LVT Flooring VS Stone Flooring: Which is better?

Merino Laminates, January 11, 2022 Updated On : September 18, 2023

Stone flooring has been trending in the market for years and has established itself strongly among buyers. Even though it is a popular flooring option, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) also comes with a unique set of advantages. Only when we compare LVT and natural stone flooring, we notice that there is a huge difference between the two options. Vinyl tiles are a beautiful, modern, affordable and effective flooring option as compared to stone flooring.

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What Is Luxury Vinyl Tile?

LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. LVT flooring is a type of synthetic flooring material that is designed to mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood, stone, or tile. It is a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces due to its versatility and numerous benefits.

The choice between LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring and stone flooring depends on various factors, including your preferences, budget, and the specific needs of the space where you plan to install the flooring.

Types of LVT:

Glue-Down LVT – This involves attaching individual LVT tiles or planks to the subfloor with the use of a strong glue. Merino Prime Tile is a highly realistic, versatile and eco-friendly LVT flooring. It comes with the finest designs featuring wood, stone and design lines.

Click and Lock LVT – Click and lock LVT features interlocking edges that fit together without the need for adhesive. Merino Ecoclick is a proven Click LVT for heavy commercial and residential installation with its unique structure of unparalleled dimensional stability and patented click joint system, ‘Click’n go and Drop’n go!

Peel-and-Stick LVT – Peel-and-stick LVT has a self-adhesive backing, allowing you to peel off a protective film and stick the tiles or planks directly to the subfloor. Merino Ecolay+ is a proven loose-lay system with a framework that offers unmatched dimensional stability, a variety of styles, and size possibilities for heavy commercial and residential installations. Just lay; don’t stick or click.

LVT Flooring:

Cost – LVT is generally more budget-friendly than natural stone flooring options. It provides a cost-effective way to achieve the look of stone without the high price tag.

Durability – LVT is highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and dents. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it suitable for both residential and commercial use.

Maintenance – LVT is relatively low-maintenance. It requires regular sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming and occasional spot cleaning. It doesn’t need sealing or polishing like natural stone.

Comfort – LVT is softer and warmer underfoot compared to natural stone, which can be cold and hard. This makes it more comfortable for walking and standing, especially in areas like kitchens.

Design Options – LVT offers a wide range of design options, including various colours, patterns, and styles that mimic the look of natural stone, wood, and other materials. It allows for greater customization to match your interior decor.

Installation – LVT is typically easier to install than natural stone, especially for DIY projects. It can be glued down, clicked together as a floating floor, or installed using peel-and-stick adhesive.

Stone Flooring:

Aesthetics – Natural stone flooring, such as marble, granite, slate, or travertine, offers a unique and timeless beauty that’s difficult to replicate. It can add a luxurious and elegant look to your space.

Durability – Stone is exceptionally durable and can last for generations with proper care. It is resistant to wear and tear and can handle heavy traffic.

Maintenance – While stone is durable, it does require more maintenance than LVT. Depending on the type of stone, it may need periodic sealing to protect against stains and moisture absorption. It can also be susceptible to scratching.

Coolness – Stone flooring can be cold to the touch, which may be uncomfortable in colder climates or during the winter months. Radiant heating systems can mitigate this issue.

Cost – Natural stone is generally more expensive than LVT both in terms of material cost and installation. It’s considered a premium flooring option.

Why Merino LVT Flooring?

With Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) for both residential and commercial applications, Merino offers one of the most cutting-edge and robust flooring options. LVT flooring is perfect for damp areas because of the tough material that makes up its construction. Also, Merino LVT is highly water resistant, easy to maintain and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. With its blend of strength and elegance, the cutting-edge line brings flooring to life. Strong aesthetic coherence is achieved through painstaking duplication of LVT flooring designs and patterns.

FAQs

How often does LVT need to be replaced?

Answer: The lifespan of LVT flooring can vary depending on factors like the quality of the product, the installation, and the level of foot traffic it experiences. On average, high-quality LVT flooring can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more. Some manufacturers may offer warranties that range from 15 to 25 years, which can give you an idea of the expected longevity.

What are the facts about LVT flooring?

Answer: LVT is a synthetic flooring material that replicates the look and texture of natural materials like wood, stone, or tile.

It is available in a wide range of colours, patterns, and styles, allowing for customization to suit your décor.

It is known for being water-resistant and highly durable, making it suitable for various areas in your home, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.

What can you not use on LVT flooring?

Answer: While LVT is durable, it is not impervious to damage. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface.

Harsh chemicals, like bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, should also be avoided, as they can discolour or damage the finish.

Sharp or heavy objects can potentially dent or gouge the surface.

Is LVT completely waterproof?

Answer: While LVT is highly water-resistant, it is not completely waterproof. Prolonged exposure to standing water, especially along seams or edges, can potentially lead to damage over time. It’s essential to promptly clean up spills and avoid submerging LVT in water.

Is LVT water-resistant?

Answer: LVT flooring is considered water-resistant, which means it can withstand water exposure to a certain extent without sustaining damage. This makes it a suitable choice for areas prone to spills and moisture.