Home Improvement

What is the Difference Between Tile and Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring?

When you are looking to choose the right flooring for your house, two of the most popular choices available are tile and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Each is strongest, goes well with a lot of other spaces, and is wide with many styles available. However, they differ in terms of the material used, installation, cost and maintenance.

If you wish to remodel and you are in the market for a reliable residential flooring installer Largo, then it is important to know these differences before making any decision. Davana Floors offers professional tile and LVP installation and advice for St. Petersburg, Florida and assists homeowners in determining what will work best for their lifestyle and budget.

What Is Tile Flooring?

Tile floors are made of clay, stone, or other stuff from the earth. They last a long time. They do not get hurt by water. They are suitable for rooms that get wet, like baths and kitchens. They are used in many homes in hot places like Florida since they stay cool. That feels nice when the days are warm.  

One big plus of tile is how tough it is. Heavy things, pets, or lots of feet do not hurt it. It will not get bumps or marks. But tile feels hard and cold on your feet, and some may not like that in each room. To put it down takes more skill and time, and the cost at first is more than some other floors.  

What is the LVP floor?

LVP, short for Luxury Vinyl Plank, is made by man, not from earth. It looks like wood but is made of lots of flat layers. Its core will not let in water, so it is smart for wet rooms like baths, kitchens, or below ground.  

LVP is not as hard as tile. It feels soft and keeps some warmth, so your feet do not feel as cold. You can put it down much faster and with less help since you can snap it in place and do not need glue or grout. This is great if your cash is tight or if you want to do it on your own. LVP fights marks and bumps well, but not as good as tile if you have many feet on it each day.

Style and Design Options

The flooring of tile and luxury vinyl plank (LVP) comes in many colors, textures, and patterns. Tile has more design opportunities in terms of shapes and mosaics and LVP imitates the image of wood or stone and that makes the environment great and easy to maintain. Increases in printing technology make LVP look very much like hardwood or ceramic tile finishes.

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Cost and Installation

In terms of cost, LVP is typically cheap even in terms of both material as well as installation due to the fact that it can usually be laid over existing floor. Installation of tiles is more complicated and can take skilled labor intensifying the cost.

Maintenance and Durability

Tile is very long-lasting and can last several decades but grout lines have to be fixed. LVP is also durable and needs only sweeping and mopping as maintenance. Select tiles for durability and classic appearance or LVP where you need to save your money and have a fast installation. 

Final Thoughts

So, tile or luxury vinyl plank – which one is right for you? In this instance, if you are looking for something ultra-durable and timeless, tile might be the answer. For affordability, comfort and easy installation, LVP could be the solution you have been looking for.

Use a professional contractor for the best results for any flooring you may choose!

Sally B. Unger
the authorSally B. Unger