How do luxury vinyl plank and luxury vinyl tile differ?

The cuts are the most obvious difference. They're both luxury vinyl flooring. Luxury planks look like hardwood boards, while luxury vinyl tile (LVT) resembles tile or stone. Both are completely waterproof and durable.

What is luxury vinyl plank flooring (LVP)?

Before that is answered, there needs to be an explanation of luxury vinyl itself because both LVP and LVT come down to style, not construction, differences. LVF has a remarkably realistic resemblance to wood, tile, or stone. The images are taken with 3D photography and digital printing, so they're clear and vibrant. You'll see every knot, grain and swirl, veining variation, and vibrant color. The material is deeply embossed to add depth and dimension, as well as textured appearances, such as wire-brushed, hand-scraped, weathered, and distressed. It is available in matte, gloss, and high-gloss colors.

Vinyl planks are made by cutting the vinyl into strips and then mounting them on boards. LVT is cut into square, groutable tile-sized pieces. The extra seams dramatically increase the realism, say many. Some go so far as to use grout with the tile pieces.

All vinyl is available in thicknesses ranging from 8-mm to 12-mm. The thicker, the better. It's recommended for the vinyl plank to go as high as 10-mm or 12-mm for an authentic hardwood feeling.

Is one better than the other?

No, it is a matter of style. Besides being waterproof, they are durable with a top transparent melamine wear layer that protects the floor from scratches and scuffs.
The wear layer should measure at least 20 mils. They are also easy to clean with just a regular sweeping and periodic mopping with a manufacturer-approved cleaner. Installation is the fast and uncomplicated floating floor: Pieces click together and hover over the subfloor.

For more information about luxury vinyl plank or tile, visit the First American Carpet showroom in Woodbridge or Stafford, VA. In Woodbridge, Stafford, Triangle, Fredericksburg, Lorton, Manassas, Dumfries, Lake Ridge, VA, residents can come in for inspiration and a free quote.