LVT Flooring for Commercial Use: Everything You Need to Know
When you’re looking for flooring for your business, there are many things to consider. You want something that will be durable and long lasting, that will look great, and will be easy to maintain. Luxury vinyl tile or LVT flooring is a great option for commercial use, and in this guide by the Virgin Carpets and Flooring team we’ll go over you everything you need to know about it.
Why Choose Commercial LVT?
As a business owner, LVT flooring can be a great fit for your commercial space for a number of reasons. Let’s just touch upon some of these benefits.
Durability
LVT flooring is designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it a great choice for high traffic areas and heavy foot traffic. Many brands offer warranties of 20 years or more, so you can be sure your investment will last.
Easy Maintenance
Unlike other types of flooring, maintaining and cleaning commercial LVT flooring is a breeze. Simply sweep or vacuum it regularly to keep it looking clean and new. You don’t need to worry about waxing, polishing, or expensive cleaners either. All it takes to clean LVT are some soap, water, and a damp mop.
Style Options
Luxury vinyl flooring can effectively replicate the look of natural stone, ceramic tile, and wood planks. That means you can give your commercial space or business a high-end, elegant look without the price tag that comes with real tile or hardwood. Since LVT comes in a huge range of styles and patterns, you’re sure to find something that fits your space perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a traditional wood look or something more modern, there are LVT options available.
Affordable
LVT flooring is usually more budget friendly than other types of flooring, making it a great option for businesses on a budget.
Water Resistant
LVT flooring can be water resistant, making it ideal for businesses that are looking for an easy to clean and low maintenance option. For restaurants, cafes, or other businesses that may have spills, LVT is a great option since it won’t be damaged by water.
Choosing the Right Type of LVT Flooring for Your Business
Not all LVT flooring is created equal. There are different types and grades of LVT, and it’s important to choose the right one for your commercial property.
LVT Flooring Type
The three main types of LVT are:
- Solid vinyl core (SVC)
- Composite core (COREtec)
- Stone plastic composite (SPC)
So, what’s the difference? SVC is the most basic type of LVT and is made from a solid layer of vinyl. COREtec is a more premium product and has a composite core made from recycled wood and plastic. SPC is the most durable type of LVT and has a stone plastic composite core.
What’s the best LVT type for your commercial property? It depends on your needs and budget. SVC is the most affordable, but it’s also the least durable. COREtec is more expensive but will last longer. SPC is the most expensive but is also the most durable.
LVT Flooring Grade
LVT comes in different grades, from residential to commercial. You will only want to select an LVT flooring product that is commercial grade. This means it’s designed to withstand the heavy foot traffic that is common in commercial spaces. You don’t want your flooring to start showing wear and tear after just a few months, so make sure you choose a product that is built to last.
Plank or Tile?
There are two main types of vinyl flooring: luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Luxury plank is designed to look like wood, while luxury tile has a stone or ceramic appearance. The type you choose will depend on the style of your business and your personal preferences.
LVT Thickness
The thickness of your LVT flooring is important for both durability and comfort. A thicker LVT will be more durable and last longer, but it may be less comfortable to stand on for long periods of time. You’ll want to strike a balance between the two when choosing the thickness of your LVT.
Installation
Commercial vinyl flooring can be installed in a number of ways. The most common method is glue down, but you can also choose from glue down, floating, loose lay, or click and lock.
- Glue Down: This is the most common type of installation for commercial vinyl flooring. Glue down LVT has a layer of adhesive that is applied to the subfloor, and then the LVT planks or tiles are glued to the adhesive. This type of installation is very durable and can last for many years.
- Floating: Floating LVT does not require any adhesive and can be installed over most types of existing flooring. The planks or tiles are interlocked together and “float” over the subfloor. This type of installation is less durable than glue down, but it’s much easier to install.
- Loose Lay: Loose lay LVT does not require any adhesive and can be installed directly over an existing floor. The planks or tiles are interlocked together, but they are not attached to the subfloor. This type of installation is the easiest to install but is also the least durable.
- Click and Lock: Click and lock LVT has a locking system that allows the planks or tiles to click together without the need for adhesive. This type of installation is easy to install and can be done by a do-it-yourselfer.
Why does installation type matter? Different installation methods have different benefits. Glue down is the most durable, but it’s also the most difficult to install. Floating is easy to install but isn’t as durable. Loose lay is somewhere in between and is a good compromise if you’re not sure which method to choose.
Do I Need a Professional to Install My LVT Commercial Flooring?
Your commercial property represents your business and your brand, so your flooring means more than just function. It needs to look professional – it’s helping to sell you! That’s why we recommend working with a professional flooring contractor who has experience installing LVT flooring in commercial spaces.
A professional installer will have the tools and knowledge necessary to install your LVT quickly and efficiently. That ensures you can get back to work more quickly. They’ll also be able to answer any questions you have about the installation process or the products being used.
Additionally, you want to make sure your flooring investment pays off. Hiring a professional will ensure your flooring is installed correctly and will last for many years.
Virgin Carpets and Flooring is Your Resource for Commercial Vinyl Flooring!
At Virgin Carpets and Flooring, we’ve been installing LVT commercial flooring in the greater Pittsburgh area and western Pennsylvania for decades. We’re experts in the installation of all types of LVT flooring and can help you choose the right flooring product for your business.
We understand that your time is valuable, so we’ll work quickly and efficiently to get your new flooring installed with minimal disruption to your business. And because we’re a local Pittsburgh company, we can provide you with the personal service you deserve!
If you’re ready to install LVT flooring in your commercial space, give us a call today 412-653-3424, fill out our online form, or stop by our showroom! We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you find the perfect product for your business.