What is LVT Flooring and How Does it Compare to Other Flooring Options?

 LVT Flooring , or Luxury Vinyl Tile, is an attractive and cost effective alternative to traditional hardwood and stone flooring options. It comes in a wide variety of styles and design patterns to fit any decor and is ideal for busy families and pet owners who want low-maintenance floors.

Unlike other types of flooring, luxury vinyl tile is thin, easy to install, and durable enough to handle heavy traffic. It is a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms as well as other areas that experience heavy foot traffic or moisture problems.


The Core Layer

The core of an LVT Flooring  is a strong, flexible Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) base that sits directly on the prepared subfloor and provides stability. This is the foundation for the rest of the product, which can be any combination of planks or tiles and is often available in both glue-down and click-together varieties to suit different installation methods.

Once the core is in place, LVT planks or tiles are then bonded together using a clear vinyl and urethane coating at the end of the manufacturing process to provide a softer surface that is easier on the feet and sound-reducing. Some newer LVT flooring systems use loose-lay systems that allow for easy installation without the need for extensive surface preparation.

Another key component of the flooring is the wear layer, which protects the rest of the material against dents and scratches. Most commercial grade LVT flooring has a wear layer no less than 8 mil, while residential products generally have a wear layer no less than 20 mil.

Design Layer

The design layer of an LVT floor is printed with a pattern that imitates a variety of natural surfaces. It typically replicates wood grain, but it can also imitate stone or fabric texture.

This printing process can be incredibly realistic, making it possible to get an appearance that is almost three-dimensional. The bottom of the LVT floor is then topped with a foam layer that gives it a slight cushion and provides a feeling of warmth underfoot.

A textured surface is sometimes added to the design layer, which adds a level of slip-resistance. This is especially important in commercial applications, where it can be a challenge to prevent slipping and falling accidents.

Photographic Layer

The photographic layer is a unique and exciting feature of LVT flooring, as it can mimic a wide range of wood or stone textures. This photorealistic look is made possible by the latest technology in flooring design and printing techniques.

These modern technologies make it possible to produce the most realistic designs of any type of vinyl floor. These can include intricate geometric patterns and realistic details like knots and crevices.

This layer is a great way to customize the look of your LVT floor, and it can be a huge part of your overall design strategy. It can be used to create a custom look for any room in your home, and it can even be cut and laid in complex patterns to give your floors a one-of-a-kind appearance.


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