Luxury Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide: Cost, Durability, And Design

Luxury vinyl flooring (LVF) has attracted widespread interest for its stylish appeal and practical benefits. However, understanding the various aspects of LVF can be challenging. This guide will offer clear insights into these essential factors: durability, stain resistance, maintenance and upkeep, cost and value, installation options, understanding the differences between rigid core and glue-down, and protection against sunlight and fading.

Durability and Longevity

Ashton 2.0^™ Stableton^™ Luxury Vinyl Planks

Luxury vinyl flooring meets the aesthetic demands of modern homes but is also engineered to endure the rigors of daily life. Modern vinyl flooring is designed to resist scratches and maintains its integrity and appearance even in the busiest households. It's the practical choice for spaces that see frequent activity, from children playing to scampering pets; this workhorse stands up to the challenge without compromising on style.

To further enhance the robustness of LVF, consider selecting options with thicker wear layers. This additional thickness protects the floor from the impacts of high foot traffic and the scuffs and scrapes of everyday use. Alongside its inherent strength, many luxury vinyl products come with substantial manufacturer warranties, offering you an extra layer of confidence. These warranties assure you of the product's quality and protect your investment. As such, LVF isn't just a flooring option; it's a long-term investment into the durability and preservation of your living space, promising a floor that remains as functional and attractive as the day it was installed for years to come.

Stain Resistance, Maintenance, and Upkeep 

Trecento^® Calacatta Marbello^® Luxury Vinyl Tile

The durability and ease of care of luxury vinyl flooring make it a standout choice for those who value aesthetics and practicality in their living spaces. Manufactured with stain-resistant materials and construction, LVF simplifies cleanup—spills can be swiftly wiped away without leaving a trace, ensuring the floor retains its pristine condition over time. The daily upkeep is remarkably straightforward, nothing more than sweeping and mopping, which preserves the floor's like-new appearance without strenuous effort.

Cost and Value

Regarding cost-effectiveness and value in flooring, luxury vinyl flooring stands out as a beautiful alternative to costly materials such as hardwood and stone. The cost range for LVF is wide, offering choices that start at the budget-friendly price of $1.75 per square foot to the higher-end selections priced over $5 per square foot, exclusive of installation costs. This range reflects the diversity of vinyl flooring options available on the market, with factors such as the thickness of the planks, the durability of the wear layer, and the prestige of the brand all playing a role in determining the final cost. Despite these variables, LVF remains an economically savvy choice for renovation and new construction projects.

Installation Options

XL Cyrus^® Brookline^® Luxury Vinyl Planks

With luxury vinyl flooring, rigid core and glue-down are the leading choice for those seeking durability, style, and easy installation.

Rigid core vinyl flooring, as the name implies, features a sturdy core. It's renowned for being waterproof, and its innovative, easy-to-install locking mechanism simplifies the installation process, making it an ideal choice for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. This flooring type is especially beneficial in moisture-prone areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Rigid core is available in various designs, including luxury vinyl planks that mimic the look of wood and luxury vinyl tile that offers the appearance of natural stone and intricate patterns. Its superior dimensional stability makes it perfect for busy spaces, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance and installation.

Glue-down luxury vinyl flooring presents a more cost-effective solution while offering a range of stylish options. This method involves flexible vinyl planks secured to the floor with glue, providing a versatile solution for residential and commercial spaces across all levels, including basements. Glue-down comes in an extensive palette of wood looks and colors. Though these planks are generally thinner, they excel in creating a seamless and elegant finish, making them a popular choice for those seeking a high-end look without the high-end price tag.

Sunlight and Fading

Trecento^® Windsor Isle^™ Luxury Vinyl Tile

Luxury vinyl flooring is renowned for its resilience and longevity, making it a smart investment for those seeking durability and style. While LVF boasts impressive resistance to the effects of light, like all materials, it can be susceptible to fading when subjected to continual rays of direct sunlight over time. It's wise to consider window treatments to preserve the color of your flooring, such as UV-blocking blinds or tinted window films, that can significantly reduce the impact of sunlight. Additionally, thoughtful furniture placement and rugs can minimize sunlight exposure, further protecting it from potential fading.

If you want affordable and robust luxury vinyl flooring, check out MSI's comprehensive Everlife^® Luxury Vinyl Collection. This collection features a wide selection of luxury vinyl planks and tiles that mimic the authentic beauty of natural wood and natural stone. Available in rigid core and glue-down options, our collections are aesthetically pleasing and boast waterproof capabilities, easy maintenance, and enduring durability. For expert advice, contact our team of experts at MSI for personalized guidance and assistance. Chat with us online, find an authorized local MSI retailer, or visit an MSI showroom.

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