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Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) planks are a popular flooring option that replicates the look and feel of natural materials like wood or stone but at a more affordable price. Combining durability with style, LVT planks have become a go-to choice for homeowners and businesses alike. But what exactly are LVT planks, and why are they worth considering?
Construction and Design
LVT planks are composed of several layers, each designed to provide strength, stability, and realism. Here’s a breakdown of the typical layers found in LVT planks:
Wear Layer: The top layer is a clear coating that protects the surface from scratches, scuffs, and stains, ensuring the flooring remains looking new for longer.
Design Layer: Beneath the wear layer is the design or decorative layer, which is a high-quality printed image of wood or stone that provides the realistic appearance of natural materials.
Core Layer: The core gives the LVT its structure and stability, often made from PVC for flexibility and durability.
Backing Layer: This layer adds further stability and is often water-resistant, making LVT planks a great choice for areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
How is LVT Made?
In the United Kingdom, LVT is typically produced on continuous lamination equipment, such as a rotocure machine. This means it is made in large continuous runs, cut into smaller sections, called slabs, and then cut into the finished product format, such as tile or plank.
Every manufacturer has their own variation or configuration of the equipment. This continuous method allows for temperature and pressure control resulting in higher quality and yields. It also typically has energy and labor efficiencies compared to other methods.
Another popular method of manufacturing is using large presses to laminate the layers, such as a static press. This Luxury Vinyl Tile manufacturing method is most commonly found outside the US. The press methodology allows for more flexibility than continuous lamination, but is much more labor intensive as slab pieces are put together manually using pre-cut individual layers and emboss plates, then loaded into the press with multiple layers stacked on top of one another.
Due to the stacking of material within the static press and heating and cooling within the same chamber, production can also have lower quality yields and requires large amounts of energy to heat and cool the equipment. The material has pressure applied to the top and bottom of the press and it is heated and cooled within the same chamber to achieve lamination.
How To Specify LVT
With so many options for LVT products in the market today, it is important to consider all variables before making your final selection when designing your space. Visuals, size offerings, edge treatments, surface texture (embossing), and customization options vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. At Floorington Commercial, we have developed an easy guide that walks you through all the considerations when putting together your LVT specification.
Depending on the space you are designing, it’s important to choose the correct LVT product. Aesthetics are very important, but equally important is choosing a Luxury Vinyl Tile product that is well constructed, will enhance the performance of the floor and will keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
Benefits of LVT Planks
Realistic Aesthetic: With advanced printing technology, LVT planks closely mimic natural wood or stone, allowing you to achieve the same stylish appearance without the maintenance demands.
Durability: The wear layer offers exceptional protection from everyday wear and tear. LVT is also water-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or rooms prone to spills.
Easy Installation: LVT planks are designed to be easily installed, either as a glue-down option or through a click-lock system. Many homeowners opt for LVT due to its user-friendly installation process, which can even be a DIY project.
Comfort: Unlike natural wood or stone, LVT planks offer a softer, warmer underfoot feel. Some products even come with acoustic backing for noise reduction, making them a perfect choice for families or apartment living.
Low Maintenance: LVT planks require minimal upkeep—just regular sweeping and occasional mopping to keep them looking great.
Ideal Applications
LVT planks are versatile and can be installed in nearly any room of the house. They are particularly popular in:
Kitchens and Bathrooms: The water-resistant nature of LVT makes it perfect for moisture-prone areas.
Living Rooms: Offering the warmth and appearance of hardwood without the cost or maintenance.
Basements: LVT’s resistance to moisture is also ideal for below-grade installations like basements.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a flooring option that provides the beauty of natural wood or stone without the drawbacks, LVT planks are a fantastic solution. Offering durability, style, and ease of installation, they fit seamlessly into any home or commercial setting. Whether you’re renovating a single room or upgrading your entire home, LVT planks provide a cost-effective and stylish flooring solution that lasts.
Visit us at Cable Street, Opposite Red Lion Pub, Wolverhampton, WV2 2HX to explore our extensive range of Porcelain tiles options and find the perfect match for your project!