The kitchen: a bustling hub of activity, laughter, shared meals, and memories. For many families, the kitchen isn’t just a place to cook; it’s the heart of the home. This is where loved ones gather, share their day, and bond over culinary adventures. With so much happening in this one room, the floor beneath your feet becomes an integral part of your daily life. It needs to be strong, resilient, and stand up to the constant use and occasional chaos that is inherent in family living.
What Makes LVT Suitable For The Kitchen
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is becoming an increasingly popular choice for kitchen flooring, and for good reason. Let’s explore what makes it so suitable:
- Composition: LVT is crafted with precision, often including an optional SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) core that makes the floor incredibly strong. The wear layer on top ensures water resistance, protecting the floor from everyday kitchen mishaps.
- Protection and Durability: LVT is built to withstand splashing, spills, leaks, and humidity. It’s resistant to stains and has a slightly textured surface that prevents slips. What’s more, it’s incredibly durable, promising a long lifespan without losing its charm.
- Easy Maintenance: This flooring is a dream for busy homeowners. Easy to clean and care for, it doesn’t demand ongoing maintenance.
- Affordability and Style: Compared to engineered wood flooring, LVT is a more budget-friendly option. Plus, with styles ranging from tile, plank, to herringbone, there’s something to suit every taste.
- Comfort: It’s not just about looks; LVT feels cosy underfoot, especially when paired with an underlay.
How to Choose The Right LVT, What To Lookout For
Choosing the right LVT for your kitchen requires some careful consideration. Here’s what to look out for:
- Core Type: When it comes to core selection, you’ll often come across terms like SPC, WPC, or PVC. An SPC core is typically the strongest and most suitable for kitchens.
- Wear Layer Thickness: Opt for a wear layer of 0.5mm or 0.7mm over 0.3mm. A thicker layer offers better protection against wear and tear.
- Installation: Click fit installation ensures a tight fit, essential for preventing water damage.
- Design Choices: Think about what style will best suit your space. From tile and plank to herringbone, and colours like grey or natural, the possibilities are vast.
Caring for Kitchen LVT
Maintaining the beauty of LVT in your kitchen is a breeze. Here’s how:
- Basic Cleaning: A simple brush and mop routine will leave your floor looking brand new. With no need for special cleaning products or intensive scrubbing, LVT keeps its shine with minimal effort.
- Weekly Care: A weekly wipe-down with a mop or some antibacterial wipes is all it takes to refresh the surface and restore that ‘new floor shine.’ Consider using scented wipes to add a pleasant aroma to the room.
Alternatives to LVT In The Kitchen
Though LVT is a standout choice for many, there are alternatives worth considering. One such option is engineered wood flooring for the kitchen:
- Composition: Engineered wood flooring comes with a wear layer up to 6mm thick and often includes a UV Lacquered finish, enhancing its suitability for the kitchen.
- Why it’s Suitable: The construction of engineered wood flooring provides strength and resilience, making it suitable for kitchen use. However, it’s worth noting that the price may be significantly higher compared to LVT.
Conclusion
Your kitchen deserves a floor that can keep pace with the hustle and bustle of family life. LVT stands out as a stress-free, versatile, and cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on style or functionality. From its durable composition with optional SPC cores to its resistance to common kitchen mishaps, LVT is designed to perform.
If you’re looking for an alternative, engineered wood flooring is worth considering, but bear in mind the cost difference. In the end, the choice is yours, and either way, you’ll be investing in a floor that adds both value and charm to the heart of your home.
For more insights into LVT and other flooring options, explore our blogs on embracing simplicity with plank luxury vinyl flooring, understanding how LVT is made, and the benefits of luxury vinyl flooring in kitchens.
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FAQ
What Makes Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) Suitable for Kitchen Flooring?
LVT is crafted with precision and includes an optional SPC core that makes the floor incredibly strong. The wear layer on top ensures water resistance, and its resistance to spills, stains, and slips makes it a durable option. Additionally, LVT is affordable, stylish, and feels cosy underfoot.
How Does the Composition of LVT Contribute to Its Strength?
The composition of LVT often includes an SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) core, enhancing its strength. The wear layer, which is typically 0.5mm or 0.7mm thick, adds to its water resistance and durability, making it well-suited for everyday kitchen use.
What Core Type is Most Suitable for Kitchen LVT?
When selecting LVT for your kitchen, an SPC core is typically the strongest and most suitable option. It provides the necessary resilience for a kitchen environment as compared to WPC or PVC cores.
How Can I Care for My Kitchen’s LVT Flooring?
Caring for LVT is simple and requires basic cleaning with a brush and mop. A weekly wipe-down with a mop or antibacterial wipes will keep the floor looking new. There’s no need for special cleaning products or intensive scrubbing.
What’s a Good Alternative to LVT in the Kitchen?
Engineered wood flooring is a noteworthy alternative to LVT in the kitchen. It consists of a wear layer up to 6mm thick and often includes a UV Lacquered finish. While providing strength and resilience, it might be more expensive compared to LVT.