In today’s bustling market of interior design and home renovation, the choices for flooring materials seem almost limitless. Amid this vast array of options, luxury vinyl flooring has emerged as a popular and versatile choice for homeowners. However, as with any product category, not all luxury vinyl is created equal, and discerning consumers often find themselves pondering the age-old question: “Is all luxury vinyl the same, and how do I know what to buy?” In this article, we will delve into the world of luxury vinyl flooring, exploring the factors that set different products apart, and providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect luxury vinyl flooring for your home. Whether you’re embarking on a home improvement project or simply curious about the options available, read on to discover how to navigate the world of luxury vinyl with confidence.
Some Simple things to ensure about Luxury Vinyl you are buying
When it comes to luxury vinyl flooring, it’s crucial to recognize that not all products are created equal. The variations in specifications can greatly impact the performance and longevity of your flooring, making it essential to have a clear understanding of these specifications before making a selection. If a brand is unwilling to share these specifications with you, it’s a clear sign that you should question the quality and reliability of their product. To make informed decisions, here are some key specifications you should be aware of:
Stone Content: One of the critical specifications to consider is the stone content in the luxury vinyl plank. Ideally, you should opt for planks with a stone content of over 65%. Anything less than this can result in movement, particularly during hot summer days.
Wear Layer: The wear layer thickness is a crucial factor in determining the durability of the flooring. The lower end typically starts at 12 mil, while 20 mil is considered suitable for commercial use. We highly recommend opting for a 20 mil wear layer for enhanced durability.
Click System: The click system used in luxury vinyl planks varies across brands. Some systems may not effectively hold and secure the boards together, especially under heavy loads and daily use. We strongly advise using trusted systems like Valinge or the Uniclick system, as we believe that other systems may not provide the ideal long-lasting performance.
Matching Moldings: When considering luxury vinyl flooring, it’s essential to ensure that matching moldings are available. Avoid color-coordinated moldings, as they may not perfectly match your flooring and can potentially compromise the overall aesthetics of your project. Ensure that the moldings are made from the same flooring film for a seamless look.
Inclusion of Pad: Many lower-cost luxury vinyl flooring options do not include a pad. This absence can result in a denser, harder feel underfoot and increased noise from items contacting the floor. A pad is a necessity for comfort and sound insulation. If the pad is not attached, be prepared for an additional expense, typically around $0.50 per square foot, to ensure your flooring feels and performs optimally.
By paying close attention to these specifications, you can make an informed choice when selecting luxury vinyl flooring that meets your requirements for durability, aesthetics, and overall satisfaction.
What is the most important spec of a luxury vinyl floor?
spc luxury vinyl flooring side view
The pivotal factors in evaluating the quality of luxury vinyl flooring come down to the click system and the stone content within the product. It’s a challenge to definitively prioritize one over the other, as both play critical roles in the flooring’s performance. These two elements significantly outweigh the importance of the “wear layer,” which often tends to be more of a marketing tactic employed by other manufacturers.
The stone content is paramount in ensuring the flooring’s durability and long-lasting performance. Simultaneously, the click system, in a distinct manner, contributes to durability by securely locking the material together, ensuring a snug and enduring fit. These two aspects collectively define the reliability and longevity of luxury vinyl flooring, making them central considerations for discerning flooring professionals and consumers alike.
In the grand scheme of things, the brand of luxury vinyl flooring you choose becomes less relevant when you can access and verify the critical specifications either through discussion or by reviewing a comprehensive technical specification sheet for the material. When these specifications align as expected, you can proceed with confidence. However, if you encounter hidden specifications or convoluted language in the product information, it’s a clear signal to exercise caution and consider alternative options. Ensuring transparency and clarity in the specifications is paramount when making an informed and reliable choice in luxury vinyl flooring. We suggest you look at our Boise, Atlanta and Spokane pages for more information. We also highly suggest looking at the Cordalera brand of luxury vinyl or visiting their website here.
