Vinyl Plank Flooring or LVP for short is a popular alternative to its natural counterparts, namely wood, stone and marble. Made using multiple core layouts, starting with a realistic design layer and ending with a strong baking, vinyl plank flooring is able to mimic the looks of natural wood, stone and marble without a hefty price tag and without the many limitations that natural materials pose. If you are considering vinyl plank flooring but still on the fence on its suitability for your home or office, here are notable advantages of vinyl plank flooring.
Durability
High Resistance to Wear and Tear
LVP stands out for its exceptional durability. Unlike traditional wood that can easily succumb to scratches and dents or stone that may crack, LVP withstands heavy traffic, pets, and the chaos of daily life with remarkable resilience. Its scratch, dent, and stain-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for busy households. Its scratch durability originates from the wear layer, a thin translucent PVC layer in thickness of 0.3mm to 0.7mm that creates a barrier between abrasion and the design layer.
Water Resistance
Ideal for Moisture-Prone Areas
One of the standout features of LVP is its water-resistant nature, particularly when equipped with an SPC core. This makes it an exemplary choice for areas prone to moisture like kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms. The ease of cleaning up spills adds another layer of practicality, especially in homes with young children or pets.
Ease of Installation
DIY-Friendly
LVP is known for its user-friendly installation process particularly when opting for click fit planks . It can be laid over most types of existing subfloors, eliminating the need for extensive preparation. The lack of specialised tools or skills required for its installation makes it a favourite among DIY enthusiasts.
Affordability
Budget-Friendly Flooring Option
Compared to other flooring materials such as hardwood or tile, LVP is significantly more affordable. This cost-effectiveness does not compromise on quality or aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive option for homeowners who are mindful of their budgets. You can find quality LVP floors from £20/m2 vs. £30/m2 in the case of wood flooring and even higher in the case of natural stone.
Variety of Styles
Wide Range of Designs
The versatility of LVP is evident in its wide array of styles. Whether you’re looking for a wood-look plank or a stone-look tile, LVP offers a plethora of options to seamlessly match your home’s décor. The use of printed design layer means that you are not restricted to the natural colours of wood or stone and on top of many styles, you can also find many colours.
Comfort
Soft and Quiet Underfoot
In contrast to the hardness of tile or concrete, LVP provides a softer, more comfortable walking experience. It also tends to be quieter underfoot, an attribute particularly beneficial in bedrooms and upper floors. Many LVP styles include an integrated underlay which further enhances the underfoot comfort element.
Easy Maintenance
Hassle-Free Upkeep
LVP’s maintenance routine is straightforward and undemanding. Regular sweeping or mopping with mild detergent is sufficient to keep it looking pristine, with no need for waxing or polishing.
Versatility
Suitable for Any Room
The adaptability of LVP is one of its key strengths. When using with an SPC core, it can be installed in any room, from high-moisture areas like bathrooms to cosy living rooms, making it a versatile flooring option for any home style.
Warmth
Cosy and Insulating
LVP offers a degree of warmth that is often lacking in stone or tile flooring. This quality makes it a favourable option in colder climates and provides a comfortable surface for bare feet.
Soundproofing
Noise Reduction Qualities
LVP’s ability to reduce noise transmission is particularly valuable in creating a peaceful environment in bedrooms and home offices. Noise reduction is particularly apparent with vinyl plank flooring that includes a built in underlay.
Hypoallergenic
Allergy-Friendly
For those with allergies, LVP is a sensible choice. Being hypoallergenic, it doesn’t harbour dust or allergens, contributing to a healthier indoor air quality.
Environmentally Friendly
Sustainable and Recyclable
LVP’s composition often includes recycled materials, and it is recyclable itself, making it an eco-friendly flooring option.
Low Maintenance
Minimal Upkeep Required
The low maintenance nature of LVP is a significant advantage. It requires no waxing, polishing, or refinishing, keeping the effort and cost of upkeep to a minimum. The wear layer (0.3mm to 0.7mm) can handle mopping with ease which is all that is required for vinyl plank flooring upkeep.
Pet-Friendly
Resistant to Pet-Related Damage
For pet owners, LVP is an excellent choice due to its resistance to scratches and stains. Cleaning up after pets is also straightforward, making it a practical and hygienic option.
Variety of Textures
Diverse Textural Options
LVP comes in a range of textures, from smooth finishes to more tactile surfaces, offering something to suit every preference.
Easy to Clean
Simple Cleaning Routine
The ease of cleaning LVP is unmatched. A simple sweep or mop with mild detergent is all that’s needed to maintain its appearance.
Underfloor Heating Compatibility
Works Well with Heating Systems
LVP is compatible with underfloor heating, allowing for efficient heating distribution without risking damage to the planks.
Should You Opt for Vinyl Plank Flooring?
If you’re in search of an artificial floor covering that can convincingly mimic natural materials without their limitations, and at an attractive price point, vinyl plank flooring is a compelling option. While it’s not without its own drawbacks, such as a potentially shorter lifespan compared to natural materials, clients who choose LVP flooring rarely have regrets.
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FAQ
Is Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP) Durable Compared to Natural Materials?
LVP is notably durable, surpassing traditional wood and stone in resistance to scratches, dents, and stains. Its robustness makes it ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic or homes with pets and children, ensuring longevity and resilience.
How Water-Resistant is LVP Flooring?
Vinyl Plank Flooring is highly water-resistant, especially with an SPC core. This makes it perfect for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms, providing an easy-to-clean surface that is ideal for spill-prone environments.
Can I Install LVP Flooring Myself?
Yes, LVP flooring is DIY-friendly, particularly the click fit planks. It can be installed over most existing subfloors without the need for extensive preparation or specialised tools, making it a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts.
How Affordable is Vinyl Plank Flooring Compared to Wood or Stone?
Vinyl Plank Flooring is more affordable than traditional wood or stone flooring options. The price effectiveness of LVP does not compromise its quality or aesthetic appeal, offering an economical yet stylish choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Does LVP Flooring Offer a Variety of Styles and Comfort?
LVP comes in a wide array of styles and textures, offering both wood-look and stone-look options. Its comfortable underfoot feel, often enhanced by integrated underlay, provides a soft and quiet walking experience, suitable for bedrooms and upper floors.