How to Evaluate the Durability of LVT Flooring: Factors to Consider for Long-Lasting Beauty
Luxury LVT Flooring (LVT) is a flooring material that is gaining in popularity. It is a durable, affordable alternative to natural stone and hardwood floors, that looks beautiful and requires very little maintenance. It is also water-resistant, so it can be used in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. However, there are some things you should know about this product before you purchase it.
Real wood, stone, or tile
Unlike natural materials, which require extensive care and renovation to retain their appearance, LVT is designed to last for years to come. It is extremely strong, and resists stains, scratches, scuffs, and chemicals. It also withstands heavy foot traffic, and is easy to clean, making it a smart choice for busy homes. It can be installed in a wide range of patterns and colors, and even replicates the look of real wood, stone, or tile.
Durability and strength
In order to ensure that the flooring lasts as long as possible, it is important to understand how it is made. There are several processes involved in the manufacture of this type of product, which include calendering, lamination, embossing, and inspection. The first step involves using a series of heated rollers to "roll" or squeeze the individual components of the flooring together into a single sheet. These rollers can be adjusted to produce different thicknesses of the sheet, and this is one of the ways that the durability and strength of the flooring is improved.
Calendering process
After the calendering process is complete, the layer is then sent to the lamination area, where it is bonded with other layers of plastic. Once the laminated layer is cured, it is then sent to the embossing section, where it can be etched or imprinted with a design. This is one of the most important steps in the manufacturing process, because it is how the floor will appear once it is installed. If the laminated layer is embossed, it will create a textured surface that can help prevent slipping and add to the aesthetic of the flooring.
Clear wear layer
The final step in the production of LVT is a clear wear layer, which protects the other layers from damage and improves its overall performance. This layer is usually coated with a colorless urethane that will make the surface of the flooring resistant to scuffing, staining, and scratching. It is also often formulated with anti-static ingredients, which will help to reduce the buildup of static electricity in rooms where the flooring is installed.
Varying levels of quality and style
There are a number of companies that manufacture this type of flooring, and they all offer varying levels of quality and style. The cheaper products you'll find in big box stores can look and perform cheaply, but the better brands will have a higher 3D effect, a thicker top layer, superior geometry, and tight tolerances.
Feature micro-beveled edges and realistic graining
A good example of a manufacturer that produces high-quality LVT Flooring is Mannington, which offers its popular Adura and Distinctive lines. These products are available in full 6 x 48-inch planks, and they feature micro-beveled edges and realistic graining. They also have a 20 mil wear layer, which is twice as thick as the products you'll see in big box stores, and they have a urethane top coat that is factory-applied to provide protection against scuffs, scratches, stains, and chemical damage.
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