Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) – Things You Need to Know

By: Lisa Coleman | Updated: October 22, 2024 |

When it comes to commercial flooring, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), including Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), stands out as a top contender. Commercial spaces require flooring solutions that balance durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost-efficiency, and LVT checks all those boxes. In this guide, we’ll dive into the specifics of LVT for commercial installations, helping you navigate the key factors to consider for your business space.

Performance: The Importance of the Wear Layer

In commercial environments, the wear layer of LVT is especially critical as it must withstand heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, and potential scuffs or scrapes. The wear layer, measured in mils, should be much thicker for commercial use than for residential spaces. Commercial-grade LVT typically features wear layers ranging from 20 to 40 mils, with higher mils providing better durability and protection. Choosing the right finish is also vital for commercial spaces, where daily wear and tear is unavoidable. Common finish options include:

  • Urethane finishes: Provides solid resistance to scratches and dents.
  • Aluminum oxide or ceramic bead finishes: Offers superior protection against high-impact areas and heavy use, making them ideal for commercial settings.

Manufacturers like Shaw and Armstrong also offer their own branded wear layers:

  • Diamond 10 Technology (Armstrong) – Provides enhanced durability and scratch resistance through its innovative use of cultured diamonds.
  • ExcoGuard (Shaw) – Offers superior surface protection, enhancing wear resistance and stain repellency for long-lasting performance.

Note: The thicker the wear layer and the more robust the finish, the better the flooring can perform in high-traffic areas, which will also affect the cost.

In commercial applications, cost management is key. LVT’s price can vary depending on where it is manufactured. American-made LVT tends to be more expensive due to stricter manufacturing guidelines and higher labor costs, but it often comes with better quality assurance and shorter lead times. Imported LVT can be more affordable, but availability and quality may vary, especially when you need larger quantities for a commercial project. The cost of LVT for commercial use ranges from $1.00 to $5.00 per square foot, not including installation. Commercial flooring should also be evaluated based on lifetime costs. A less expensive LVT product might require more frequent replacement or repairs, which can increase long-term costs. A higher-end LVT with a thick wear layer and robust finish may cost more upfront, but it will save on maintenance, repairs, and replacements over time.

 Visual Appeal

LVT’s visual appeal is a major selling point for commercial properties. With advanced printing technology, LVT can replicate the look of natural materials such as wood, stone, or even concrete, while offering the durability that a commercial space requires. The wood-look LVT is particularly popular in office spaces, while the stone-look LVT works well in retail and hospitality environments.

Maintenance

Maintenance is one of the primary reasons commercial buyers choose LVT. In high-traffic business environments, floors need to be easy to clean and resistant to damage. Unlike wood or natural stone, LVT requires no waxing or polishing, making it a time- and cost-efficient option. Regular cleaning involves simple sweeping or mopping, and with the proper finish, the floor will continue to look good for years, even in the busiest areas.

How LVT Coating and Layers Work

Commercial LVT is made up of multiple layers that enhance its strength and resilience. These layers include:

  • Backing layer: Often reinforced for commercial use, providing stability and sound dampening.
  • Core layer: This is where the LVT gains its flexibility and water-resistant properties, crucial for businesses where spills or moisture might be a concern.
  • Design layer: Provides the look of wood, stone, or other materials, while maintaining commercial-grade durability.
  • Wear layer: This is the critical top layer that protects the design and overall tile from damage.

Types of LVT Textures

LVT offers a variety of textures that not only enhance the look of your space but also add a functional layer, such as slip resistance, which is essential for commercial areas. The most common textures include:

  • Embossed textures: Mimic the grain and feel of natural materials like wood and stone while adding slip resistance, making it both practical and stylish.
  • Smooth textures: Often preferred in modern, high-traffic areas like offices or retail spaces.
  • Textured or hand-scraped finishes: Ideal for businesses that want a rustic or authentic feel with added durability.Pricing and Point of Production Considerations

    Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) offers an ideal balance of durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost efficiency. The high-performance wear layers and protective finishes make LVT perfect for high-traffic areas, while the variety of textures and visual options allow facilities of all kinds to maintain a professional and inviting appearance.

    Continental Flooring is excited to offer our customers a wide range of LVT and LVP options. Our flooring and ceiling experts are ready to find the right products to meet your procurement needs. GSA Buyers can conveniently register online to access up-to-date GSA pricing from 13 contracted manufacturers. Whether you need product advice, samples, specification assistance, or to place an order, Continental Flooring simplifies the process with one call to meet all your requirements.

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