Learn about LVT and LVP flooring, their differences, benefits, installation, and maintenance to make the best decision for your space.
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) are two popular flooring options for luxury and commercial spaces. They offer the refined look of wood or stone, the resilience to handle everyday wear and tear, and the flexibility to fit nearly any space. But when it comes to choosing between LVT vs. LVP flooring, the differences matter.
Both LVT and LVP offer unique design possibilities and performance features. While they share similar construction and benefits, their formats, finishes, and ideal use cases vary. Understanding the nuances between the two can help you make a more informed choice when renovating a home, upgrading a rental property, or redesigning a commercial space.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about LVT vs. LVP flooring, from how they’re made to where they perform best, so you can find the right fit for your next flooring project.
What is LVT Flooring?
Luxury vinyl tile is a high-performance flooring material engineered to replicate the sophisticated look of natural stone, ceramic, or porcelain tile without the associated cost or maintenance. It’s made from several layers, each contributing to durability, realism, and comfort underfoot.
At its core, LVT consists of the following component layers:
- A rigid vinyl base layer for structural stability
- A high-definition photographic layer that mimics stone or tile patterns with incredible detail
- A high-performance wear layer that resists scratches, scuffs, and stains
- In some products, an added topcoat for enhanced protection and texture
LVT is particularly valued for its waterproof properties, which are ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Its ability to emulate the texture and variation of real tile makes it a favorite among homeowners seeking timeless elegance with modern convenience.
This flooring is commonly installed in residential and commercial spaces where style, durability, and easy upkeep are top priorities. With a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, LVT offers design flexibility while standing up to everyday life.
What is LVP Flooring?
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is designed to imitate the natural warmth and texture of real hardwood floors without the limitations of solid wood. Like LVT, it’s constructed from multiple layers that enhance performance, longevity, and comfort, but it comes in a plank format that mirrors traditional wood boards.
The standard construction of LVP includes the following:
- A rigid core layer that provides strength and stability
- A realistic photographic layer showcasing wood grains, knots, and textures
- A protective wear layer that defends against scratches, dents, and everyday wear
- Optional features like underlayment backing for added cushion and sound absorption
LVP excels in spaces where the look of hardwood is desired but where moisture or heavy use might pose challenges. It’s popular in living rooms, bedrooms, and open-concept floor plans. Because it’s typically water-resistant or fully waterproof, depending on the product, it also performs well in kitchens, entryways, and even bathrooms.
Thanks to its natural wood look, affordable price point, and ease of maintenance, LVP is often the go-to flooring for homeowners who want the timeless charm of hardwood with modern-day durability.
LVT vs LVP: Key Differences
While luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank share a similar layered construction and offer many matching benefits, the differences in format, aesthetics, and application make each uniquely suited to certain environments.
Here’s how LVT vs. LVP flooring compares across key categories:
Format and Design Intent
- LVT comes in square or rectangular tiles and is crafted to mimic stone, ceramic, or porcelain tile.
- LVP is shaped like traditional wooden planks and emulates hardwood flooring in look and texture.
Installation Methods
- LVT and LVP can be installed using click-lock systems, glue-down applications, or loose-lay techniques.
- LVP’s plank format often makes it more intuitive for DIY installations in larger, open areas, while LVT is ideal for precise, patterned layouts in kitchens or baths.
Cost
- Pricing for both LVT and LVP is comparable, generally ranging from $2 to $7 per square foot, depending on the quality, design, and brand.
- Higher-end products with thicker wear layers or specialized finishes may cost more but offer greater durability and realism.
Durability
- Both are highly durable, but thanks to its longer format and flexible core, LVP performs better in areas with heavy foot traffic or rolling furniture.
- LVT’s dense structure holds up well under heavy appliances and frequent moisture exposure, making it a smart choice for kitchens and laundry rooms.
Maintenance
- Maintenance is simple for both: regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping are usually enough.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads to preserve the wear layer on either type.
Aesthetic Options
- LVT offers tile-inspired terracotta, travertine, slate, and marble finishes. It’s often chosen to create clean, grid-like designs or traditional tile layouts.
- LVP excels at capturing the depth and detail of hardwood species, from oak to walnut, with natural color variations and textured finishes.
These flooring options offer outstanding performance, style, and value. However, the decision between LVT vs. LVP flooring comes down to the look you want, the space you’re working with, and how much traffic and moisture that area receives.
