I am overwhelmed: Should I Use Luxury Vinyl Plank
EDUCATION
Everyone is talking about Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring. What is it? Should I use it? Will I regret it long term?
To begin. LVP is a solid vinyl flooring product that can be made to create the look of hardwoods, tile and stone. One of the top qualities of LVP is the fact that it is 100% water proof. This is a solid non-porous product that can have essentially last a lifetime.
Most often homeowners will use this as a substitute for hardwoods in area that have a lot of water and moisture. Bathrooms, kitchens, mudrooms, and laundry are great spaces for using this product. Quite often in “new construction” we see LVP used as a standard or upgraded flooring on the entire moin floor of the home. This creates continuity and flow in your home.
When using luxury vinyl plank flooring, be careful when matching it up with various other flooring materials. Typically LVP will be thinner than carpet and hardwood. Too many flooring options could create the need for various transition strips. This will completely take away from the flow and luxury full you are striving for.
LVP is typically affordable, easy to install and maintain. There many vendors offering various styles, looks, and width of options. Just remember-the product is typically all the same regardless of the brand. Just make sure you are selecting a solid vinyl plank and not vinyl glued to cork board.
Let’s be honest. There is still a prestige associated with having hardwoods in your home. This is a consideration to keep in mind when deciding if LVP is right for your family. Due to the fact the its such an affordable product that installs so easily—you can change it out when ready.
So Timothy, when would you use LVP? What’s your final word? Listen. Ask any of my clients and they will tell you I love marble and solid site stained hardwood floors. Does this mean its right for everyone? Not at all. I think luxury vinyl planks are great for high traffic areas and basements. Hardwoods floors will be sustible to dents and scratches. I think LVP is great for growing families and for home with large pets that are known to scratch and dig while inside. This is a great options for entry level home and mid-level. If you know that this isn’t your dream home and money is an issue—this is a solid option. While working on a budget for a mid level home—I would much rather see my clients have money left to splurge or higher end technology, lighting and other materials in the home. With LVP you can achieve the look hardwoods while potentially saving $10,000 or more depending on the price of the home.
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