All About LVP Flooring
What’s LVP?
LVP, also known as LVT and Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile is an extremely versatile and popular flooring option. Mimicking the look of hardwood but with hefty water resistance, scratch resistance, and often a lower price tag, these days, LVP is a popular choice in houses of every price point in the PNW. In fact, over 85% of our flooring installs in the Tacoma area involve LVP.
How much does it cost?
LVP can range in price from $0.79 cents per square foot to well over $12 a square foot. Typically, we recommend products in the $3-6 a square foot range. We carry several options in that price point that have fantastic durability, high pattern variability, and a quality built-in pad, including Gaia and Lions Floor.
Types of LVP
LVP/LVT is an umbrella term that often encompasses the below floors, however, it is also technically it’s own category. Luxury Vinyl Plank is 100% plastic/vinyl.
SPC is Stone Plastic Composite, or essentially LVP blended with stone dust to create a super resilient, 100% waterproof flooring. It has all the benefits of LVP, with additional durability. One way to tell the difference is that the planks are heavy!
WPC is Wood Plastic Composite. This is not as common of a product as SPC or traditional LVP, and is a bit misleading, as the “wood” is really wood fiber or dust rather than actual wood.
What are all the layers in LVP?
LVP flooring has many layers.
UV layer – Very top, very thin layer. Creates stain-resistance, enhances waterproof performance and prevents fading.
Wear layer – Protects the floor from damage. This is an important spec; we recommend a 20 mil wear layer, but a 12 mil should have sufficient protection for most residential settings.
Decorative layer – This is the printed wood-look pattern.
Core – Durable rigid core of plank. The biggest layer, measured in mm. This typically ranges from 2-10mm, with a minimum recommended thickness of 4mm for household use. 8+ mm is typically for commercial use.
Bottom layer – Cork or foam backing material that gives some cushioning for a more comfortable underfoot feel
What is the installation cost for LVP? Can I install it myself?
Install cost can vary depending on the product that is being demoed (carpet, hardwood, tile), whether or not there are stairs or lots of doors, and how flat and smooth the subfloor is. It is extremely important that the subfloor is well prepared for most LVP products, especially the thinner ones. Plan $3-8 per square foot plus dump disposal costs for demoing an existing floor, prepping the subfloor as needed, and installing LVP. That being said, LVP install is a popular and DIY-friendly option for many.
Are you looking for LVP flooring install in Pierce county, WA? Contact us today for an estimate!