Why Choose LVT Flooring?
Luxury vinyl tile offers more than just aesthetic appeal. It’s built to handle foot and material traffic while maintaining a refined, tile-inspired look. It combines durability and style in one streamlined solution when designing a high-end bathroom or upgrading a busy kitchen.
Here are some of the big reasons why homeowners and designers continue to choose LVT:
Durability That Lasts
LVT is engineered with a protective wear layer that defends against scratches, dents, and stains. It holds up beautifully in high-traffic areas and under heavy appliances, making it an excellent option for residential and light commercial spaces.
Waterproof by Design
LVT is highly water-resistant because of its non-porous surface and tight seams—and many varieties are fully waterproof. This makes it ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and other moisture-prone environments.
Style and Texture Variety
LVT mimics natural materials like stone, slate, and ceramic with incredible precision. The range of styles, from rustic travertine tones to sleek marble finishes, suits traditional and modern interiors.
Low Maintenance Lifestyle
LVT is easy to care for. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner is all it takes to keep your floors looking new. No sealing, waxing, or specialized treatments are required.
Whether you’re after long-term durability or timeless beauty underfoot, LVT is a practical and stylish choice that adapts to nearly any design vision.
Why Choose LVP Flooring?
Luxury vinyl plank flooring has become a favorite for homeowners who love the look of hardwood but want something more hard-wearing, affordable, and easier to maintain. It’s comparable to LVT and comes with its own unique features, as mentioned. With its authentic wood-like appearance and impressive performance, LVP brings classic style into modern spaces.
Here’s what makes LVP a smart flooring choice:
Authentic Hardwood Looks
LVP is designed to replicate natural wood species like oak, maple, walnut, and hickory. Its plank format allows for realistic grain patterns, subtle color variations, and even textured finishes that feel like real wood underfoot.
Durable and Family-Friendly
With its tough wear layer and impact-resistant construction, LVP easily handles the demands of busy households. It resists scratches from pets, dents from dropped objects, and fading from sunlight exposure, making it a great fit for living rooms, hallways, and play areas.
Simple and Flexible Installation
Many LVP products come with click-lock systems that make installation fast and straightforward, even for DIY projects. Whether floating the floor over existing tiles or using glue-down methods for added stability, LVP adapts to your space with minimal disruption.
Affordable Elegance
Compared to hardwood flooring, LVP offers significant savings in material and installation costs. You get the upscale appearance of wood without the upkeep or high price tag. For budget-conscious homeowners who don’t want to sacrifice style, LVP delivers beauty and practicality in equal measure.
If you want the charm of hardwood with greater resilience and less maintenance, LVP offers an elegant solution that doesn’t compromise performance.
Where to Use LVT and LVP Flooring
From our detailed comparisons, we can see that both LVT and LVP offer exceptional performance for various spaces. Knowing where each one shines can help you create the perfect balance of style and function in every room.
Residential Spaces
LVT is ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens—anywhere there is frequent water exposure. Its tile-like appearance also works beautifully in mudrooms and entryways, where durability and easy cleaning are essential.
LVP brings warmth and charm to living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and dining areas. Its wood-like design lends itself to open-concept floor plans and cozy interior styling.
Commercial Environments
LVT is often used in retail spaces, healthcare facilities, and office bathrooms thanks to its hard-wearing surface and resistance to spills, scratches, and foot traffic. LVP performs well in waiting rooms, hotel guest suites, boutique shops, and offices where a natural wood aesthetic is desired without the maintenance of real hardwood.
High-Moisture Areas
Both flooring types offer strong water resistance. However, LVT is generally better suited for wet zones due to its denser structure and natural compatibility with tile-inspired layouts. LVT is the better pick for areas where water and messes are concerned. At the same time, LVP excels in spaces where warmth, texture, and a hardwood appearance take priority.
How Much Does LVT and LVP Flooring Cost?
As mentioned, luxury vinyl flooring offers high-end style at a much more approachable price than other options. However, your final cost will depend on key factors, including product quality, installation method, and project size.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs you must consider for your project. Note that these are estimates, and the actual cost may vary. To get a quote and an accurate estimate of the cost, work with a trusted supplier near you.
