LVT (or Luxury Vinyl Plank) is a durable flooring option with printed designs that mimic stone, tile and wood. Unlike hardwood, it doesn’t absorb moisture and is less prone to damage and discoloration.
It’s also eco-friendly as it does not contain phthalates and uses less energy to produce than natural products. It is also scuff-resistant and can be recycled.
1. It’s Affordable
When you choose vinyl flooring for your living room, you’re choosing a material that looks like hardwood without the higher price tag. It’s also a great option for those on a budget because it’s easy to install, especially when using vinyl plank or luxury tile.
Advances in printing technology have made it possible for these materials to mimic the appearance of a wide range of wood species with remarkable accuracy. This means that you’ll have the opportunity to choose a material that closely matches your own personal style.
In addition to its attractive appearance, wood look vinyl is also pet-friendly and water-resistant. Vacuuming, sweeping and damp mopping are typically enough to keep it clean and looking great for 8-20 years or more, depending on the initial quality you select.
2. It’s Durable
Vinyl is a man-made material that comes in a huge variety of styles and textures that mimic the look of natural wood, stone and tile floors. It’s also super durable–when cared for properly. This means putting mats or rugs in heavily trafficked areas and using coasters or pads on furniture feet. It’s also resistant to moisture penetration, discoloration and warping.
PRO: Vinyl can be printed to mimic virtually any wood species, with some even including a distressed or hand-scraped look. It’s a very versatile and attractive option for budget-minded consumers.
CON: While it’s less environmentally harmful than hardwood, vinyl can still off-gas VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air when first installed. It may also release chlorine gas or phthalate-related toxins, and some old vinyl contains asbestos.
3. It’s Easy to Maintain
Vinyl is not the longest-lasting, best-feeling or most eco-friendly flooring on the market, but it is an affordable option that holds up well to moisture and heavy foot traffic. It is also easy to maintain, particularly if you follow some basic rules.
Regular vacuuming, sweeping and damp mopping with mild cleaners should be sufficient to keep your vinyl floors looking new. You should avoid using harsh or abrasive cleansers and waxes, however, as they can leave a dull film on the transparent wear layer of your vinyl floor planks.
A good rule of thumb is to use a solution of one part water to one part apple cider vinegar for everyday cleaning. This can remove many stains without leaving a residue, and you can use it as an all-purpose cleaner for your entire home.
4. It’s Versatile
With today’s innovative vinyl flooring, you can get the look of real wood floors without maxing out your budget. Today’s waterproof vinyl plank floors come with textured finishes, sound-minimizing cores and scuff-resistant designs to withstand high-traffic areas and lively households.
These floors are also strong but soft underfoot, maintaining a comfortable temperature. They also help to reduce noise and offer a more energy-efficient floor.
These floors are also easy to clean and resistant to scratches, dents and spills. Plus, they can withstand heavy furniture, like sofas and love seats. On average, vinyl wood floors add resale value to a home. However, this depends on the brand, specific product and style you choose. It is important to keep in mind that vinyl does off-gas Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Fortunately, these are minimal compared to solid hardwood floors.
5. It’s Eco-Friendly
The surface layer of vinyl planks and laminate floors is actually a printed image. They are also made of plastic, and unless they have a thick enough wear layer and warranty, their adhesives can emit VOCs after installation.
These volatile organic compounds aren’t good for your home or the environment, so you want to find the right type of flooring that does not release these materials. You can look for GREENGUARD certification on your floors.
Real hardwoods are a great choice for eco-friendly living. They require less maintenance than other types of flooring, which results in reduced waste and a lower carbon footprint. Plus, they increase the value of your home. This type of flooring is durable and can stand up to spills, pooled water, and humidity. This makes it a perfect choice for mudrooms and laundry rooms.
For all your hardwood flooring expertise, visit us at 311 Steeles Ave. +1 (833) 824 9655.
