The Benefits of LVP Flooring in High-Traffic Areas

Quick Summary

Durability: LVP offers superior scratch, dent, and wear resistance—perfect for high-traffic spaces.
Waterproof Performance: Many modern LVP products are 100% waterproof, ideal for moisture-prone areas.
Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean with specific care recommendations to ensure longevity.
Noise Reduction: LVP with the right underlayment reduces sound transmission—great for busy homes or businesses.
Installation Versatility: LVP can often be installed over existing flooring, saving time and costs.

Understanding LVP Flooring

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a type of resilient flooring designed to replicate the look and texture of hardwood while offering enhanced durability, moisture resistance, and ease of maintenance. It is constructed in layers—typically including a backing layer, a core layer for strength and stability, a printed design layer for aesthetics, and a protective wear layer on top. LVP is available in a wide range of finishes and plank sizes, allowing homeowners, designers, and builders to find options that fit both modern and traditional interior styles. Thanks to its affordability and premium appearance, LVP has become a top choice in both residential and commercial flooring projects.

Key Benefits of LVP Flooring

Durability

One of LVP’s most impressive qualities is its ability to resist damage in the most frequently used spaces. Whether you’re dealing with kids, pets, office foot traffic, or retail customers, LVP is built to withstand heavy wear and tear. The topmost wear layer is key here—this transparent layer protects the flooring from scuffs, scratches, and stains. While many LVP products come with wear layers ranging from 6 to 20 mils, for high-traffic areas it’s strongly recommended to choose a wear layer of at least 20 mils. This ensures the surface maintains its beauty and performance over the long term, even in the most active environments. Some commercial-grade LVP even goes beyond that, providing additional protection for truly high-impact spaces.

Water-Resistant Properties

It’s common to hear LVP described as water-resistant, but it’s important to recognize that many modern LVP floors are now fully waterproof. This means they can be installed in wet or moisture-prone areas without worry—something that’s not always possible with laminate or hardwood. Waterproof LVP features a tightly sealed click-lock system and a non-porous core that resists water absorption, making it ideal for use in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, mudrooms, and even basements. This enhanced water protection not only guards against spills and splashes but also helps prevent issues like warping or swelling over time, giving you peace of mind in busy households and commercial settings alike.

Easy Maintenance

LVP flooring is incredibly low maintenance compared to traditional hardwood or tile. It doesn’t require polishing, waxing, or refinishing, and its non-porous surface makes it resistant to stains and easy to clean. For daily upkeep, a simple sweep or vacuum is enough to remove dust and debris. When deeper cleaning is needed, a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner will do the job effectively. However, it’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals, steam mops, or abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the protective wear layer over time. By following a few simple guidelines, you can easily maintain the look and feel of your floors for years to come with minimal effort.

Sound-Dampening Performance

In homes and commercial spaces where noise control is important, LVP offers another unsung benefit: sound reduction. When installed with the right underlayment, LVP helps absorb sound and minimize footfall noise, which is especially useful in multi-level buildings or open-concept spaces. Some LVP products even come with built-in acoustic backing, making them an excellent choice for condos, offices, or upper-floor bedrooms. This acoustic performance contributes to a more comfortable, peaceful living or working environment without sacrificing style or durability.

Cost-Effective Solution

For homeowners and builders working with a budget, LVP provides an unbeatable balance of cost and performance. It delivers the look of premium hardwood at a fraction of the price, with the added benefit of being more durable and easier to maintain. It’s an ideal solution for large-scale residential remodels, commercial properties, or rental units where cost-effectiveness and longevity are key. And with new innovations constantly emerging in the industry, LVP continues to offer high-end visuals and premium features at prices that remain accessible.

Wide Range of Styles

With advanced printing technologies, LVP flooring today can authentically mimic the grain, knots, and color variations of real hardwood—sometimes so well that it’s hard to tell the difference. From classic oak and hickory finishes to more modern, weathered, or bleached looks, there’s an LVP style for every design palette. Whether you’re going for a rustic farmhouse vibe, a sleek Scandinavian aesthetic, or a timeless traditional look, there’s a plank that fits the vision. This versatility makes LVP a favorite among interior designers, flippers, and builders who need an attractive yet resilient flooring solution that complements a wide range of spaces.

Comfort Underfoot

Unlike harder surfaces like tile or stone, LVP flooring offers a softer, more comfortable feel underfoot. Its resilient surface has a slight give, providing a cushion that can be easier on your joints, especially in areas where you stand for extended periods, such as kitchens or retail spaces.

Environmentally Friendly Options

Many manufacturers now offer eco-friendly LVP flooring options made from recycled materials or low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) products. This means you can enjoy the benefits of LVP flooring while also making a more sustainable choice for your home or business. More consumers are prioritizing eco-conscious products—and LVP flooring is increasingly meeting that demand. Many top-tier LVP brands are now FloorScore® or GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means they meet strict indoor air quality standards and are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These certifications are essential for families with children, pets, or allergy sensitivities and for projects aiming for LEED credits or other sustainable building certifications. In addition to improved air quality, many LVP options are manufactured using recyclable materials or processes that reduce waste and environmental impact.

Installation and Considerations

Easy Installation Process

One of the most appealing features of LVP flooring is how easily and quickly it can be installed. Most LVP products feature a click-lock mechanism, allowing them to be floated over subfloors without nails or glue. This method not only speeds up the installation process but also makes it more accessible for DIY enthusiasts. LVP can also often be installed over existing flooring—such as tile, vinyl, or even hardwood—as long as the subfloor is level and in good condition. This dramatically reduces demolition costs and makes renovations more efficient, especially for those looking to update multiple rooms or flip properties on a timeline.

Subfloor Preparation

Before installing LVP flooring, it’s essential to prepare the subfloor properly. The surface should be clean, dry, and level to ensure the best results. While LVP can be installed over most existing floors, any significant imperfections should be addressed beforehand.

Acclimation and Expansion Gaps

To ensure optimal performance, LVP flooring should be acclimated to the room’s temperature and humidity levels before installation. Additionally, leaving expansion gaps around the perimeter allows the flooring to expand and contract naturally with changes in temperature and humidity.

Ideal Applications for LVP Flooring

Residential Spaces

LVP flooring is an excellent choice for high-traffic residential areas such as living rooms, hallways, and entryways. Its durability and water-resistant properties also make it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Commercial Environments

In commercial settings, LVP flooring can withstand the demands of busy foot traffic, making it suitable for retail stores, offices, and hospitality venues. Its cost-effectiveness and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for businesses.

Rental Properties

For landlords and property managers, LVP flooring offers a cost-effective and durable solution for rental units. Its resilience and easy upkeep can help reduce maintenance costs and extend the life of the flooring.

Conclusion

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring offers a host of benefits that make it an attractive choice for high-traffic areas. Its durability, water resistance, and low maintenance requirements make it ideal for both residential and commercial environments. With a wide range of styles to choose from, LVP flooring can enhance the aesthetic of any space while providing a practical, long-lasting solution. Whether you’re renovating your home or outfitting a business, consider the advantages of LVP flooring for your next project. It’s an ideal solution for large-scale residential remodels, commercial properties, or rental units where cost-effectiveness and longevity are key. And with new innovations constantly emerging in the industry, LVP continues to offer high-end visuals and premium features at prices that remain accessible.

Transform Your Home into a Luxurious Dream with Kingdom & Co.

Contact Kingdom & Co. today to transform your home into a luxurious oasis with our expertise in luxury home remodeling. Our team of professionals is ready to bring your vision to life and create a space that reflects your unique style and personality. Don’t wait any longer, reach out to us now and let’s embark on the journey of creating your dream home.