Choosing the Perfect LVT Flooring for Your Space: Factors to Consider

 Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a type of flooring that can mimic the look of wood or stone without the limitations of natural products like scratches and heavy maintenance. It is an extremely durable flooring option that can be installed in both commercial and residential spaces.

LVT Flooring can be purchased in a wide range of different design options including realistic wood looks, herringbone patterns, and stone tiles. It can also be combined with other types of flooring in a room, or used as a floor to ceiling product.

Unlike laminate and sheet vinyl, LVT is manufactured with detailed designs and textures. It is often referred to as plank flooring, and it can be purchased in boxes of tiles that can be laid in a variety of ways, or used as a floor to ceiling solution.

 Three main layers to LVT flooring

There are three main layers to LVT Flooring: the backer board, the print layer, and the wear layer. The backer board provides stability and weight to the flooring, while the print layer is created using a variety of techniques that mimic authentic hardwood and stone. The wear layer is designed to withstand daily use and keep the design integrity of the product intact.

Aside from the calendering process, there are a few other processes involved in the production of LVT. The first step is to create a compound by mixing polyvinyl chloride resins with calcium carbonate. Once the formula is mixed, it is sent through a series of heated rolls to form a sheet.

 lamination process to produce the final product

The next step is to emboss the compound, a process that creates the appearance of stone or ceramic. Once the compound is finished, it is sent through a lamination process to produce the final product.

This lamination process involves multiple steps, but the most important is that the sheet of compound is sealed. This is a crucial step to make sure that the LVT will not fade in direct sunlight or in areas of heavy foot traffic.

Another key step is that the printed layer is made using a clear coating that will help protect the floor from wear and tear. Having a clear coating will also help prevent color fading in the long run.

 Stone plastic (SPC) or wood plastic (WPC)

Finally, the core of the product is a solid polymer that can be stone plastic (SPC) or wood plastic (WPC). These materials are incredibly tough and able to withstand heavy indentation and temperature changes.

Some brands of LVT are more robust than others, and some are better suited for high-traffic areas. One brand that takes a strong lead in this category is Karndean.

With a 4.6 rating on Feefo and a 20-year warranty, Karndean's LVT has a great reputation.

Amtico is another good brand with a fantastic reputation and a great choice of designs to choose from. They also offer a lifetime warranty on their signature LVT line.

Conclusion

There are several other companies that manufacture luxury vinyl floors, and they all have a unique set of features. Some are specifically engineered for commercial applications, such as acoustic backing and sound-dampening properties.