What do you want from your flooring? As a homeowner, durability, affordability, and aesthetics are probably high on your list. Maybe you’re looking for something easy to care for, something with water-resistant qualities. Maybe it’s time to look at luxury vinyl plank flooring.

Here in Colorado, when people talk about flooring, hardwood is often a part of that picture. But now all homeowners are sold on using hardwood. It’s not right for every home.

Which is why more are turning to luxury vinyl.

If you’re still on the fence about whether luxury vinyl is the right choice, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. Like any investment in your home, you want to ensure that it lasts for years to come.

Not all luxury vinyl is created equal. In fact, the longevity and performance of your floors can vary depending on the quality and thickness of the product you select. So let’s walk through how to extend the life of your luxury vinyl plank floors and why investing in high-quality materials from reputable manufacturers is crucial for a lasting, beautiful result.

Why Choose Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors?

If you’ve done any research, luxury vinyl plank floors have popped onto your radar. They’ve become such a popular choice among homeowners for a variety of reasons.

• Durability: Luxury vinyl plank is engineered to handle heavy foot traffic and daily wear and tear, making it ideal for busy households, families with pets, or high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.
• Water resistance: Unlike traditional hardwood or laminate, LVP is water-resistant, which means it can handle spills and moisture without warping, making it perfect for bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.
• Realistic appearance: Luxury vinyl can mimic the look of natural materials like hardwood or stone while offering easier maintenance at a more affordable price.
• Comfort: LVP is softer underfoot compared to materials like tile or stone, providing a more comfortable surface to walk on.

Are you already seeing the possibilities? For many homeowners, it’s easy to see why LVP is a great choice. But to truly get the most out of your flooring, it’s essential to select high-quality materials. Here’s how to make sure you’re choosing the best luxury vinyl and what you can do to keep it in pristine condition.

Invest in Thicker, Higher-Quality Planks

Luxury vinyl planks are not created equal. But you have to know what to look for as you’re shopping. When it comes to luxury vinyl plank flooring, thickness matters. Higher-quality, thicker planks feel more substantial underfoot and also provide better durability over time. Thicker planks are less likely to show signs of wear, dent, or scratch, even in high-traffic areas.

That’s because thicker planks offer higher quality planks, which helps with stability, comfort, and longevity. Planks that are 5mm or thicker are generally considered more durable and resilient than thinner options.

In addition to the overall thickness, pay attention to the wear layer. This is the top layer that protects your floors from scratches, scuffs, and stains. Look for a wear layer of at least 12 mil for residential use, though 20 mil is recommended for areas with heavy foot traffic or homes with pets. A stronger wear layer means it will stand up to more abuse. That enhances the look and feel of your floors and also ensures they stand the test of time.

Choose a Reputable Manufacturer

As with any major home investment, quality can vary depending on the manufacturer. Selecting luxury vinyl plank from a trusted, reputable brand is key to ensuring you’re getting a product that will last.

High-quality manufacturers use better materials and production methods, resulting in more durable, visually appealing floors. They often back their products with longer warranties, which is a sign that they stand by the quality of their flooring.

When finalizing your decision, don’t just look for the lowest price. Make sure the brand you choose has a reputation for delivering consistent quality and durability. This will save you from headaches down the road and give you peace of mind knowing that your floors are built to last.

Regularly Clean and Maintain Your Floors

Once you’ve installed your luxury vinyl plank floors, regular maintenance is essential to keeping them in top shape. One of the advantages of LVP is how easy it is to clean, but a few key steps can help you protect your floors from wear and tear.

• Sweep and vacuum regularly: Dirt and debris can act like sandpaper, causing micro-scratches on the surface of your LVP. Be sure to sweep or vacuum your floors frequently, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Use a damp mop for cleaning: Avoid excessive water when cleaning. A slightly damp mop with a vinyl-friendly cleaning solution is all you need to maintain a clean and shiny floor.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of harsh cleaners like bleach or ammonia, which can damage the protective wear layer. Instead, opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaners designed specifically for vinyl floors. Have a question? Just ask. We can recommend safe cleaners that you’ll be happy to bring into your home.

Use Furniture Pads and Avoid Dragging Heavy Items

Heavy furniture and appliances can cause dents, scratches, and gouges in your luxury vinyl floors, especially if they’re moved around frequently. To avoid this type of damage, it’s essential to take precautions.

• Place furniture pads under chair legs, tables, and couches to prevent scratching and denting when items are moved.
• Use furniture sliders or a dolly when moving large items like refrigerators or washing machines to avoid dragging them across the floor.
• Choose area rugs for added protection in high-traffic areas, such as entryways or living rooms. Not only do rugs add style to your home, but they also help protect your floors from wear and tear. It’s a win/win!

Clean Spills Immediately

While luxury vinyl plank is water-resistant, it’s still important to clean up spills quickly to avoid potential damage. Over time, standing water or other liquids can seep into the seams and cause the adhesive to weaken, especially if the floors were not installed with a waterproof underlayment.

The good news is cleanup is easy with luxury vinyl.

Wipe up spills immediately using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Avoid letting liquid pool on the surface, especially near seams or edges where it could penetrate beneath the flooring.

That’s it! Easy, right?

Quickly addressing spills will prevent long-term damage and ensure your floors remain in great condition.

Consider Professional Installation

Although LVP is known for its ease of installation, professional installation can help ensure your floors are installed correctly, especially if you’re covering a large area or dealing with tricky spaces. An experienced installer will make sure the planks are cut and fitted properly, preventing gaps or misalignment that can reduce the lifespan of your floors.

Professional installation ensures precision. An expert will know how to handle uneven subfloors, tricky corners, and transitions between rooms. This attention to detail can greatly affect how well your floors perform over time.

Choosing Luxury Vinyl for Long-Lasting Floors

Are you sold on luxury vinyl plank? If so, you can join the ranks of happy homeowners who have added it to their homes.

Luxury vinyl plank floors offer a perfect blend of style, durability, and affordability. Plus, they look good in any room in your home.

Ready to take the next step in choosing the perfect luxury vinyl for your home? We’re here to help guide you through the process, ensuring you select the best product for your needs and lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about our selection of high-quality luxury vinyl flooring!