires sweeping and mopping, with no need for specialized products. These attributes cumulatively lead to substantial reductions in upkeep expenses over the lifetime of the flooring.
Ease of Installation
LVP flooring stands out for its simplicity in installation, which can cater to both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and those preferring professional services.
Professional Installation Options
For those who prefer not to install their LVP, professional installation is readily available. Service providers can often complete an installation quickly due to the flooring’s straightforward design.
Choosing a floor installation professional such as 50Floor can ensure precision and efficiency, especially in complex layouts or larger areas. It also offers peace of mind through warranties and guarantees on workmanship.
The cost will typically vary based on the size of the area to be covered and any additional services such as old flooring removal or subfloor preparation.
Comfort and Acoustics
LVP flooring enhances home environments by providing both underfoot comfort and effective sound insulation, essential features for creating a serene and cozy atmosphere.
Underfoot Comfort
LVP offers a level of underfoot softness superior to traditional hard-surface flooring options. It is composed of multiple layers, including a core and a backing layer that contribute to its cushioning effect.
This softness reduces foot fatigue and provides a warmer surface, which is particularly appreciated during colder months.
Walking on LVP flooring allows you to enjoy extended periods of standing or moving around without the discomfort associated with harder surfaces like stone or ceramic tile.
Sound Insulation
LVP flooring offers a quieter home environment thanks to its comfortable, sound-absorbing layers. These layers not only cushion your steps but also minimize noise from dropped objects and foot traffic above – a major benefit in multi-story dwellings. Opting for thicker planks further enhances sound insulation.
Friendly on the Environment
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is gaining popularity not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its reduced environmental footprint. Manufacturers are increasingly offering eco-friendly and recyclable options, making them a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Many LVP products are constructed from materials that are less harmful to the environment. They often contain recycled materials, which reduces the need for virgin materials and the overall environmental impact of production.
LVP flooring also comes in phthalate-free options. Phthalates are chemicals used for flexibility in vinyl, but they raise health and environmental concerns.
Manufacturers may utilize renewable energy and water conservation practices. Look for LVP with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, certified by organizations like FloorScore.
Recyclability
At the end of its life cycle, LVP can be recycled to create new products, lessening its contribution to landfill waste.
Some programs allow consumers to recycle their old LVP flooring. This captures and reuses production scraps, reducing waste from the manufacturing process.
Warranty and Value Retention
Strong warranties add to LVP’s value proposition, potentially boosting your home’s resale value.
Manufacturers typically offer extended warranty periods for luxury vinyl planks, ranging from 15 to 25 years. This coverage generally includes protection against wear, stains, and fading.
A key warranty factor is the wear layer thickness, measured in miles. Thicker layers, such as 12-20 mils, offer longer warranties. LVP warranties last longer for homes (less traffic) than businesses.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
LVP flooring is known for its ease of upkeep, which contributes to its cost-effectiveness over the long term. A proper cleaning regimen can preserve the appearance of LVP, while its design facilitates straightforward repair and replacement when needed.
Routine Cleaning:
- Sweep or vacuum without a beater bar to remove loose dirt and grit.
- Mop using a damp mop with warm water and a mild cleaner designed for LVP.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners, steam mops, or wax-based products, which can damage the floor’s surface.
Spills and Stains:
- Blot up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Use a manufacturer-recommended stain remover or a diluted vinegar solution for tough spots.
Deep Cleaning:
- Perform a thorough clean periodically with a LVP-specific cleaner.
- Ensure the room is well-ventilated during deep cleaning sessions.
Invest in LVP Today: Start Building Your Dream Home
LVP flooring represents a blend of durability, aesthetic appeal, and value.
Homeowners who choose LVP benefit from its:
- High Resistance to Wear: LVP is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, scratches, and spills, making it ideal for busy households.
- Easy Maintenance: It requires only regular sweeping and occasional mopping, sustaining its look without extensive care.
- Design Versatility: With a wide range of colors and patterns, LVP can mimic the look of natural wood or stone, fitting various interior designs.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although not as inexpensive as some flooring options, LVP offers a favorable balance between quality and price, particularly when considering its longevity.
- Installation Efficiency: LVP’s click-lock design allows for quick and straightforward installation, often over existing floors, reducing labor time and costs.
In selecting LVP, one is not only investing in the appearance of their home but also its functionality and long-term value. This flooring solution stands as a sound decision for renovation projects or new installations alike. Let 50Floor help you get high-quality vinyl flooring for your home. We also offer luxury vinyl tile to elevate your space. View the areas we serve and reach out today to set up an appointment for vinyl flooring installation.
