LVT, WPC, Rigid Core,MLF - What the ...?

LVT, WPC, Rigid Core, MLF - What the ...?

You’re not the only one who can’t make sense of the alphabet soup of luxury vinyl flooring options.

But no matter by what name it goes by, luxury vinyl is a big winner.

Here is the evolution of luxury vinyl - so far!

LVT (luxury vinyl tile) and LVP (luxury vinyl plank) feature improved wear layers, high-definition visuals and embossing techniques added to vinyl flooring's already powerful performance story which make it a favorite among consumers. LVT is usually installed fully adhered to the subfloor and may telegraph subfloor imperfections.

Rigid Core Vinyl or MLF (multilayered flooring) improves upon LVT by combining vinyl with calcium carbonate for a rigid, water proof core that provides increased dimensional stability. This also gives it superior dent resistance and is often combined with enhanced wear layers to protect against scuffs and staining. It is most often installed as a floating floor. Click locking systems benefit from Rigid's increased thickness for an even easier installation.

There is a trade off though: It's solid core prevents deeper embossing found in other luxury vinyl floors. Rigid core MLF is especially popular in multi-family housing and commercial settings for its enhanced performances.

WPC (wood plastic composite) also boasts superior dent resistance and a rigid, water resistant core. Not as resistant to dents as Rigid core products, WPC does offer a level of comfort underfoot that other luxury vinyl floors can't match as well as additional sound and thermal insulation qualities, especially when combined with the enhanced backing layers found in better products. Because of how it's made, WPC also delivers the high-quality visuals and deep embossing you won't find in Rigid core products, although the more traditional LVT's feature the same benefit. Here as well, WPC's thicker profile allows for click locking systems and a floating floor installation.

Call it what you will, there’s a reason luxury vinyl is so popular today. 

Great looks, superior performance, water proof and easy installation. 

Luxury vinyl has it all!

- Sandy 

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USFloors Coretec Plus Design WPC Accolade Oak

 

Shaw Floors 5th and Main Ocean Elite LVT

Hallmark Floors El Dorado Hermosa Stone luxury vinyl