Creating a beautiful home is an art that requires skillfully balancing functionality with personal style. Choosing the right flooring is a crucial step in the process. With the right selection, you can transform even small spaces into areas that feel large, inviting, and deeply reflective of your unique personality. While there are many options for flooring, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and planks—or LVP and LVT—have quickly become a popular choice among interior designers due to their durability, versatility, and affordability.
Traditional vinyl is a durable, cost-effective material that has been used in many homes for decades. It is water resistant and easy to clean, making it ideal for rooms like the bathroom and kitchen. In addition, its design allows for easy installation, making it an excellent alternative to hardwood floors. However, modern luxury vinyl is even more durable than its predecessors, offering a long lifespan and an array of styles to choose from.
Luxury vinyl planks and tiles are available in a wide range of colors, including the popular wood-look option. These planks are often indistinguishable from their natural counterparts, thanks to advanced printing technology and embossing techniques. They are also available in a variety of finishes, from matte to glossy, to complement any space. The glossy finish can make a room appear brighter by reflecting light, while the matte option lends a more contemporary look that pairs well with a neutral color scheme.
The versatile nature of these products makes them a great alternative to more expensive materials, such as stone or wood. In addition, the cushioned backing underfoot of these products is soft and comfortable to walk on, and it helps to reduce noise in a room. For high-traffic areas like entryways, this softer surface can withstand the comings and goings of busy families.
LVP and LVT are water-resistant, which makes them a smart choice for rooms that experience a lot of moisture or humidity. This includes bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and basements. The material also resists scratches and dents, which is important for a high-traffic area. Additionally, these floors are relatively inexpensive to maintain, with regular cleaning and waxing ensuring that they last for years to come.
The hottest trend in luxury vinyl is the wood-look option. These planks can be indistinguishable from real wood, with grain patterns and textured finishes to create a warm, welcoming ambiance in any living space. The material is also available in a range of colors, from classic oak to distressed barnwood, allowing you to choose the perfect look for your home. Other popular colors include greys and beiges, which pair well with a variety of design styles. When properly maintained, these types of floors can last up to 25 years.