![\"Vinyl](\"https:\/\/diyhousebuilding.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Vinyl-Plank-Flooring-Pros-And-Cons-Complete-Guide.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nOne type, however, that has become more and more popular in recent years is vinyl flooring, particularly vinyl plank flooring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When it comes to vinyl plank flooring, the confusion doesn\u2019t end. There are so many acronyms, such as LVP, WTH, and WPC. But, what do these mean?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, we are going to discuss these different vinyl flooring in today\u2019s post. You may conjure up images of a roll or sheet of flooring when thinking about vinyl.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The type that ripped easily if you caught it by accident or dropped something whilst making food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, vinyl plank flooring has come a long way since early vinyl flooring and it is very different today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Synthetic and man-made, today\u2019s vinyl plank flooring is made to look natural and, best of all, it is usually cheaper than some other materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, there are some disadvantages to using it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To help you decide whether vinyl plank flooring is right for you, we have compiled this article to talk you through the pros and cons of using this type of flooring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, you can make an informed decision on whether you want to install vinyl plank flooring<\/a> or choose another material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n LVP is an acronym for Luxury Vinyl Plank and is the name for all vinyl flooring designed in a plank style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This gives the illusion of wood floors but with the added benefit and features of vinyl material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On occasions, you may hear the term LVT, as well, which is short for Luxury Vinyl Tile. This acronym covers all vinyl items that are made to look like stone or tile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Generally speaking, LVP is used most often in the flooring industry, so, for the sake of today\u2019s article, we will use it as the catch-all term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Okay, so it\u2019s time to get confused – all LVP is considered vinyl plank but not all vinyl plank is considered LVP. Let\u2019s try and get our heads around this confusion!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Several layers make up LVP. These layers help to form a strong, durable type of flooring that is typically low maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The base layer is known as a \u201cbacker board.\u201d This acts as a flexible base and is made from PVC to add stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The center layer in most LVPs is \u201cwater-resistant,\u201d which shouldn’t be confused with being waterproof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nonetheless, this layer generally provides enough durability for the flooring to remain in good condition for longer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Above the core layer is the \u201cvinyl layer.\u201d This is the material that is marked with the color and pattern of the material it is mimicking, such as stone or wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And, on the top is the most important layer – the \u201cwear layer.\u201d This clear, thin layer acts as protection against marks and scratches. It is also typically stain-resistant, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thinner wear layers are usually installed in residential properties, whereas thicker wear layers are for commercial floors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The thickness of the wear layer usually measures from 6 mm from its thin end to around 30 mm on its high end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For residential or light commercial use, the layer thickness is normally under 12 mm. For commercial properties, the wear layer will tend to be 12 mm to 20 mm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compared to other vinyl flooring products, LVP is typically the most flexible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because it is glued to the ground, it is also one of the strongest and most durable, due to being fixed to the subfloor at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many advantages to using LVP flooring. Here are some of the main pros to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In general, LVP flooring is pretty cheap and a cost-effective way of transforming a space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compared to traditional hardwood flooring, it is much cheaper but can still give the illusion of the real deal and offer great durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s no doubt that LVP flooring is tough as nails. Because it has so many layers, it should last for many years. Moreover, top-quality LVP is dent, scratch, and scuff-resistant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That is why it is suitable for heavy traffic areas of your home and in commercial environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to mimic a particular style of material, LVP will almost certainly be able to please your tastes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From wood to stone, LVP offers virtually infinite options when mimicking other, more expensive types of flooring. And, it can achieve the same patterns easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n LVP material is surprisingly more water-resistant than its laminate counterpart. Therefore, it is perfect for installing in high-traffic areas of your home or office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n No more worrying about spills and stains that could be very costly on other types of flooring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although there are some advantages to using LVP flooring, there are some cons to consider, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you spend a bit less on an LVP product, you may find that it is of lower quality. Therefore, it may feature thinner wear layers that are not resistant to UV rays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your room is open to natural lighting all day long, every day, the flooring may start to fade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If exposed areas start to fade, you may not notice it as much, but when the time comes to rearrange furniture, it\u2019ll be pretty easy to see where those items once stood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the installation process, LVP can come with an unwelcome scent. This is because it is typically glued to the subfloor. And, we all know how smelly glue can be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The flooring can take quite some time to dry, so the smell of glue can linger. Also, if you want to replace the flooring in the future, it can be very difficult to replace the glue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, it is generally easier to replace one plank of LVP compared to WPC or SPC, which we will discuss further down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Yes, LVP can look luxurious but, at the end of the day, it\u2019s not the real deal. It may look like hardwood but it never will be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whilst this is not a bad thing, LVP will never get you the same return as true, solid hardwood flooring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not only that but you can refinish hardwood floors<\/a> when required, whereas it is not possible with LVP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In recent years, rigid core vinyl plank flooring has become one of the most popular types in homes and commercial settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rigid core flooring can be made from either WPC or SPC. WPC stands for Wood-Plastic Composite or Wood-Polymer Core. SPC stands for Stone-Polymer Core.