Choosing a new floor can be an exciting process, but with so many options available, it’s important to know what to look for. When it comes to Luxury Vinyl Flooring, several key factors will help you select the best product for your home and lifestyle.
At Meyer Floor Covering, we believe in empowering our customers in Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Steilacoom with the knowledge they need to make a confident decision.
Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating Luxury Vinyl Flooring
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Overall Thickness: The thickness of the plank or tile is a crucial indicator of quality and comfort. Thicker LVT or LVP often feels more substantial and luxurious underfoot and is better at hiding minor imperfections in the subfloor. Thickness is measured in millimeters, and while it contributes to quality, it's not the only factor.
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Wear Layer Thickness: This is arguably the most important element to consider. The wear layer is the clear top layer that protects the photographic design film from scratches, dents, and stains. It's measured in "mils" (a thousandth of an inch). A thicker wear layer means greater durability and a longer lifespan. For a residential setting, a wear layer of 12 mil or higher is a good starting point, while high-traffic commercial spaces often require 20 mil or more.
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Core Type: The core of luxury vinyl provides its stability and rigidity. There are two main types:
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WPC (Wood Plastic Composite): This core is made from wood flour and thermoplastics, making it slightly softer and warmer underfoot. It’s excellent for comfort and sound absorption.
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SPC (Stone Plastic Composite): This core is made from a blend of limestone and PVC. It's denser, more rigid, and nearly indestructible. SPC is less flexible, making it ideal for covering subfloors with minor imperfections and offering superior resistance to heavy impacts.
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Installation Method: Luxury vinyl is primarily installed in two ways:
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Click-and-Lock: This "floating" installation method is popular for its simplicity and quick installation. The planks or tiles click together without the need for adhesives, making it a great option for DIYers, though professional installation ensures a perfect, seamless result.
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Glue-Down: This method involves adhering the planks or tiles directly to the subfloor. It provides the most secure installation and is highly recommended for commercial spaces or areas with extremely heavy furniture, as it prevents any movement of the flooring.
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Design and Texture: Modern luxury vinyl is available in a stunning range of designs. Look for a product with a high-quality photographic layer that has low pattern repetition for a more realistic look. Also, check for "embossed in register" (EIR) texture, which means the texture of the plank matches the grain of the image, giving it an incredibly authentic feel.
Choosing the Right Luxury Vinyl Flooring is an Important investment in Your Lakewood, WA Home
The team at Meyer Floor Covering is here to simplify the process. We'll walk you through every option, from wear layers to core types, to ensure you select a floor that not only looks beautiful but also stands up to your family's needs for years to come.
Visit our showroom in Lakewood, WA, or call to schedule a free consultation. We serve Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Steilacoom.
