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Why Choose Rigid Core LVT Flooring
Rigid core luxury vinyl tile (LVT) is a type of LVT that is made with a rigid core layer, typically made of a composite material such as stone polymer or wood polymer, sandwiched between two layers of vinyl. Rigid core luxury vinyl click tiles, also known as "floating" or "interlocking" LVT, is designed to be installed without the use of adhesive. The rigid core provides several benefits:
- Durability: The rigid core layer provides added strength and stability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and busy homes.
- Versatility: Rigid core LVT can be installed over various subfloors, including concrete, ceramic tile, and even existing stuck down vinyl flooring, which makes it a great option for renovations or remodels.
- Comfort: Some rigid core LVT products have a built-in underlayment that provides added cushioning, making the flooring more comfortable to walk on and reducing the impact of foot traffic.
- Waterproof: Rigid core LVT flooring is waterproof, which makes them suitable for high-moisture areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Rigid Core and Flexible Core: Is There a Difference?
Rigid core LVT has a rigid core layer, typically made of a composite material such as stone polymer or wood polymer, sandwiched between two layers of vinyl. On the other hand, flexible core LVT has a core layer made of a more flexible material, such as PVC. Rigid core provides the tile with added strength and stability to disguise a less perfect subfloor, in fact if the floor does not deviate more than 5mm in a 2m radius no subfloor preparation is required. Rigid Core floors can also be laid directly onto ceramic tiles with grout as long as the grout does not exceed 5mm wide. Flexible core products required a smoother subfloor that do not deviate more than 3mm in a 2m radius, due to the fact they are more pliable and can show undulations through the board. Both types, however, are exceptionally versatile as they can be installed over various types of subfloors.
What Rooms are Suitable for Rigid Core LVT Floors?
Rigid core luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring is well-suited for a variety of rooms and settings due to its durability and water resistance, some of the most common rooms that are best suited to rigid core LVT flooring include:
- High-traffic areas: Such as hallways, entryways, and living rooms. The rigid core provides added strength and stability, making it suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Bathrooms and kitchens: The water-resistant properties of rigid core LVT make it suitable for high-moisture areas.
- Garages, basements and attics: The water-resistant and sound insulation properties of rigid core LVT make it suitable for basement spaces, where moisture and sound are common issues.
Find out more information on rigid core luxury vinyl suitability by reading our LVT Room Suitability Guide.
Rigid Core Flooring Installation and Maintenance
Our rigid core LVT is installed simply by using the locking mechanism of each plank to click them together. Underlay is required however, a lot of the Rigid Core floors have an inbuilt underlay, you simply need to ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. If there are any cracks, holes, or uneven areas, they should be repaired before installation.
Keeping rigid core LVT looking good as new is easy too. Simply give the floor a regular sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and dust and when deep cleaning and avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals, which can damage the surface.
With all the types of rigid core luxury vinyl, it can be hard to choose which style to choose, so to help try our room visualiser tool to find the best fit for your room. And you can even order samples to see it in person.
