The growing popularity of luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank (LVT/LVP) flooring shows no sign of slowing down. As with any “hot” trend, established suppliers and new entrants have rushed in to capitalize on the booming business. LVT/LVP options have grown exponentially in the last few years. So many luxury vinyl products and different manufacturers mean contractors and buyers alike must choose carefully and make sure to follow specific instructions. Floor preparation is a large part of LVT/LVP installation and more critical than ever. In fact, floor prep can take greater than 70% of an installer’s time on a project. All LVT/LVP flooring shares the need for the substrate to be perfectly flat to perform properly. While every step of the LVT/LVP project is important, proper floor preparation can help avoid problems, save time and money, and ensure owners are satisfied with their floors.
The first step is to choose the right LVT/LVP product for the installation. Many of the LVT/LVP products on the market deliver the advantages that have made the category so successful. Owners can choose designs that look like high quality natural wood, marble or stone. Advances in printing techniques have led to LVT/LVP with intricate graphic patterns that create endless possibilities for designers and owners. Installed floors are resistant to stains, water and scuffs or scratches. At affordable prices for high quality products, LVT/LVP flooring is a great alternative to more expensive natural materials. However, buyers and contractors need to make sure they choose luxury vinyl that comes from a known supplier. With more than 80% of LVT/LVP being imported from countries with less stringent manufacturing standards than the U.S., a warranty from a reputable manufacturer protects all parties involved. Another consideration in choosing the floor is the specific requirements of the product. The fit of the specific LVT/LVP for each job must be evaluated, since each product has different installation requirements and instructions. The contractor must be sure to follow the manufacturer’s exact directions to avoid problems.