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rigid core floors are generally designed to mimic standard hardwood flooring with the letters (either W or S) signifying the material that makes the core layer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As with LVP, WPC\/SPC rigid core flooring consists of layers. Together, these layers are suitable for residential and commercial buildings and can be used in both dry and wet settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The bottom layer of WPC\/SPC consists of an under layer of cork or foam and is typically attached. This helps to add extra comfort as you walk, as well as some sound absorption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Above this layer is the \u201ccore layer.\u201d This is made from a composite of stone or wood powder, as well as resin or plastic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Right above this is the \u201cvinyl layer.\u201d This is manufactured via digital technology where different colors and prints can be added and perfected to suit your tastes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The top layer is the \u201cwear layer.\u201d Like LVP, this is scratch and wear-resistant. Remember when we said that LVP flooring is not waterproof?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Well, WPC and SPC are fully waterproof. Therefore, they can be installed in moist, wet areas for residential and commercial use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The wood in its core will not ripple or swell when met with water, meaning improved longevity and durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unlike LVP flooring, WPC and SPC are float-installed. This means that they are not fixed to the substrate permanently. So, no glue is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This type of flooring implements an interlocking system. They connect to each other, allowing the floor to seemingly glide above the subfloor below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thickness levels vary, with measurements of 5, 5.5, 6.5, and 8 mm being the most common in lighter applications. Moreover, lighter WPC flooring is also lighter on the wallet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n SPC vinyl flooring is also typically thinner. Its stone base core tends to allow for a stronger plank that sports a thinner profile, such as 3.2 mm to 7 mm, as opposed to 5 mm to 8 mm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For the best feeling underfoot, thicker planks are the better option. These are also stronger and more durable. Even under a lot of foot traffic, they should hold up well over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the subfloor will usually need some sort of preparation before being installed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And, if you have uneven subfloors, the added rigidity of WPC and SPC flooring makes them fantastic options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With many colors and finishes available, rigid core WPC\/SPC flooring can help you achieve that perfect look in your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As with LVP flooring, rigid core WC and SPC flooring come with a host of advantages. Below are the main ones to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As with LVP, WPC and SPC flooring provides durability at a cheaper price than real stone or hardwood floors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although a little more expensive than LVP, WPC and SPC flooring, they are cost-effective overall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compared to other types of flooring, installing this type of rigid core material is a breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can also be tailored to suit your space more easily with the opportunity to even install it over existing flooring in some cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n WPC and SPC vinyl flooring offers an almost limitless palette of color options, patterns, and grains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, you should find it pretty easy to find flooring that looks just like other materials like stone, tile, or wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n WPC\/SPC vinyl flooring can be installed in moist and wet areas thanks to its waterproof properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compared to other options, like laminate, WPC\/SPC is the better option and sometimes the only option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So, whether you need new flooring in your basement, kitchen, or bathroom, using WPC and SPC vinyl flooring can do the job perfectly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like LVP, WPC\/SPC flooring is very durable. In fact, it is arguably stronger than LVP material.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is dent, scratch, and scuff resistant, meaning it can withstand heavy traffic in areas of your home for long periods of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, there are always two sides to a product. As well as the many advantages and benefits of using rigid core WPC\/SPC flooring, there are a few cons to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are a few.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like LVP, WPC\/SPC is not real hardwood, and never will be. Therefore, you cannot refinish it if you ever felt the need to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And, if you ever want to sell your home, it may not be to someone\u2019s taste, so you\u2019re unlikely to make a great return on investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some rigid core WPC\/SPC flooring may not be UV-resistant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whilst most are, you need to double-check its true resistance, especially if it\u2019s being installed in an area exposed to a lot of natural light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Over time, you find that the flooring will fade, like LVP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vinyl plank flooring comes in varied colors and patterns. With so much to choose from, you will find something to suit your home\u2019s design and style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With different thickness labels and price options, you should be able to find something within your budget that is also long-lasting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Typically cheaper than hardwood flooring, it is important to consider that you may not make any money back when selling your property in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But, to achieve the hardwood look, vinyl plank flooring<\/a> is affordable and attainable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We hope this guide has helped you decide whether vinyl plank flooring is right for you. Check out our other articles to find out more to help you on your home improvement journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Is LVP Flooring?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Pros Of LVP Flooring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Affordable<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Durable<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Stylish<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Pretty Versatile<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cons Of LVP Flooring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can Fade Due To UV Exposure<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It Can Be Pretty Smelly<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It May Not Bring You A Great Return On Investment When Selling Your Home<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What Is Rigid Core WPC\/SPC Flooring?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"What](\"https:\/\/diyhousebuilding.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/What-Is-Rigid-Core-WPCSPC-Flooring.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPros Of Rigid Core WPC\/SPC Flooring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cost-Effective<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Easy To Install<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Can Mimic Most Materials<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Versatile<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Tough<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cons Of Rigid Core WPC\/SPC Flooring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s Not The Real Deal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It May Not Be UV-Resistant<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
So, Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Worth It?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
In Summary<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n