Pros & Cons of Luxury Vinyl Flooring
If you have been looking into floors for your home, you have probably heard of luxury vinyl plank also known as LVP flooring as a fantastic new option. So, let’s dive into all things Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring in Australia and explore its pros and cons.
What is LVP Flooring?
Before diving into the pros and cons of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, let’s clarify what it actually is.
Many people initially associate Luxury Vinyl flooring with traditional sheet or roll vinyl, but today’s vinyl options are highly engineered and robust products. LVP has become a popular alternative to solid and engineered wood flooring, thanks to its realistic wood-like appearance and the stone-like look of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). Its versatility allows for installation in nearly any space, whether residential or commercial. Composed of multiple layers, LVP is designed to provide a resilient and low-maintenance flooring solution.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring vs Standard Vinyl Flooring
Regular vinyl flooring is an affordable and a thinner option with full glue-down installation, lasting 10 to 15 years. In contrast, luxury vinyl offers a floating installation method, has a lifespan of over 25 years, and is suitable for high-end environments.
Standard Vinyl: Available in flexible sheets or tiles, standard vinyl features a thin felt or fiberglass backing bonded to solid vinyl. While it is flexible and relatively thin, it is more prone to gouging and tearing and can feel harder underfoot.
Luxury Vinyl: Installed with click-lock edges like laminate, luxury vinyl comes in multi-ply planks or tiles and includes six to eight layers for durability and comfort. Its thicker construction provides a semi-rigid feel, making it more pleasant to walk on.
Pros of Luxury Vinyl Flooring
These are great options, but nobody, and no flooring is perfect. Let’s look at the ups and downs of these vinyl floor types, the “pros and cons” if you will
- Flexible: Luxury vinyl flooring is designed to accommodate a variety of spaces and styles. It can be easily cut and shaped to fit unique layouts, making it a versatile option for any room in your home.
- Easy to Install: A worry-free and easy installation is one of the main selling points of vinyl composite flooring, many products come with a click-lock design, allowing homeowners to install the flooring without the need for professional help, saving both time and money.
- Durable: With its wear layer it ensures LVP is more durable, scuff, dent and scratch resistant and can take the traffic of active households, and commercial areas. It is built to withstand the rigors of daily life. It’s resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas and rooms prone to spills.
- Attractive: LVP has near-infinite options with its wide range of colours, patterns and textures, luxury vinyl can mimic the look of natural materials like wood and stone. This aesthetic appeal allows homeowners to achieve the desired look without the high maintenance associated with real wood and titles.
- Comfortable: Luxury vinyl flooring provides a softer underfoot feel compared to harder surfaces like tile or hardwood. It can also help with temperature regulation, making it comfortable to walk on, even in colder months. Additionally, many options feature a padded backing, enhancing comfort further.
Cons of Luxury Vinyl Flooring
- Hard to Remove: It can be challenging to remove once it’s installed. The adhesive used in many luxury vinyl products can bond strongly to the subfloor, making the removal process labour-intensive.
- Might Not Do Well Under the Sunlight: Luxury vinyl flooring provides a softer underfoot feel compared to harder surfaces like tile or hardwood. It can also help with temperature regulation, making it comfortable to walk on, even in colder months. Additionally, many options feature a padded backing, enhancing comfort further.
How to Install and Remove LVP Flooring
- Installation of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring: Vinyl flooring can be easy to install yourself. Most vinyl planks and tiles can be laid as a floating floor, locking together, while others may require glue or a peel-and-stick method. Be sure to follow any installation instructions included with your purchased vinyl flooring.
- Removing Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring: To remove LVP flooring, clear the area and pry off the baseboard to access the edges. For glued-down planks, cut around the edges and lift them with a knife. Clean any adhesive residue from the subfloor and dispose of the old flooring as per local guidelines.
How to Clean and Maintain LVP Flooring
As tough as vinyl plank flooring is, it still needs regular cleaning to live its full lifespan, and lucky for you it’s designed for easy maintenance, here’s what to do:
Vacuum or dry-mop the floor to remove surface dirt/dust- tiny scratches caused by all kinds of debris, dust and dirt that collect on your floors can dull the appearance of your floor planking. We recommend vacuuming or dry mopping first.
Scrub to remove stains- whether your stain is fresh or stubbornly old, a soft nylon brush will help loosen it and remove it without scratching your floor.
Wet-mop to remove grime- dampen your mop and mop your vinyl plank flooring in the direction of the planks.
The best cleaner for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a pH-neutral formula designed specifically for vinyl floors. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, as they can damage the surface. Pureflor is an excellent choice, effectively breaking down grease, oil, and food waste while eliminating odours. It’s non-corrosive and safe for all water-safe surfaces, including Luxury Vinyl Flooring.
How Much Does LVP Flooring Cost
Luxury vinyl wood plank flooring offers an affordable alternative to hardwood, featuring improved authenticity due to advanced manufacturing techniques. It is durable, easy to install, and simple to maintain.
When looking at options of LVP Flooring in Australia, the average cost of LVP ranges from $25 to $79 per square meter, influenced by quality, brand, and installation method.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I paint luxury vinyl flooring?
Yes, this can be an option. While LVP flooring offers a wide range of options, some may desire a more unique touch or wish to refresh their existing floors without undergoing a complete replacement.
2. Can I put LVP flooring over tile?
Yes, you can install luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring over tiles. Just ensure the tile is in good condition, clean and level. Any grout line or uneven areas should be filled or leveled to prevent issues with the LVP.
3. Can I install luxury vinyl flooring over laminate?
Yes, LVP can be installed over laminate flooring, provided the laminate is in good shape and stable. Make sure to check for any height differences and address any unevenness before installation.
4. Can I steam mop luxury vinyl flooring?
No, it’s not recommended to steam mop LVP. The heat and moisture from steam mops can damage the vinyl and might cause it to warp or lift. Stick to damp mopping with a microfiber cloth/mop for cleaning.
5. What is the best cleaner for luxury vinyl flooring?
The best cleaner for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a pH-neutral formula designed specifically for vinyl floors. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, as they can damage the surface. Pureflor is an excellent choice, effectively breaking down grease, oil, and food waste while eliminating odours. It’s non-corrosive and safe for all water-safe surfaces, including Luxury Vinyl Flooring.
6. Can I use vinegar on luxury vinyl flooring?
Yes, you can use vinegar on LVP, but it is important to dilute it properly. Avoid using undiluted vinegar, as it can be too acidic and may harm the finish over time. Always test in small, inconspicuous areas first.
7. Can I use luxury vinyl flooring in the bathroom?
Yes, LVP can be used in bathrooms. It’s water-resistant, easy to clean and can handle humidity well. Just ensure that the installation is done correctly to prevent any moisture issues.
Read more in this blog.
Conclusion
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of beauty, durability and practicality. Its realistic appearance and easy installation makes it versatile for various settings. While it has some drawbacks, such as potential fading and removal challenges, the benefits outweigh them, making LVP a smart investment for anyone wanting to enhance their space with stylish and resilient flooring.
Visit Polyflor’s website to find out more information about all things LVP.
