Free Unbiased Flooring Guide For Homeowners
Carpet | Vinyl Plank | Hardwood | Ceramic | Best Dealers
(Information Provided by Consumer Advocate - No Flooring Sales)
LVP Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl Plank Flooring Types and Styles
Homeowners
have always had to make a choice between cheap soft sheet-vinyl flooring and
expensive solid vinyl sheet flooring. In years past, simulated wood grain
flooring did not look very real and didn't stand the test of time.
Today, there are many realistic looking waterproof vinyl products now available to homeowners. LVT is a square vinyl tile or LVP is random length and width vinyl planks that are realistic, easy to install, very durable and reasonably priced.
Choose from parquet, marble or stone, decorative tile, shiplap and even concrete. Waterproof Vinyl flooring products have numerous good qualities and only few negatives. Which vinyl flooring is right for you? Here is some important information you can use to help make wise and informed choices.
Waterproof vinyl planks are an excellent choice because they are easy to clean and maintain. Waterproof vinyl flooring is durable, easy to clean, and low maintenance. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors and styles. You can choose between solid color options, such as black, white, gray, brown, and tan; or patterned options, such as chevron, herringbone, brick, and wood grain.
Vinyl planks are an affordable way to add a new look to your home without breaking the bank. If you're looking for an easy way to add some style to your home without spending a lot of money, then waterproof vinyl plank floors might be just what you're looking for. These floors are made with a special material that makes them water resistant, so you won't have to worry about getting wet when you walk through your house. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, making them perfect for any room in your home.
Why should I choose waterproof vinyl planks?
They Last Longer Than Traditional Flooring. If you’re looking for a durable floor option that will last longer than traditional options, waterproof vinyl plank floors are a good choice. These floors are made with a special type of plastic called PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This material is resistant to water, heat, and chemicals. It also has a high resistance to scratches, stains, and wear.
Vinyl Floor Construction
Top Wear Layer
-
The top layer is a clear waterproof coating that helps protect the surface against abrasion, scratches, dents, stains and fading. Some wear layers are thicker and more durable than others, ranging from 10 to 20 mils.
A Decorative Image
-
Next is a digital image that gives each plank the appearance of natural hardwoods. Many are deeply embossed to provide texture and depth to enhance beauty.
-
Choose from parquet, marble or stone, decorative tile, shiplap and even concrete. Your design choices are virtually limitless.
Solid Vinyl Core
-
A solid vinyl core provides stability, strength and flexibility.
Backing
-
This base layer is either waterproof or water resistant and also provides cushioning underfoot.
Top LVP Benefits
-
Very Affordable
-
Beautiful, Realistic
-
Easy to Install
-
Many Colors and Designs
-
Durable and Long Lasting
-
Easy to Maintain and Repair
-
Scratch Resistant
-
Moisture Resistant or Waterproof
LVP Negatives
-
Hard to Remove when glued down
-
Fading in Direct Sunlight
LVP Cost vs. Longevity
$2.00 to $3.50 Per Sq. Ft:
LVP in this price range is usually glue-down flooring. Good-quality LVP is considered water resistant. Longevity of 7-12 years is common with a wear layer of 10 to 16 mils.
$3.50 to $6.00 Per Sq. Ft:
In this cost range, you’ll find thicker material and better wear layers. Longevity of 12-20 years is common with a wear layer of 16 to 20 mils.
Vinyl Floor Installation
There are several ways to install LVP flooring. The 3 most common methods are: glue-down, click-together and floating.
-
Glue-Down holds the flooring in place securely.
-
Click-Together eliminates the need to glue the planks to the floor.
-
A Floating Floor is secured only by gravity and base boards.
The installation method you choose depends on several key factors and you should discuss this matter in depth with a reputable LVP flooring dealer. If you choose to do the install yourself, be sure to carefully follow installation instructions from the manufacturer.
Vinyl Plank - Length and Width
The
width of LVP flooring varies with each manufacturer and basically range between
6″ and 12″. Typical plank lengths
range from 36 to 48 inches.
Since LVP is a relatively thin product with varying lengths and widths, floor preparation is paramount. Floor preparation can be very costly especially if your old flooring has to be removed. If you have a wood subfloor any imperfections will need to be filled and sanded before the new LVP can be installed.
Concrete slabs must smooth and be free of old glue residue. Every crack must be filled and leveled as any imperfection will telegraph up to the new LVP floor. All concrete or wood sub-flooring must be clean and dry before installing new LVP.
If your basement or concrete slab has moisture problems of any sort, you should consult with a professional before you install any new flooring. Mold and mildew is a serious issue and can be a heath hazard. Concrete Sealing Companies located near you can be found by doing a simple Google search.
Vinyl Flooring Care and Maintenance
Vinyl
flooring is easy to take care of. This is another reason why LVP and LVT
flooring is so popular. Use
a damp mop or cloth to wipe up spills. Sweep or vacuum regularly (suction
only, no beater
bar) to remove dirt and debris.
Use mild soap or a mild cleaning solution because harsh chemicals can damage LVP flooring. You can use a vinegar and water solution to clean LVP flooring, simply mix one part water with one part white vinegar and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Trusted LVP Flooring Dealers
Not all vinyl flooring products are created equal. There are many levels of quality to choose from. Some are water-proof, some are water-resistant. Prices for LVP vary greatly and you need to determine what grade is right for your application.
Rather than giving you a basic product synopsis on this website, it would be better if you visit a reputable LVP flooring dealer near you and consider all the options in person. That way you can get all the answers you need that apply to your unique situation. No website can provide you with all the product information you require.
Quality Vinyl Flooring Manufacturers
There are many colors, styles and wood grain options available from the best LVP manufacturers including;
-
Forbo
-
Konecto
-
Armstrong
-
Shaw
-
Mannington
You can't go wrong with this investment! Vinyl plank flooring is the perfect solution to your flooring needs. It's easy to install, water resistant and affordable so you can help protect your home from moisture damage. With a variety of colors, styles and types to choose from, you can find exactly what you're looking for. Get a lifetime warranty and be worry-free for years to come!
Vinyl flooring is a great way to get a new look in your house without spending too much. Browse our website for a whole range of products and find one that suits your needs. My recommended flooring stores have waterproof vinyl plank flooring in stock. Vinyl plank flooring is easy-to-install and water resistant. Check it out today!
Regardless of the brand you select, it is important that you buy from a reputable flooring dealer. That way you are assured to get a quality product along with the best customer service and guaranteed installation. If you ever have a problem or complaint, it's nice to know your local flooring dealer will do whatever it takes to make sure all your concerns are addressed. Is there a Recommended LVP Flooring Dealer near me?
Learn More