What’s the Difference Between LVT and LVP?

You may have heard of "LVT" and "LVP," but what exactly are they?

LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank and has become increasingly popular in Richmond, VA. LVP is crafted in long, rectangular planks that mimic traditional hardwood. Both types of flooring are made from polyvinyl chloride plastic, which allows them to be colored and textured to resemble various materials such as wood, stone, and ceramic.

LVT, or Luxury Vinyl Tile, refers to vinyl flooring designed to look and feel like traditional tile.

^{Luxury Vinyl Plank}

Although LVT and LVP are essentially the same in that they are both luxury vinyl flooring, they differ primarily in their shape and installation methods. LVT is designed in square tiles, while LVP is longer and shaped like planks to imitate oak, birch, maple, and other types of wooden flooring.

One of the significant advantages of LVP is that it tends to be cheaper than high-end types of lumber, such as hickory and mahogany, while replicating their natural appearance. This allows homeowners to achieve an elegant look without breaking the bank. Unlike traditional wood, LVP is almost completely waterproof if it's properly installed, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

When it comes to installation, LVP is available in different forms. One type clicks together to create a floating floor that sits on top of the subfloor. Another type, known as “loose lay,” relies on the weight of the planks to stay in place without clicking together. There are also thinner options that are glued down directly to the subfloor.

^{Luxury Vinyl Tile}

Similarly, LVT offers both floating and glue-down installation options. One of its biggest advantages over traditional tile is the ease of installation. Unlike regular tile, LVT doesn't require grout and creates less of a mess, so it's much easier to put in place than old-fashioned tile.

Additionally, LVT is softer than traditional tile, making it more comfortable to walk on. Plus, vinyl flooring is not brittle like tile, which means it's less prone to breaking when things are dropped on it, making it a more forgiving option for busy households. So, whether you decide to go with LVT or LVP, both are great options. Now, let's take a more detailed look at the composition of vinyl flooring.

Both LVT and LVP consist of four basic layers:

1. Wear Layer: This layer is a see-through, protective urethane sealant that makes the vinyl flooring durable and water-resistant. Despite being only thousandths of an inch thick, it is crucial for the flooring's resistance to wear and tear.

2. Print Layer: The print layer is a thin film that gives the vinyl flooring its appearance, making it the look of ceramic, stone, or wood. This layer is visible through the clear wear layer and comes in thousands of options.

3. Core: Depending on the type, the core can make the vinyl flooring either flexible or rigid. Rigid cores, such as those made from stone plastic composite (SPC) or wood plastic composite (WPC), offer enhanced durability and waterproofing, with SPC being the harder and denser option.

4. Underlayment: This is a bottom layer that can be made from materials like felt, rubber, or foam. The underlayment provides cushioning, insulation, and sound absorption, making your flooring more comfortable and quiet. It also adds durability and acts as a moisture barrier to protect the vinyl. Underlayment may come pre-attached to the vinyl or be sold separately, so be sure to check the product details before you make your purchase. 

Both LVT and LVP have their unique strengths. Both types of flooring are known for their durability, water resistance, and ability to replicate a wide range of materials. Thanks to advanced printing technology, vinyl can mimic everything from wood to stone and modern ceramic, making it easy to find the perfect look for any space. Whether you choose LVT or LVP, you can’t really go wrong.

Author:

Aaron Randolph

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