The five top reasons to install LVT are largely due to technology application advances that have made it a long lasting, durable option.
Here we examine each reason in more detail:
Reason 1: LVT and Application Pattern Technology
LVT is highly sought-after commercial flooring choice as designers are drawn to new sizes, patterns, colours and format options as application technology progresses.
LVT is an extremely versatile flooring choice as it can replicate the appearance of natural stone or wood but offer much better long-term wear. LVT is also more economical from an initial cost perspective (supply + install) over ceramic.
LVT, due to the way it’s made, won’t chip, or discolour and will not expand and contract as wood does in humid or dry seasons. Advances in technology offer the look of real wood or stone at a much lower price point.
Darwin Fisher LVT installation at Entertainment One
Reason 2: LVT is a Sustainable Solution
Products that are made from 100% vinyl are now able to be classified as green solutions and eligible for LEED points. Technology has significantly changed over time in terms of sustainability and newer waterproof finishes that are based on wood plastic composite have become available.
In a recent article we featured in April why LVT has hit the top spot in the resilient flooring sector and why its market share continues to grow. According to San Francisco, CA-based, Grand View Research, LVT accounted for more than 38% share of global revenue in 2020. Grand View also reports global resilient flooring market was estimated at USD 38.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028.
While COVID-19 created worldwide supply chain management issues impacted economies worldwide, there has now been an upturn. That change is forecast to lead to future growth as the market recovers and demand of sustainable solutions increases due to LVTs low environmental impact.
Reason 3: LVT Is Easy to Install and Maintain
Newer technologies have also made LVT easier to install and maintenance, resulting in cost savings over time. For these reasons it has been adopted across a wide range of industry verticals including retail, healthcare, education, entertainment, and hospitality.
“LVT has become our most popular flooring installation choice,” says Doug McDonald, President of Darwin Fisher Commercial Flooring. “More than 80% of our clients are demanding LVT which is a big departure from the past. Carpet tile sits in second place, respectively. We are now installing a lot of LVT in healthcare, specifically the dental office and orthodontist segments.”
LVT and healthcare
Reason 4: LVT Performs Better Acoustically
Flooring decisions in healthcare depend on how it will affect patients, safety, indoor air quality and infection control. Floor surfaces also need to be slip resistant and offer smooth transitions from one area to another for staff/patients and related equipment. Part of the reason beyond new finishes and designs, is that these technologies offer sound transmission protection. Dentists and doctors stress the need for soundproofing. Walls, ceiling, and flooring materials selected need to help protect patient privacy and hinder sound travel. LVT performs better acoustically when compared to ceramic tile.
McDonald goes on to explain that LVT is taking off in virtually all sectors not just healthcare. “From office buildings to restaurants to student residences – it’s in considerable demand and being used with varying applications.”
Reason 5: LVT is Made of Five Unique Layers
Five more reasons to install LVT is based on how it’s made. There are 5 distinct layers:
- Polyurethane coating (sometimes re-enforced with ceramic bead, silica bead or aluminum oxide) to improve durability
- Protective clear layer known as the ‘wear layer’
- Print film layer (with your chosen design)
- Vinyl core
- Vinyl backing
LVT gaining popularity in commercial construction
This results in a flooring solution that is easy to install, durable and easy to clean and maintain. Typically, LVT wear layers range from 20-28 mm of thickness for commercial installation projects, with thickness selected based on requirements from low through to high foot traffic areas. (i.e., low traffic office space as opposed to building entrance areas).
LVT is protected by a clear layer which helps to maintain its appearance over long periods of time. The protective layer doesn’t need regular waxing and polishing like VCT. However, this top layer will wear over time and may need to be reapplied for heavy traffic areas.
The wear layer varies in terms of thickness. Thickness must be chosen in conjunction with the traffic area as heavy, long-term wear will affect appearance. It is less likely to scuff, indent or scratch with regular use and wear and tear traffic and furniture moving. This makes it a solid flooring investment choice for the long-term, combined with the fact that it requires very little maintenance.
5 Top Reasons to Install LVT and Research
There are several different types of LVT products on the market. Many manufacturers offer different performance ratios from one product to another. This includes the surface of the product, to the type of backing used, in addition to thickness of the tiles.
Ensure your flooring installer is knowledgeable of the differences, quality and applications that would best suit your environment, including projected wear from foot traffic/furniture, installation, and maintenance and acoustic considerations.
For more information about LVT flooring installation solutions please fill out this form on our website or email us directly at info@darwinfisher.com.