Luxury vinyl flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable, stylish, and cost-effective flooring solution. At Eastside Carpets & Floors, we frequently help customers in Kirkland, WA, and surrounding areas choose between luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Understanding the differences between these two options can help you make the best choice for your home.
What is luxury vinyl plank (LVP)?
Design and appearance
Luxury vinyl plank is designed to mimic the look of natural hardwood flooring. The planks are long and rectangular, similar to traditional wood planks. Thanks to advanced printing technology, LVP can replicate the intricate details and textures of real wood, making it nearly indistinguishable from the real thing.
Durability and construction
LVP is constructed from multiple layers, including a durable wear layer, a high-definition photographic layer, and a rigid or flexible core. This construction makes LVP highly resistant to scratches, dents, and moisture. It’s an ideal choice for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Installation
LVP is designed for easy installation, often featuring a click-lock system that allows the planks to be floated over the subfloor without the need for glue or nails. This makes it a popular choice for DIY projects and quick renovations.
What is luxury vinyl tile (LVT)?
Design and appearance
Luxury vinyl tile is designed to mimic the look of natural stone, ceramic, or porcelain tile. The tiles are square or rectangular, and like LVP, they feature high-definition printing and texturing to replicate the appearance of real tile. LVT can be found in a variety of styles, from classic stone looks to contemporary geometric patterns.
Durability and construction
LVT shares the same multi-layer construction as LVP, with a wear layer, photographic layer, and core. This makes LVT equally durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and moisture. It’s suitable for any area of the home, including high-moisture environments like bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Installation
LVT can be installed using a click-lock system or glued down, depending on the product and your preference. The glue-down method can provide extra stability and is often used in commercial settings. For homeowners, the click-lock system offers the convenience of a floating floor, similar to LVP.
Key differences between LVP and LVT
Appearance and application
The most significant difference between LVP and LVT is their appearance and intended application. LVP is designed to look like hardwood, making it a great choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways where you want the warm, natural look of wood. LVT, on the other hand, is designed to look like stone or tile, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where a tile look is desired.
Shape and size
LVP comes in long, narrow planks, while LVT comes in square or rectangular tiles. This difference in shape can influence the overall look of your flooring and may affect your choice depending on the design aesthetic you’re aiming for.
Conclusion
Choosing between luxury vinyl plank and luxury vinyl tile depends on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and the area where the flooring will be installed. Both options offer durability, water resistance, and a wide range of styles to suit any home.
At Eastside Carpets & Floors, we carry a comprehensive selection of luxury vinyl flooring, including both LVP and LVT, along with carpet, waterproof flooring (WPC), and tile flooring. Our services include residential and commercial installation to ensure your flooring is installed perfectly.
Visit our showroom in Redmond, WA, to explore our extensive selection and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We proudly serve Bellevue, Kirkland, Bothell, Woodinville, Issaquah, WA, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today or visit our website to schedule a consultation. Let Eastside Carpets & Floors help you find the perfect luxury vinyl in Kirkland, WA, to enhance your home.