Material Costs
LVT flooring typically ranges from $2 to $7 per square foot, depending on the brand, design, and wear layer thickness. High-end stone-look options with textured finishes may cost more. LVP flooring falls in a similar range per square foot but with wide planks and enhanced grain visuals at the higher end of the spectrum.
Installation Costs
Click-lock systems (common for LVT and LVP) are often DIY-friendly and may reduce labor expenses. In contrast, glue-down installations require more prep work and are best handled by professionals, ranging from $3 to $5 per square foot. Furthermore, loose-lay LVT or LVP offers easier removal and replacement, with installation costs falling somewhere in between.
Comparison to Other Flooring Options
- Hardwood: $8 to $15 per square foot (plus higher installation costs)
- Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: $6 to $12 per square foot, not including grout and labor
- Laminate: $1.50 to $5 per square foot, though less water-resistant and less durable than LVT or LVP
LVT and LVP Flooring Installation: What You Need to Know
Both LVT and LVP flooring offer flexible installation methods, making them practical choices for a wide range of projects, from DIY home upgrades to professional commercial installations.
Here are the three most common installation methods contractors will use:
- Click-Lock (Floating Floor): Planks or tiles snap together and float over the subfloor which is ideal for quick, mess-free DIY installation.
- Glue-Down: This method secures each piece directly to the subfloor using adhesive. It is best for high-traffic or commercial spaces that require long-term stability.
- Loose Lay: This type uses a heavy, friction-backed design that stays in place without glue or locking edges. It is easy to install, remove, or replace individual pieces as needed.
Maintaining Your LVT and LVP Flooring
One of the standout benefits of LVT and LVP flooring is how easy they are to maintain. Here are a few tips to help you extend the usable life of these luxury flooring options:
- Routine Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop with a vinyl-safe cleaner. Avoid excessive water, which can seep into seams over time.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid bleach, ammonia, or abrasive scrubbing pads. Instead, use pH-neutral cleaning solutions.
- Use Floor Protectors: Place felt pads or glides under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
- Act Quickly on Spills: While LVT and LVP are water-resistant, it’s still best to clean up spills promptly to prevent discoloration and residue.
Design Options: LVT vs. LVP
Luxury vinyl flooring offers a design-forward solution that can elevate the look of any interior. LVT and LVP offer a wide range of visual styles, textures, and finishes, allowing you to tailor your space according to your preferred style and design.
LVT Design Options
- Slate, marble, and travertine finishes for a classic or upscale feel
- Textured surfaces that replicate natural stone
- Versatile shapes and sizes for grid or patterned layouts
Offerings from trusted suppliers, like Basic Components, include outstanding features, such as Verde Slate, Quarry Stone Autumn, and Tuscan Slate Moss, available in 35.54 sq. ft. cases.
LVP Design Options
- Wood-look finishes like oak, walnut, maple, and hickory
- Wide plank options for a modern, open feel
- Embossed textures to mimic real wood grain
- Natural color variations for added realism
Sustainability: Is LVT and LVP Environmentally Friendly?
Manufacturers have made tremendous strides to make luxury vinyl flooring more sustainable. Some products include recycled content, low-VOC materials, and more efficient manufacturing processes. Their durability and low maintenance help reduce long-term waste.
LVT Flooring FAQs
Which is better for high-traffic areas?
LVT and LVP perform well in high-traffic spaces, but LVP often has a slight edge due to its plank format and flexibility under pressure. LVT, however, is denser and ideal for heavy appliances and moisture-prone areas.
Can LVT be installed in bathrooms?
LVT is highly water-resistant and designed to handle humid, wet environments like bathrooms and laundry rooms.
What’s the price difference between LVT and LVP?
LVT vs. LVP flooring costs are generally comparable. Pricing depends more on product quality, thickness, and brand than the format itself.
Can I install LVT or LVP over existing floors?
Both flooring types can be installed over concrete, vinyl, or tile.
How long does luxury vinyl flooring last?
With proper installation and care, LVT and LVP flooring can last 15 to 25 years.
Which is Right for You: LVT or LVP?
We recommend LVT if you prefer a tile-like look, superior water resistance, and durability in kitchens or bathrooms. Opt for LVP if you want the warmth and texture of hardwood in living spaces or bedrooms.
Explore top-notch luxury vinyl flooring from Basic Components, a trusted source of quality materials that elevate any space effortlessly.
