If you’ve settled on LVT as your future flooring, congratulations! You’re well on your way to enjoying a floor that is both stylish and durable. This guide aims to demystify the process of selecting the ideal LVT flooring for your specific needs, irrespective of whether you’ve chosen to purchase from Wood and Beyond or any other retailer. Whether your project is residential or commercial, following the subsequent steps will assure you make a well-informed choice. Let’s delve into the details.
Step 1: Decide On Style
LVT is offered in three distinct styles: tile, plank, and parquet. Although these styles share the same basic construction, which we provide a detailed overview here, their primary distinction lies in the shape and aesthetics of the floorboards. For instance, LVT tiles are crafted to mimic the look of ceramic, marble, or stone tiles, usually ranging from 300mm to 310mm in width and around 610mm in length. Plank LVT aims to replicate natural wood flooring, generally falling within 178mm to 182mm in width and around 1220mm in length. Lastly, the parquet style, available in either herringbone or chevron patterns, features a unique zig-zag design and comes in at 120mm to 127mm wide and 600mm to 630mm long. As for pricing, tile and plank styles are often similarly priced, whereas herringbone and chevron command a premium.
Step 2: Decide On Core Type
At the heart of any LVT flooring is its core, made from one of four materials: PVC, WPC, Rigid, or SPC. Each core type boasts unique characteristics. However, Rigid Core and SPC are considered the most advanced, thus attracting a higher price tag. These cores excel in robustness and are compatible with underfloor heating systems and moisture-prone environments. For installations in more general settings, the economical options of PVC and WPC will serve you adequately.
Step 3: Decide On Fitting Method
LVT flooring is available in three fitting methods: click fit, loose lay, and stick fit. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Click fit LVT is pricier but is practically indispensable for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. The snug fit ensures that water and humidity are prevented from penetrating to the backing layer. Loose lay and stick-down methods, though cheaper, lack this level of moisture resistance and are best suited for other environments.
Step 4: Decide On The Wear Layer
LVT’s durability stems from its wear layer—a clear PVC coating designed to safeguard the design layer against the rigours of everyday use. This wear layer varies in thickness, typically ranging from 0.3mm to 0.7mm. Choose wisely to balance cost with the demands of your setting. For example, the 0.7mm wear layer is robust enough for high-traffic commercial spaces, while the 0.3mm layer suffices for most residential applications.
Step 5: Decide On Thickness
LVT flooring is available in thicknesses ranging from 4mm to 8mm. A more substantial material density, naturally, equates to a higher cost. Thicker flooring provides a more luxurious underfoot experience and better accommodates subfloor imperfections. However, the thickness of the wear layer is the true gauge of quality, as opposed to the overall thickness of the plank or tile.
Step 6: Decide With or Without Underlay
The addition of an underlay can significantly improve your flooring experience, particularly with Rigid or SPC cores. Many retailers now offer LVT with built-in underlays, contributing to a slightly higher price but adding substantial benefits such as improved comfort, sound insulation, and subfloor levelling. It is highly advisable to opt for this add-on.
Concluding Thoughts
So there you have it—a comprehensive guide to securing the best LVT flooring tailored to your specific requirements. A top-tier choice might be a herringbone style with an SPC core, installed via the click-fit method, with an 8mm board and a 0.7mm wear layer, topped off with integrated underlay. On the other hand, if you’re eyeing a mid-range option, a plank or tile style with a Rigid or SPC core, installed either by click-fit or stick-fit on a 5mm or 6mm board with a 0.5mm wear layer, could be your best bet. For a budget-friendly, entry-level option, a 4mm thick plank or tile with a PVC or WPC core, installed via loose lay or stick fit, could serve you well.
By following this guide, you’ll not only make a well-informed decision but also avoid unnecessary expenditures. Happy flooring!
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FAQ
What are the different styles of LVT flooring available?
LVT flooring comes in three primary styles: tile, plank, and parquet. While they all have similar construction methods, they differ in terms of design aesthetics and shape. Tile-style LVT mimics materials like marble or ceramic tiles. Plank-style resembles natural wood flooring, and parquet comes in unique zig-zag patterns like herringbone and chevron.
What types of core materials are used in LVT flooring?
The core of LVT flooring is made from one of four materials: PVC, WPC, Rigid, or SPC. Rigid Core and SPC are generally more advanced and more expensive but are best suited for areas with moisture or underfloor heating. For more general applications, PVC and WPC are cost-effective options.
What are the fitting methods for installing LVT flooring?
Three common fitting methods are used for LVT flooring: click fit, loose lay, and stick fit. Click fit is usually more expensive but provides a tighter seal against moisture, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Loose lay and stick-down methods are cheaper but not recommended for areas exposed to moisture.
How does the wear layer contribute to LVT flooring durability?
The wear layer is a clear PVC coating applied over the design layer of LVT flooring. It comes in different thicknesses (from 0.3mm to 0.7mm) and plays a crucial role in protecting the floor from everyday wear. The thicker the wear layer, the more durable the flooring will be, especially in high-traffic or commercial areas.
Is it advisable to opt for LVT flooring with built-in underlay?
Including an underlay with your LVT flooring can improve comfort, sound insulation, and subfloor levelling. Although it adds to the overall cost, many retailers offer LVT options with integrated underlays, especially with Rigid or SPC cores, and it is generally recommended to go for this option.
