26 Nov What is LVT?
LVT, or Luxury Vinyl Tiling, is designed to replicate traditional surface flooring materials such as stone or wood, yet provide many more practical benefits. LVT is a relatively new product which is currently one of the fastest growing product lines within the flooring market.
LVT flooring should be distinguished from other older types of vinyl flooring. ‘Sheet vinyl’ and linoleum typically come in rolls and are glued to the floor, whereas LVT flooring comes in easy-to-fit tiles or planks which can either be installed ‘floating’ (without glue) or glued down.
Make no mistake, LVT is a far cry from the old-fashioned plasticky vinyl floors you might remember from your grandmother’s house. Modern technology has made LVT a stylish and durable alternative to laminate and even hardwood flooring.
How is LVT made?
LVT is made from multiple layers of PVC vinyl, reinforced with special compounds to make it harder. The top layer is a transparent, protective coating to reduce scratches and marks. The back layer is a moisture-resistant layer to prevent the tiles from warping. The design layer will give the product its visual look based on the chosen texture and style. There are also various supporting layers to help resist indentations and enhance the durability and lifespan of the product.
The layers of PVC vinyl are compressed with a series of heated rollers to squeeze the layers into one continuous sheet. By adjusting the settings on the rollers, the width and thickness of the sheet can be controlled with accuracy and consistency.
The sheet is now dried with heat and air to toughen it. When this is done, engraved rollers apply a selected textured design to give the LVT its final finish. Manufacturers may opt to mimic the textures of stone or wood for added realism.
Benefits of LVT
The rapidly increasing popularity of LVT is easy to understand when we look at all its benefits.
- Comfort: LVT has a softer surface than traditional materials such as wood or stone. This means it’s much more comfortable underfoot.
- Durability: LVT is much more durable than wood or stone. Its built-in scratch-resistant layer and stain-guarding technology ensures it can easily withstand daily wear and tear. The surface will not dent or scratch as easily as many natural wood or stone flooring options.
- Water resistance: LVT is naturally waterproof and is an excellent choice for floor areas which may be exposed to water.
- Warmth: LVT is naturally warmer than wood or stone. LVT stays at a regulated temperature to ensure comfort all year round. If extra warmth is required, LVT is suitable for use with an underfloor heating system, as the material is thin enough to allow efficient heat transfer.
- Easy to clean: LVT is very low maintenance. All it needs to keep fresh and clean is a regular sweep to remove any dust or dirt, and an occasional mop to restore its natural sheen.
- Versatility: LVT is a high performance surface that excels in both commercial and domestic environments. It’s perfect for areas with high footfall due to its durable, hard-wearing surface. It’s also a great choice for wet areas or areas requiring heat or sound insulation. LVT can be installed in office areas, living areas, the kitchen, the bathroom, and even on the stairs.
Want to know more about LVT and how it could work for you? Talk to our Easifit Flooring team who will be delighted to advise you and offer you a free, no-obligation quote. Find us on 0800 096 1171 or drop us a line at .
