LVT is a good choice for people who want to keep their floors looking nice. It’s inexpensive to clean and doesn’t retain stains like carpet. You can even install it over your current floor, saving money. But beware of using abrasive and harsh cleaners. If you’re concerned about stains, you should mop the entire floor before you apply a commercial cleaner.
When installed correctly, LVT offers a lifetime warranty. Although vinyl is not a natural product, it can be protected with a clear coat. Moreover, vinyl flooring is scratch and stain-resistant. Where can you install it? The thickness of the flooring can determine its application. Besides, vinyl is not recyclable, so you may have to replace it every few years. In addition, the flooring cannot be refinished.
The top layer of LVT flooring is not UV-protected, so the wood look may fade after some time. You can also buy window film that blocks harmful rays from sunlight. Lastly, LVT can fade in the sun. If you don’t want your floors to fade, you can move furniture regularly to prevent fading. Also, a regular room refresh is crucial to keep it looking great.
Some people aren’t comfortable removing their floors. If they move, they should remove the flooring carefully. Some people glue their floors down to avoid this issue. Those who aren’t comfortable with this step should hire a flooring professional. But if you’re a complete amateur, a DIY job may be out of the question. So, what are the disadvantages of LVT flooring?
LVT is a great choice for those who want a high-end hardwood look at a more affordable price. It is easy to install, and it can replicate the look of wood with fewer materials. In fact, there are gluless floating and full-spread gluedown options. LVT is also easier to repair than traditional hardwood, but it doesn’t feel as comfortable barefoot as hardwood.
Although LVT is cheap and easy to install, it is not an eco-friendly option. It can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which is why it’s not suitable for wet areas. Although LVT is easy to clean, it doesn’t add much resale value to your home. Besides, it’s not eco-friendly and is hard to recycle.
LVP is a composite product made of multiple layers, each with their own purpose. These layers are made to work as a unit, resulting in a resilient flooring. While it looks like wood, LVP comes with the durability of vinyl. Its backer board layer is made of PVC, but it’s not waterproof. The center core provides stability and water resistance. The top layer is a laminate that mimics wood or stone, making it ideal for a variety of interior decors.
LVT is not as thick as hardwood. You’ll need to install additional sub-flooring and purchase special cleaning products to keep it clean. But its durability is another plus. And its water-resistant properties make it a great choice for families with kids or animals. The only real downside of LVT is that it can be messy. You should take this into consideration before purchasing it. You’ll be able to find the perfect flooring solution for your home by asking your local flooring retailer about the benefits and drawbacks of LVT.
LVT flooring is often considered a steal compared to hardwood flooring. It mimics the appearance of both wood and stone while costing a fraction of the price. You can install LVT flooring yourself for $2 to $5 per square foot. Hardwoods are also more expensive, ranging from $8 to $25 per square foot. You can expect to pay more for hardwood, but the price will be much lower than that of luxury vinyl flooring.