Thinking of installing LVT flooring? Using our 15+ years of experience, we’ll help you understand what to expect from LVT, so you can make a confident, informed decision for your home.
This guide will answer questions we get asked often at Top Notch Interiors, like ‘how long does LVT flooring last?’ as well as go into detail on the factors that influence its lifespan. Let’s get started!
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How Long Does Luxury Vinyl Flooring Last on Average?
On average, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years, thanks to its high-quality materials and construction. The layers in luxury vinyl tiles, especially the protective wear layer and the durable core, are designed to resist scratches, dents, and daily wear. This means that even in busy areas of your home, the flooring retains its look and strength for years.
Factors That Affect The Lifespan of LVT Flooring
A lifespan of 10 to 25 years is quite a wide range, so how can you tell where your LVT flooring will land? It comes down to a few key factors, which we’ve outlined below.
- Quality of the LVT: The longevity of your LVT flooring heavily depends on the quality of the product you choose. Long-lasting luxury vinyl flooring is built with best industry practices and quality materials, making it more resistant to wear, scratches, and stains.
- Proper Installation: Proper installation is essential for LVT flooring. When installed by professionals, the flooring is less likely to suffer from gaps, lifting, or uneven wear. The floor being installed correctly also ensures that it adheres properly to the subfloor (in the case of glue-down LVT), preventing issues that could lead to early deterioration.
- Foot Traffic: The amount of foot traffic your LVT flooring experiences will directly impact its lifespan. Areas with high foot traffic, such as hallways or kitchens, may see more wear over time. Choosing a more durable, thicker wear layer can help mitigate this and extend the flooring’s life.
How to Maximise the Lifespan of LVT Flooring
Here’s how to keep your LVT flooring in the best possible condition.
Keep Up with Regular Cleaning
Maintaining your LVT flooring starts with simple, regular cleaning. A quick sweep every day or so helps remove dirt and debris that could scratch the surface. Once a week, use a damp mop and a gentle, LVT-friendly cleaner to give the floor a more thorough clean without risking damage to its finish—avoid using harsh chemicals.
Use Mats and Furniture Pads
Mats act as the first line of defence, reducing the amount of cleaning needed and protecting the floor’s surface. Another option is using furniture pads under the legs of tables, chairs, and sofas, which helps to prevent unsightly dents and scratches, especially when you need to move items around.
Lift, Don’t Drag
Whenever you need to rearrange furniture, lifting rather than dragging it across your LVT flooring is essential. Dragging heavy objects can cause deep scratches in the surface. If lifting isn’t an option, consider using furniture sliders.
Does Vinyl Flooring Last Longer Than Laminate?
When comparing the lifespan of vinyl flooring to laminate, vinyl generally tends to last longer, particularly when it comes to areas with high moisture levels or heavy foot traffic. Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is known for its durability and resilience, often outlasting laminate flooring in demanding environments.
Advantages of Vinyl Flooring
- Water Resistance: Vinyl flooring, especially LVT, is highly resistant to moisture, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
- Durability: Vinyl floor is designed to withstand heavy use, making it suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Comfort: Vinyl has a softer underfoot feel compared to laminate, providing more comfort when standing for long periods.
- Versatility: Available in a wide range of styles and designs, vinyl can mimic the look of wood, stone, or tile, offering great versatility in design.
- Low Maintenance: Vinyl floors are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping.
Disadvantages of Vinyl Flooring
- Environmental Impact: Vinyl is made from synthetic materials, which are not as environmentally friendly as natural products. However, many manufacturers are making strides in producing eco-friendlier vinyl options.
- Potential for Dents: Whilst vinyl is durable, it can be prone to dents from heavy furniture or sharp objects, particularly if the flooring does not have a thick wear layer. Fortunately, using protective pads under furniture can help prevent this issue.
- Difficult to Repair: Unlike laminate, which can sometimes be repaired by replacing only select damaged planks, it can be necessary to replace vinyl flooring completely if it’s damaged.
- Cost: High-quality vinyl flooring can be more expensive upfront compared to some laminate options. Considering its longevity, water resistance, and low maintenance requirements, vinyl often proves to be a cost-effective investment in the long run, however.
How We Extend the Life of Your LVT Flooring
At Top Notch Interiors, we understand that the foundation of long-lasting, beautiful flooring begins with both high-quality materials and proper installation.
Since our establishment in 2006, our family-run business has built a wealth of experience in the industry. We offer a wide range of premium LVT flooring solutions to fit all budgets and our seasoned team ensures that every installation is handled with the care and precision that comes from years of experience, ensuring that you’re not only getting the best product but also the best service.
LVT flooring, set up for success from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered your questions on luxury vinyl tiles below.
What is vinyl flooring made of?
Vinyl flooring is primarily made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a type of plastic. This material is layered to create a durable and flexible flooring option. The top layer is often a protective wear layer, followed by a printed design layer that mimics the look of wood, stone, or tile. Beneath that, there’s a core layer for stability, and sometimes a backing layer for added comfort and insulation.
Does LVT flooring scratch easily?
LVT flooring is designed to be highly resistant to scratches, thanks to its protective wear layer. However, like any flooring, it can still be scratched if exposed to sharp objects or heavy, dragging furniture.
What does LVT flooring look like?
LVT flooring is versatile in appearance, offering a wide range of design options to suit any style. For instance, if you like the look of hardwood floors, you can find vinyl plank flooring that closely resembles wood, complete with realistic grain patterns and textures on the vinyl planks. If you’re more into a modern aesthetic, LVT can also replicate the appearance of ceramic tiles, providing the same clean finish.
How long should LVT last?
LVT flooring can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years or more. High-quality LVT, especially when installed and maintained correctly, is designed to withstand the rigours of daily use, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for both residential and commercial settings.
