Vinyl plank flooring comes in different styles, so it might be confusing when you're shopping for new flooring. There are two main styles of vinyl planks: standard and luxury. The different types are made in different ways and some have their own installation methods. Here's a look at the main types of vinyl plank floors and how they're installed.
Standard Vinyl Plank Flooring
Standard vinyl floors have been around for a long time. Traditionally, they were made in tiles or sheet vinyl. Vinyl planks have become more popular in recent years, but the standard vinyl planks share similarities with sheets and tiles. For instance, standard vinyl is thinner than luxury vinyl. Because it's thin and doesn't have a padded backing, it makes for a harder floor too.
Standard vinyl is easier for dogs and kids to gouge and scratch. It generally doesn't last as long as luxury vinyl, but it's often less expensive. However, standard vinyl planks have some good sides too. They're waterproof, and you can buy them made from nontoxic PVC that's phthalate free.
Standard Vinyl Plank Installation
Standard vinyl planks usually adhere directly to the floor. They are often glued to the subfloor or concrete slab. This holds them in place securely and makes the installation fairly easy. However, if you buy peel-and-stick planks, the installation will be even easier since all you have to do is peel off the backing and press the plank to the floor.
Luxury Vinyl Flooring Planks
LVP flooring is popular because it looks so much like real wood. It's also more comfortable underfoot since it is thick and you can buy planks with padding on the back. Luxury vinyl is usually waterproof and durable. It's a good choice in flooring if you have kids and pets.
Luxury vinyl costs more than standard vinyl but less than real hardwood. It's considered premium flooring that could add to the value of your home and entice buyers when you're ready to sell. You can buy brands of LVP flooring that are waterproof and phthalate and formaldehyde free.
Luxury Vinyl Plank Installation
There are a few ways to install luxury vinyl planks. Some are more DIY friendly than others. You can glue the planks to the floor or you might want to buy planks that lay flat on the floor without the need for glue. These are loose-lay planks and the easiest type of plank flooring to install. However, if kids run and play on the floor, you may need to hold them in place with double-sided carpet tape.
Luxury vinyl planks can float over an old floor. This is possible with interlocking planks. These planks click together to hold the floor in place rather than attach to the floor.
For more info about vinyl plank flooring, contact a local company.
