Top 5 LVP FAQS
More and more varieties of the ever-popular LVP develop by the day. With so many brands, types, and colors, it can be confusing to understand which product does what. On top of that, some of your most common questions seemingly get swept under the rug in favor of even more information. That’s why today, we’re answering the top five most commonly asked questions when it comes to LVP.
Question 1: What is a floating floor?
A floating floor refers to LVP that is installed directly over another layer of floor (i.e., LVP over sheet vinyl). This installation usually involves planks that already have padding attached to the back of them, which eliminates the need for separate rolls of pad.
The alternative to a floating floor is a glue down. This installation involves planks that are specifically made to be glued down. They’re significantly thinner than regular planks, and do not have pad on the back. There is no separate pad to put down either- so the subfloor should be even and smooth for a comfortable, level surface once the planks are glued.
Question 2: Can I put LVP over ceramic tile?
Yes! For proper installation, the tiles should be skim coated with patch first. This fills in the grout lines to even out the surface. If this wasn’t done and someone went to put furniture on the LVP, something like a chair leg could end up over the dip where the grout lines were and cause the LVP to crack. Therefore, it is a vital safety step to make sure the tiles are skim coated before any LVP is installed over top.
Question 3: Can I move furniture on LVP?
Yes. After installation, it is safe to move your furniture around. However, be mindful of the fact that not all LVPs are made the same and some scratch much easier than others. We always use and recommend furniture sliders under heavy pieces to prevent nicks and scratches.
Question 4: Is it safe for kitchens?
Not always. It is imperative that you read the information listed about the product you’re interested in. Some LVPs are marked “water resistant” while others are marked “waterproof”. This makes a huge difference in durability! Water resistant means that the floor is capable of handling small instances of light spills, and things like wet umbrellas in an entranceway. Waterproof on the other hand, can handle much larger spills, and things like an overflowed sink.
However, neither floor is capable of handling floods or excessive amounts of water. Both still have the potential to warp and mold from too much water, it’s just that waterproof LVPs have a higher tolerance than water resistant LVPs.
We only recommend floors marked waterproof for kitchens, baths, and basements.
Question 5: How do I clean it?
This depends. Our general recommendation is damp rags for immediate spills, and Swiffer mops for regular maintenance. Many manufacturers make their own line of cleaning products that can be used for your specific floor as well. As always, pay attention to the manufacturer instructions included in your material boxes. This will give you important insight into your warranty conditions, what you can and can’t use on your specific floor, and where to find more information.
Steam cleaning is also acceptable. However, like any cleaning method, you should never oversaturate the floor with water and moisture, even if it’s marked waterproof.