Torn between LVT vs LVP flooring? They’ve both emerged as popular hard surface flooring options due to their versatility and durability, but which one is the better option for your home? While they share many similarities, their distinct characteristics can affect your home’s overall look and feel. Let’s explore the key differences in LVT vs LVP flooring and help you determine which one is the perfect fit for your space.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring material made up of multiple layers. The three main layers are the core, print layer, and wear layer. The core is the thickest layer of vinyl flooring and provides structural stability. It can be made using stone plastic composite, wood plastic composite, or magnesium oxide. Investing in vinyl flooring with a high-quality core not only improves its resiliency, but also its lifespan.
The print layer is what replicates other types of hard surface flooring, like wood, stone, or tile. High-quality vinyl flooring can also mimic the texture of different flooring materials. This layer is what allows you to not only match existing aesthetics in your home, but also to obtain the look of wood, stone, or tile floors at a lower price.
The wear layer is typically made of Polyurethane and protects the print layer from stains and scratches. The thicker the wear layer, the more protected your vinyl flooring becomes. So, if you’re placing vinyl flooring in high-traffic areas, consider investing in vinyl with a thicker wear layer. If you choose the right thickness for your wear layer, and properly care for it, vinyl flooring can last up to 20 years.
Once you understand the role of the three main layers of vinyl flooring, you’re certain to appreciate its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. The next step in selecting the perfect flooring for your home is understanding the differences between LVT vs LVP flooring, the two main types of vinyl flooring. Each offers unique benefits, making it essential to choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and design goals.
What is the Difference Between LVP and LVT?
Before we learn more about the differences in LVP and LVT flooring, let’s look at why these terms are often used interchangeably. Many of the benefits of Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring can be applied to Luxury Vinyl Plank, including its ability to replicate the look and feel of other, more expensive flooring material, at a lower price. They’re both known for their durability, water resistance, and ease to maintain.
So what, exactly, is the difference between LVP and LVT? A few things, but the most prominent difference is how they are cut. LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) is cut into planks similar to hardwood floors. LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) is cut into squares to give a more realistic stone or tile feel. You can buy LVT that looks like hardwood, but LVP provides a more seamless look since it’s shaped into planks.
You’ll also notice a difference of thickness when comparing LVT vs LVP flooring. LVP flooring is often thicker than LVT, creating a warmer and softer feeling underfoot, much like real hardwood. This added thickness also provides better sound insulation. Although LVT is not often as thick as LVP, an underlayment layer can increase your comfort and noise insulation.
Another difference between the two is how LVT vs LVP is installed. LVT often requires an adhesive to secure it in place, while LVP is often installed using a click-lock system that allows it to be placed on top of existing floors if they are clean, level, and in good condition. While both LVP and LVT can be a DIY project, we recommend professional installation to guarantee a proper fit. Let our team of experienced installers transform your space with LVT or LVP flooring.
LVT and LVP flooring offer stunning, durable, and affordable alternatives to natural materials, but their differences in shape, thickness, and installation methods make them each uniquely suited to specific needs. Up next, we’ll break down the LVT vs LVP flooring comparison to help you choose the flooring that aligns with your style and lifestyle needs.
Which is Better: LVT or LVP Flooring?
Whether you decide if LVP or LVT flooring is the better option will depend on the style of your home and your lifestyle. Are you looking for the clean elegance tile (and therefore LVT) can bring to your home, especially for flooring in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms, or do you prefer the warmth and comfort wood brings to a space, in which case LVP is a better option?
You’ll also want to consider where in your home you’re renovating, not only for the aesthetic each flooring type provides, but also for durability. If it’s a high traffic area, installing thicker vinyl flooring, like LVP, can increase its longevity. However, if you’re set on the look of LVT, ask about the thickness level of the wear layer to see if both LVT and LVP flooring are comparable for your needs.
When it comes to installing your new LVT or LVP flooring, you’ll want to think about your level of expertise and the complexity of the job. LVT requires precise adhesive application and placement to ensure a successful installation, whereas, if your room has numerous corners or irregular shapes, LVP can be challenging to install without leaving noticeable gaps. While a DIY approach may seem appealing, professional installation can provide a stress-free and seamless experience.
Ultimately, choosing LVT vs LVP flooring requires careful consideration of your priorities and lifestyle. By thinking about the style and functionality needed in each room, you can select the flooring that best meets your needs.
Where to Buy Vinyl Flooring Near Pittsburgh, PA
Floor Concepts carries LVT and LVP flooring from multiple brands, ensuring our customers have a variety of styles to choose from. Our knowledgeable flooring experts are happy to walk you through our showroom, helping you compare LVT vs LVP flooring with samples side-by-side and providing personalized advice to meet your unique needs.
The choice between LVT vs LVP depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both offer exceptional durability, water resistance, and style. Ready to choose your new flooring? Stop by our Wexford, PA showroom to see if LVT vs LVP flooring is the right choice for your home, or contact us to learn more about the vinyl flooring we offer. Plus, don’t forget to take advantage of our free in-home measurements to make your flooring project as smooth as possible. Floor Concepts provides local flooring solutions to greater Pittsburgh, PA and the North Hills area. Get in touch with us today!
