Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring is a popular choice in residential and commercial settings due to its versatility and range of designs. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision. This article explores 10 disadvantages of LVT flooring, offering a balanced view for those considering this type of flooring.
10 Disadvantages of LVT Flooring
1. Price
LVT, particularly in the ‘wood effect’ or ‘stone effect’ categories, is a pricier option compared to alternatives like laminate (wood effect) or linoleum (stone effect) flooring. Its cost can be a significant factor for budget-conscious consumers.
2. Artificial Looks
Despite its natural appearance, LVT’s mass-produced design layer can sometimes give away its artificial nature. This factor might be off-putting for those seeking an authentic look in their flooring.
3. Low Repair Potential
The wear layer of LVT, designed to protect the floor, is challenging to repair. Damage often requires a complete replacement of the vinyl tile, leading to potentially higher maintenance costs.
4. Difficulty to Remove
LVT installation methods like glue-down can make the removal process difficult. This can be an inconvenience for those who wish to change or replace tiles frequently.
5. Limited Durability
While LVT can last between 10 to 20 years, this lifespan isn’t as long as other flooring options like real wood or tile, which can last 25 to 50 years, making LVT less desirable for long-term investments.
6. Discolouration
Direct sunlight can cause thinner wear layers in LVT to discolour over time. This issue might affect the aesthetic appeal of the flooring in sun-exposed areas.
7. Weatherproofness
Not all LVT flooring is water-resistant. Variants with PVC or WPC cores are prone to water damage, restricting their use in areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
8. Harsh Underfoot Feel
LVT with an SPC core can feel hard underfoot, especially without an underlay. This can affect comfort, particularly in homes where a softer feel is preferred.
9. High VOC Levels
Some LVT products can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), affecting indoor air quality and potentially leading to health concerns.
10. Reduced Warranty
The shorter expected lifespan of LVT often translates to a shorter warranty period, typically around 5 years, compared to longer warranties offered with real wood flooring.
Mitigating the Disadvantages
Despite these disadvantages, there are ways to mitigate them:
- Price: Opt for 4mm thick LVT boards, which can be more cost-effective and comparable to quality laminate flooring.
- Artificial Looks: Mix and match different LVT styles to minimise the artificial appearance.
- Repair Potential: Choose LVT with a thicker wear layer (around 0.7mm) to reduce repair needs.
- Removal Difficulty: Select the click-type LVT for easier removal.
- Durability: Choose 8mm thick LVT with a 0.7mm wear layer made from an SPC core to enhance durability.
- Discolouration: In the UK, prolonged direct sunlight exposure is less common, but fitting blinds can be a simple solution.
- Weatherproofness: Ensure your LVT has an SPC core for better water resistance.
- Underfoot Feel: Use underlay, or choose LVT with built-in underlay for a softer feel.
Conclusion
While LVT flooring has its drawbacks, understanding and addressing these can help in making an informed decision. By considering these factors and choosing the right type of LVT, homeowners and businesses can enjoy the benefits of this versatile flooring option without significant compromise.
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FAQ
How Does the Cost of LVT Flooring Compare to Other Options?
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) generally presents a higher price point, especially in its ‘wood effect’ and ‘stone effect’ versions. It tends to be more expensive than alternatives like laminate for wood effects and linoleum for stone effects, which can impact those with tighter budgets.
Can LVT Flooring Look Artificial?
While LVT aims for a natural look, its mass-produced design layers can occasionally reveal its artificial nature. This might not align with preferences for a genuinely authentic flooring appearance.
What Are the Repair Considerations for LVT Flooring?
The top wear layer of LVT, which serves as a protective coating, is difficult to repair once damaged. Often, such damage necessitates replacing the entire tile, potentially increasing long-term maintenance costs.
Is LVT Flooring Durable Compared to Other Flooring Types?
LVT typically has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years, shorter than options like real wood or ceramic tiles, which can last 25 to 50 years. This factor can make LVT less appealing for those seeking longer-term flooring solutions.
What Are Some Ways to Mitigate the Disadvantages of LVT Flooring?
To counteract LVT’s drawbacks, consider choosing 4mm thick boards for cost-effectiveness, combining different styles to enhance appearance, opting for thicker wear layers for reduced repair needs, and selecting types with SPC cores for better durability and water resistance.
