A waterproof* floor solution, great in the bathroom
What is LVT flooring?
LVT stands for luxury vinyl tile, and is designed to replicate hard surface flooring materials such as stone or wood, yet provide many more practical benefits. Available in both plank and tile formats, LVT uses a realistic photographic print film and a clear vinyl layer that opens up a wide variety of design concepts. The finished floor can be almost identical to the timber of stone it is designed to mimic and even a trained eye can have problems telling the difference. Feel, however, is miles away from timber of stone with the LVT floor being much softer to touch.
Is LVT flooring a good option?
The versatility of finish makes LVT a popular choice and the ease of installation helps to keep down costs when compared to tiles, stone and timber. An LVT floor can be glued down or left to "float" on the sub floor without any adhesive. This minimises any floor preparation work, although the sub floor does need to be level, reasonably smooth and stable, ie not likely to crack. The installation ease and the actual material cost combine to make LVT a more affordable alternative to stone, solid timber and many tiled floors.
The waterproof nature of LVT makes it a good choice for bathrooms and kitchens. The actual tiles will not be damaged by water, but it is possible that a big spill could penetrate the joints, so wipe up any spills and damp spots. It is also reasonably resistant to wear and will not chip, although be careful with abrasion and heavy objects as surfaces can scratch and dent.
The softer surface of LVT floors improves comfort underfoot, will feel warmer than stone or tile and will reduce noise levels. Slip resistance is also good with many LVTs although not all (check the "r" value for slip resistance where r9 is reasonable and r10 or above is pretty good) , important in wet areas.
The typical lifespan of an LVT floor will be around 15 to 20 years, but this can be affected by the quality and thickness of the material, the installation and most noticeably the maintenance and cleaning regime.
Any downsides to LVT flooring?
Although a good product for bathroom floors, LVT floors are NOT suitable for wet floor shower areas as they cannot be installed to follow the fall required for shower drainage.
For domestic use problems are rare, but LVT floors are not as durable as some other options and can be damaged by sharp objects and abrasion. Damage can be difficult to repair, and replacement of individual tiles or planks can prove expensive.
The colour and pattern of LVT can fade through time with exposure to direct sunlight, especially prone where there are large and full height windows.
The composition is largely Pvc which is not particularly an environmentally sound product and the finished LVT material is not biodegradable, but then all vinyl floor will fall into thgis category.
How does LVT flooring compare with other options?
I comparison with ceramic tiles, porcelain or stone flooring, the LVT offers a simple installation process, which in turn will mean a lower fitting cost. While LVT floors can be glued down, this is not a requirement and the floor can "float" on the sub-floor if preferred. Probably the great majority of LVTs are layed as floating floors. While ceramics, porcelain and stone will last a lifetime, the LVT will eventually wear and also can fade through time in direct sunlight.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles, and in fact glass tiles, can be used on a wetroom floor, provided the correct adhesives and grouts are selected, whereas LVT is not suitable. Although the actual LVT tiles or planks resist water damage, the joints are not waterproof. Wipe up any spills and you won't have a problem.
Comparing to a laminate, engineered wood or solid wood floor, the LVT is much more resistant to water and damp and so makes a great choice for bathrooms. Wear and tear on LVT is reasonable, but unlike laminates and engineered or solid woods it is much harder to repair if there is a problem.
LVT is unlikely to chip, unlike the other options above, but a hard impact can certainly dent the surface.
Other vinyl tile options like SPC and WPC floors are similar to LVT in many ways, but LVT is a softer surface and more flexible having the advantage of a softer feel underfoot, but the stiffer construction of an SPC can benefit when layed on a less than perfect subfloor, and the harder SPC can enjoy a longer lifespan, although this is dependent on correct maintenance and cleaning.
Care and maintenance
Its best to vacuum (No beater bars) or sweep with a soft brush. Wet moping is not recommended as although the material itself will not degrade water can still penetrate the joints and with continued water penetration the sub floor below the LVT can attract mould. Stubborn stains can be removed with a damp cloth and if necessary a mild detergent.
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, household "multi purpose" cleaners are not recommended, and totally avoid bleach or products containing chlorine or ammonia.
Avoid bleach or products containing chlorine or ammonia
Steam mops are not recommended.
* Waterproof can be interpreted in many ways. The meaning here is than the actual LVT tiles or planks will not be damaged by water, but it is important to understand that water can penetrate the joints, Therefore it is important to quickly wipe up any spills, and in the bathroom do not let water drops or puddles lay on the floor, wipe them up as soon as possible. With common sense and reasonably care you will not have issues.
