What is the difference between luxury vinyl flooring - LVT and classic vinyl?
For a long period of time sheet vinyl flooring was the immediate solution that could withstand moisture, stains and high traffic areas like kitchen bathrooms and entrance halls.
Normally standard vinyl flooring is made of a thin layer of vinyl printed with a design layer covered with a protective coating. The main problem here is that this flooring is susceptible to damage (easy to tear).
Luxury vinyl tiles or LVT is a new material, the primary components include polyvinyl chloride (or vinyl) resins, plasticisers (high molecular weight solvents) pigments and trace stabilisers and a carrier sheet or backing.
The design layer gives the flooring the look of wood, stone or other natural materials.
LVT stardust brown matt 915x15.2x5.5mm
LVT it is an excellent option for residential and commercial spaces due to its durability, moisture resistance and low maintenance. LVT creates a hardwood or ceramic tile effect on a lower budget.
How thick is LVT/ Vinyl?
Standard vinyl thickness is 2-6mm which is less comfortable and less soundproof compared to LVT.
The thickness for LVT varies from 2mm to 8mm. Thicker options offer better insulation and soundproofing.
What is the difference for installation?
The main difference it is the method of installation such as glue down or click-lock. For click-lock installation you’ll have to align the tiles and apply pressure to lock them in place. No glue or adhesive is required.
Vinyl flooring is simple to install, doesn’t require underlay as it comes with a base layer that serves the purpose.
Which one is the most durable in time?
Luxury vinyl tiles LVT usually last for 20-25 years being less prone to scratches and wear.
Vinyl flooring it’s still durable but its thinner structure means it lasts for 10-15 years.
Heat resistance
Both materials are good with moderate heat so you can utilise them with underfloor heating or in rooms that draw a lot of direct sunlight. Just ensure you check what heat the particular flooring can be subject to before purchasing as some vinyl cannot be used in conjunction with electric underfloor heating.
What do you know about click lux?
Click lux is a type of LVT (Luxury Vinyl tile flooring) that uses Stone Polymer Composite (SPC) technology. Click lux feels very comfortable due to its thickness and built-in foam underlay. Also it is extremely durable, waterproof and won’t scratch or stain. It is suitable for both commercial and residential installations, perfect for underfloor heating. It is easy to clean with a soft brush, vacuum or damp cloth.
You can use Click lux tiles in the kitchen or bathroom, with underfloor heating with no worries about moisture or cleaning issues.
What are the costs?
Produced in different shapes of planks or tiles, LVT flooring is one of the fastest growing flooring material on the market. The cost of LVT flooring starts from £10 per metre square and the average price gets to £45 per metre square. LVT flooring prices depend on the kind bought, material required for preparation and labour. You can fit the floor tiles yourself but if you want the task to be done properly and fast is better to use an experienced contractor. If you opt for a mid-end quality LVT you’ll then pay for the surface preparation which gets to £10 per metre square plus £7 for the underlay. In the end you’ll need to add installation cost which is approximately £200 per day.
After you found out the most important aspects regarding vinyl and LVT flooring your choice should come easier, based on your preferences, budget and level of comfort you would like to achieve for your project! Do not hesitate to have a look through our LVT and Click lux collection for more ideas!