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The Knowledge Base

The Ultimate LVP Guide

20 years of flooring knowledge dumped onto one page. 20 Facts. 20 Questions. Zero fluff.

20 Rapid-Fire Facts

Everything you assume about flooring might be wrong. Here is the truth about Luxury Vinyl Plank.

1. Not "Linoleum"

Linoleum is linseed oil. LVP is PVC/SPC layers. Totally different tech.

2. 100% Waterproof

SPC cores won't swell. You can submerge a plank for a week and it won't change.

3. Wear Layer Matters

Total thickness matters less than the "Wear Layer". 20mil is the commercial standard.

4. Sun Fades It

Like anything else, direct UV rays can fade LVP over years. Use blinds.

5. Acclimation

Skipping the 48-72 hour acclimation is the #1 cause of failure.

6. No Heavy Cabinets

Floating floors need to move. Heavy cabinets pin them down, causing buckles.

7. SPC vs WPC

SPC (Stone Polymer) is harder and more dent-resistant than WPC (Wood Polymer).

8. Subfloor is King

LVP "telegraphs" bumps. Subfloor must be flat within 3/16" over 10ft.

9. It's Quieter

Attached acoustic pads dampen foot traffic noise better than hardwood.

10. Not Scratch Proof

It resists scratches, but dragging a fridge will still gouge it. Use sliders.

11. Phthalate-Free

Quality LVP (FloorScore certified) is free from harmful VOCs.

12. Basement Hero

Inorganic materials won't grow mold or warp in damp basements.

13. Delicate Install

One broken locking mechanism during install ruins the whole plank.

14. Real Texture

High-end LVP uses "Embossed in Register" (EIR) to match texture to grain.

15. Easy Repair

A pro can replace a single damaged plank without redoing the whole floor.

16. Resale Value

High-end LVP is now preferred over damaged hardwood in many markets.

17. No Underlayment

Most LVP has pad attached. Adding extra soft padding breaks the locks.

18. Tricky Stairs

Stairs require special "bullnose" molding and high skill to look good.

19. 40% Cheaper

On average, LVP costs 40% less than installed hardwood.

20. 20+ Years

A 20mil floor can easily last 20-25 years with proper care.

20 Questions Answered

You asked Google. Now a pro installer is answering.

Yes, usually. However, if your grout lines are deep or wide, the LVP will eventually sag into them (telegraphing). We skim coat the tile first to smooth it out.
Cheap LVP might be. We only use FloorScore Certified brands (like Engineered Floors, Coretec) that are tested for indoor air quality.
No. Never. Steam mops force moisture and heat into the joints, causing warping. It voids your warranty instantly.
We recommend at least 5mm-6.5mm total thickness. Anything thinner (3-4mm) has weak locks that break easily.
No, it stays closer to room temperature than tile or stone, making it warmer underfoot in winter.
Yes, unlike glue-down floors, you can furnish floating LVP immediately. Just use felt pads!
It measures the clear protective coating. 12mil is okay for light use. 20mil is the gold standard for active homes.
Maybe. Extreme temp swings (-20 to +100) can cause issues. Check the brand's spec sheet first.
Ideally, yes. It looks cleaner. Alternatively, we can install "quarter round" molding to cover the gap.
It can be. Look for a floor with a textured grain (EIR). Smooth, high-gloss floors are slip-n-slides.
No. Floating floors need to float. Pinching them under heavy cabinets prevents expansion, leading to buckling.
Heavy rolling loads stress locking mechanisms. We recommend a Glue-Down LVP option for wheelchair accessibility.
Very flat. Standard is 3/16th inch over 10 feet. Dips need leveling compound.
Yes, but avoid rubber-backed rugs as they can stain vinyl yellow. Use felt or non-staining backings.
It maintains value better than old carpet. High-end LVP is now widely accepted in modern appraisals.
Vacuum (no beater bar). Mop with pH-neutral vinyl cleaner. Avoid wax, polish, or oil soaps.
Most SPC is approved for water radiant heat (max 85°F). Electric mats are trickier—check manuals.
Usually means uneven subfloor. The plank bends into a dip, causing the lock to rub.
Yes! A pro can cut out the damaged board and adhere a new one without redoing the room.
A living room can be done in a day. A whole house (1500 sq ft) takes 3-5 days.

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