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LVP vs. LVT: Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Home

January 31, 2025
LVP vs. LVT

LVP vs. LVT: Choosing the Best Flooring for Your Home

Choosing the right flooring for your home is an important decision. With so many options available, it can be tough to know which one is best for you. Two popular choices are Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). Both offer great looks and durability, but they have some key differences that may make one a better fit for your needs.


LVP and LVT are both types of vinyl flooring, but they come in different shapes and styles. LVP looks like wood planks, while LVT mimics stone or ceramic tiles. These flooring types are known for being tough, water-resistant, and easy to maintain. They are a great option for busy households with kids or pets.


Understanding the differences between LVP and LVT can help you decide which one will work best in your home. You'll want to consider factors like where you plan to install the flooring, your budget, and the overall look you want to achieve. This guide will walk you through the essentials, so you can make an informed choice for your next home project.

What is LVP and What is LVT?

Luxury Vinyl Plank, or LVP, is a type of vinyl flooring that mimics the look of real wood. It comes in plank shapes, similar to hardwood flooring. The planks have a realistic texture and grain, making them a popular choice for those who love the look of wood but want an easier-to-maintain option.


Luxury Vinyl Tile, or LVT, is another form of vinyl flooring that looks like stone or ceramic tile. It comes in square or rectangular tiles and can be arranged in various patterns. Just like LVP, LVT has a textured surface to give it a more realistic appearance.


The primary materials for both LVP and LVT are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other additives that make the flooring durable and water-resistant. The main difference is in their shapes and the way they are designed to mimic either wood or stone/ceramic. While LVP offers a classic wood look, LVT provides a broad range of styles, including marble and other types of stone.

Benefits of LVP and LVT Flooring

Both LVP and LVT flooring come with many advantages. Let’s start with LVP:


  • Durability: LVP is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
  • Water-Resistance: LVP is great for rooms that may see moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Easy Installation: Many LVP options are designed for easy click-and-lock installation, making it a good choice for DIY projects.


LVT flooring also offers its own set of benefits:


  • Versatile Styles: LVT is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect match for any room.
  • Comfort: The surface of LVT is softer underfoot compared to real stone or ceramic tiles, making it more comfortable to walk on.
  • Low Maintenance: LVT is easy to clean and maintain with simple sweeping and occasional mopping.


When comparing LVP and LVT, both types excel in durability and ease of maintenance. However, LVP tends to resemble wood more closely, while LVT offers more variety in stone and tile looks. In terms of installation, both types are relatively easy for homeowners to install themselves, but LVP might edge out slightly with its user-friendly click-and-lock systems.

Best Rooms for LVP and LVT Flooring

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) are versatile, making them great for many rooms in your home. Here are some recommendations:


  • LVP:

Living Rooms: Its wood-like appearance adds warmth and elegance.

Bedrooms: Provides a cozy, comfortable feel and is easy to clean.

Basements: Ideal for these areas because it handles moisture well.

  • LVT:

Kitchens: Its stone or tile look pairs well with kitchen designs.

Bathrooms: Water-resistant, perfect for moisture-prone areas.

Mudrooms: Durable and easy to clean, ideal for areas with high foot traffic.


Both LVP and LVT perform well in different settings, thanks to their water-resistant properties. This is especially valuable in places like bathrooms and kitchens where spills and moisture are common. They are also durable and simple to maintain, making them suitable for spaces like living rooms and bedrooms where comfort and style are priorities.

How to Decide Between LVP and LVT

Choosing the right flooring depends on a few key factors. Here’s a list to help you decide:


  • Style Preferences: Do you prefer a wood look or a stone/tile look? LVP mimics wood, while LVT offers a variety of stone and tile designs.
  • Room Usage: Think about where the flooring will go. LVP is great for living rooms and bedrooms, while LVT is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Durability Needs: Both are durable, but if you have pets or young children, you might lean towards the one that seems tougher based on your daily use.
  • Ease of Installation: Both LVP and LVT are easy to install, but LVP often has a simpler click-and-lock mechanism.
  • Budget: Consider your budget. Both options are affordable compared to real wood or stone, but prices can vary.


When thinking about installation, if you plan to do it yourself, look for options with user-friendly installation methods like click-and-lock. Regarding budget, both LVP and LVT are cost-effective, but it's always good to compare prices based on the style and brand.

Conclusion

Selecting between Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) can seem challenging, but understanding their differences, benefits, and ideal uses can make the decision easier. LVP is perfect for those who want the warmth of wood-like flooring in living rooms and bedrooms. It offers easy maintenance and durability. On the other hand, LVT shines in kitchens and bathrooms with its variety of stone and tile looks and its water-resistant properties.


Both types of flooring bring value, style, and functionality to your home, whether you have a busy household, pets, or just want an attractive and durable floor. Assess your needs, consider the room you’re updating, and think about your personal style and comfort preferences. Contact iBLDA for expert advice and a range of high-quality LVP and LVT options. Transform your home with the perfect flooring in Nashville, TN, today!