Choosing the right flooring for a room is never easy, but this list of vinyl plank pros and cons makes the decision easier. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is an excellent flooring choice for most rooms with a few notable drawbacks that may remove it from the list.
Reviewing LVP reviews is a good way to start researching this durable floor, but it only gives a brief snapshot into the pros and cons of luxury vinyl flooring. This is a quick list of luxury vinyl plank pros and cons:
Luxury vinyl plank flooring pros
Easy-to-clean
Easy-to-install
Incredibly durable
Water-resistant
Affordable
Looks just like wood floors
Comes in a variety of colors that match any home décor
Great floor for homes with pets
Great for homes with allergy sufferers
Durable enough for commercial spaces
Luxury vinyl plank flooring cons
May have damage from rooms with extreme temperatures
Prone to fading
Doesn’t add value like hardwood floors
Can be scratched or punctured by sharp objects
Fortunately, the list of luxury vinyl plank pros outnumber the cons by two to one, making it a viable option for any room—or at least worth viewing in person.
Pro: Vinyl floors are water resistant.
One of the top pros of luxury vinyl plank floors is its resistance to water, which makes it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. Wood floors can be warped and stained by standing water, while LVP can withstand puddles and splashes. The water resistance of LVP floors also makes it a top flooring option for basements, where moisture in the slab can damage wood flooring.
This makes LVP a great flooring option for homeowners who want the look of wood floors without the risk of damage. Some LVP products are guaranteed waterproof; ask a flooring pro to see vinyl products for high-moisture rooms.
Pro: The best luxury vinyl plank floors look like real wood floors.
Modern luxury vinyl flooring products closely resemble hardwood floors. In some cases, the likeness is so strong that guests won’t be able to tell. LVP floors now come in a variety of colors, grains, and widths that resemble wood floors. Luxury vinyl floors can also come in styles that resemble stone and tile (luxury vinyl tile).
Con: LVP floors don’t add value to the home like wood does.
Wood floors can increase the value of a home because they are a popular flooring choice among homeowners. While adding a similar look, luxury vinyl flooring does not add any value to the home value.
Pro: Luxury vinyl plank floors are easy-to-clean.
In terms of floor care, luxury vinyl plank floors are extremely easy. LVP floors require only a regular sweep or vacuum and an occasional dry mop. Spills are easily cleaned up with a rag and LVP floor cleaner.">
Pro: Vinyl plank floors can be installed easily.
LVP floors are like a puzzle with each piece being snapped together. These luxury vinyl plank floors can be glued down or installed as a floating floor. Either way, luxury vinyl floors are easy to install with these DIY flooring installation tips.
Con: LVP flooring can be prone to fading.
Unfortunately, bright sunlight can fade vinyl flooring over time, especially if an area rug is obstructing part of the floor. Fading can be prevented by choosing window treatments that block harmful rays (some windows with low-e glass can do the same) and by moving rugs and furniture on a regular basis.
Pro: LVP floors come in a variety of colors that match any décor.
luxury vinyl plank floor colors in showroomVinyl floors have come a long way over the years. The flooring is now available in a variety of colors and styles that coordinate with existing décor.
Pro: Luxury vinyl floors are durable.
LVP floors are extremely durable, making them an excellent floor option for high-traffic areas. These floors can be installed in hallways, mudrooms, living rooms, and game rooms. If the room is near an exterior door, the floors can extend to the doorway without worrying about spill clean-up and tracked-in water.
Con: Vinyl plank floors are not always suitable for freezing cold rooms.
In this area, luxury vinyl floors have come a long way. One luxury vinyl plank product even boasts a temperature tolerance between 25 and 155 degrees. Unfortunately, this does eliminate some runs that get freezing cold, such as sunrooms, porches, and patios.
Pro: Luxury vinyl is a great fit for homes with pets.
LVP floors definitely fall into the category of pet-friendly flooring. Homeowners with dogs and cats don’t need to worry about damage from pet paws (with the exception of punctures from extremely long nails) or about clean-up from an occasional pet accident.
Pro: It’s a great floor for homes with allergy sufferers.
Luxury vinyl floors are a hard floor that can easily be cleaned in homes with allergy sufferers. To completely remove allergens, regularly vacuum or mop the floor and select a vacuum with a HEPA filter. (For additional cleaning tips, use this house cleaning checklist for allergy sufferers.)
Con: LVP Floors can be scratched or punctured by sharp objects.
In addition to fading, luxury vinyl floors are prone to scratches and punctures. There are a few ways to prevent damage. Felt pads on furniture and heavy objects can keep scratches and holes away. Pet claws can be trimmed to prevent holes. Cardboard placed under furniture and heavy objects during moving is another preventative measure that keeps vinyl floors looking great.
Pro: Some luxury vinyl floors are durable enough for commercial use.
Many LVP products are tough enough to handle the heavy foot (and paw) traffic of a business. These floors give commercial buildings an upscale look and all the benefits of a durable, water-resistant floor.
Pro: LVP floors are incredibly affordable.
In addition to durable and water-resistant, luxury vinyl plank floors are also an affordable flooring option. LVP flooring is typically less expensive than hardwood floors and usually comparable to many laminate flooring products. (Homeowners should visit a local flooring store to select the right LVP product and get a quote.)
