What is Luxury Vinyl?

Luxury vinyl has started to take over, but why?  Well, your quick answer is because it is waterproof and affordable.

For those who do not know Luxury Vinyl is a floor product that has the look of hardwood or stone without the price tag.  The two most common types that can be found are the  Tile (LVT), and plank (LVP).

There are 5 main components to the Luxury Vinyl:

1. Overall Thickness
2. Wear Layer
3. Edge Treatment
4. Installation Types​

When we say Overall Thickness, this means LVT/LVP can be anywhere from 2mm to 6mm thick in whole.  The Luxury Vinyl itself is usually 1 mm to  5 mm depending on the style.

Every product has what is called a ‘Wear Layer’.  This is a protective layer overtop of the vinyl, it is stain resistant, water resistant, easy to maintain, and scratch resistant.  This layer is usually made from polyurethane and is .12mm to 1mm thick - It is important to get the right wear layer for your lifestyle.

‘Edge Treatments’ can be squared, this is used with the seamless look or beveled edges for a hardwood imitation.  And rounded edges for the grout-able tiles, that is right, you can grout Luxury Vinyl!

There are a few 'installation methods' that can be used depending on the LVT/LVP.  The most used are your  Loose-lay or glue down, these tiles are sometimes thick enough that they should just lay on the floor but would need to be glued in some places (like the parameter or over bumpy spots, or any that would be in direct sunlight, etc.), or thin enough that they should be glued all over. 

There is the Click product that fits together like a puzzle, this type can have multiple backing options ranging from a foam to cork, the click can be installed over most already installed flooring! (not carpet!)​

So back to our original question: “Why Luxury Vinyl”

Answer: why not!  It almost always is a better price point than actual hardwood or stone, looks like hardwood and stone, is easier to maintain and install, and is 100% water proof and does not support mold growth. 

Luxury Vinyl comes in the same appealing textures as natural products like stone, ceramic and wood, it is super comfortable, pet friendly, eco friendly, reduces noise, doesn’t expand or contract as much with the climate changes -which means less creaking in the house! 

Luxury Vinyl is an amazing product, and there are new designs and production advances happening to keep it affordable and more economically friendly. 

So, come check us out at 716 1st Ave South in Lethbridge for more details, trained staff members, colour selection, ​​and just an amazing experience.