Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) has become one of the fastest-growing flooring options in today’s market. It was developed as a practical alternative to hardwood and ceramic tile, combining durability and water resistance with realistic design. Unlike vinyl sheet flooring, LVT comes in individual tiles or planks, offering a more authentic appearance and easier installation or replacement.
How LVT is Made?
LVT is constructed from multiple layers that work together to deliver both performance and aesthetics:
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Core layer made from strong yet flexible PVC provides structural stability and impact resistance.
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Vinyl base layer seals the core and supports the printed design.
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Photographic film reproduces wood, stone, or tile visuals with high-definition detail. Advanced products use embossed-in-register texturing for a surface that feels as realistic as it looks.
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Wear layer is a transparent protective coating that resists scratches, stains, and water. Depending on the application, this can range from 0.3 mm for residential use to 0.7 mm for heavy commercial settings.
Luxury Vinyl Tile offers flexible installation options to suit different needs. It can be glued directly to the subfloor for maximum stability, fitted with click-lock systems that allow floating floors ideal for DIY projects, or laid loosely with friction backing in areas where quick installation and removal are important. This versatility makes LVT adaptable to both residential and commercial applications.
Key Features
LVT is known for its ability to combine style and practicality. Its main characteristics include:
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Waterproof construction that makes it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and basements.
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Durability thanks to a wear layer often reinforced with polyurethane or ceramic bead technology, offering protection from scratches, dents, and daily wear.
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Low maintenance since it requires only sweeping and occasional mopping with a neutral cleaner.
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Comfort and warmth compared to ceramic tile, with optional backing layers that improve sound absorption.
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Design flexibility with thousands of color and pattern options, from rustic oak planks to polished marble.
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Lifespan of 15 to 20 years in residential spaces and 10 to 15 years in commercial settings when properly installed and maintained.
Where LVT Works Best?
Because it is waterproof and resilient, LVT performs well in high-traffic and high-moisture areas such as entryways, hallways, playrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. It is not typically recommended for stairs, where securing the edges can be challenging. In basements, LVT offers warmth and easier cleanup compared to carpet or hardwood in case of leaks or flooding. For pet owners, it provides better scratch resistance than hardwood and allows for individual tile or plank replacement if damage occurs.
The Difference Between LVT and LVP
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference between Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP):
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LVT is designed in square or rectangular tiles, often mimicking stone, ceramic, or patterned surfaces.
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LVP is produced in long, narrow planks that replicate hardwood flooring more closely.
Both share the same layered construction and performance benefits. The choice mainly comes down to whether you prefer the look of stone/tile or the appearance of wood.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
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Waterproof and durable enough for any room
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Softer and warmer underfoot than ceramic tile
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Easier installation compared to hardwood or ceramic
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Damaged pieces can be replaced individually
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More affordable than natural wood or stone
Limitations
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Repetitive patterns may be visible if installation does not mix boards carefully
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Less resistant to scratches than ceramic tile
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Still an imitation of natural materials, which may not appeal to everyone
Cost Considerations
In Canada, LVT is positioned as a mid-range flooring option that offers good value compared to hardwood and tile. Prices vary depending on the quality, design, and brand.
Material costs
Most LVT products in Canada range from $3.50 to $7.50 CAD per square foot, with higher-end or designer collections reaching $8 to $10 CAD per square foot. Products with thicker wear layers (20–28 mil) or premium embossing are usually at the higher end of the scale.
Installation costs
Professional installation typically adds $2.50 to $5.00 CAD per square foot. Costs can increase if the subfloor requires leveling, moisture barriers, or removal of old flooring. Herringbone or other patterned installations may also carry a surcharge.
Additional expenses
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Underlayment: $0.75 to $1.50 CAD per square foot if not already attached.
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Floor preparation: $1.00 to $2.50 CAD per square foot, depending on subfloor condition.
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Removal of old flooring and disposal: $1.00 to $2.00 CAD per square foot on average.
Overall, the total installed cost of LVT in Canada usually falls between $6 and $12 CAD per square foot, which makes it significantly more affordable than solid hardwood (often $12–$20 CAD installed) and competitive with ceramic tile once labor is factored in.
Conclusion
Luxury Vinyl Tile was created to bridge the gap between beauty and practicality. By offering realistic visuals, waterproof durability, and an approachable price point, it has become a go-to flooring solution for homeowners and businesses alike.
At Floordi, we bring this innovation closer to your living spaces with carefully selected LVT collections that combine modern design, long-lasting performance, and easy maintenance. For anyone looking to achieve the look of wood without the limitations of natural materials, contact Floordi Canada today.
