LVT 101

A: The rigid core hides most common subfloor imperfections, making installation easier and ensuring a smoother finished appearance after installation. Rigid Core LVT is also waterproof, so it can be installed in water prone indoor areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and entryways. Rigid Core LVT is a floating floor that’s installed with a locking system, so you do not use an adhesive. Also, a rigid core allows for the pre-attachment of an underlayment on some styles that helps soften sound and creates a cushion underfoot. Also, there’s less subfloor prep than with a flexible LVT.

A: MLF stands for a category of flooring called “Multilayered Flooring.” That’s essentially any kind of hard surface flooring composed of multiple layers of different material that are assembled together, provided that the middle layer is a polymer-based material.

A: In the beginning of this new category of LVT, there was “Wood Plastic Core” or “Wood Plastic Composite” (WPC). That is flooring with a polymer-based extruded core that uses wood flour as an ingredient. Then came “Stone Plastic Composite” (SPC). This is a polymer-based extruded core that uses minerals, such as limestone or calcium carbonate, as an ingredient.

A: All are considered to be Rigid Core LVT, are 100% waterproof and considered dimensionally stable. Also, all are good at hiding some common subfloor imperfections. (With Flexible LVT, on the other hand, subfloor imperfections can sometimes be transferred (or “telegraphed”) to the surface.)
The principle differences are found in the construction of the core:
For WPC, a foaming agent is used to create tiny air pockets in the extrusion process for more comfort underfoot, better acoustical quality and lighter overall weight.
For SPC, there are no air pockets—the core is solid. The product is heavier and dent resistance is greater.

A: In a manner, yes. It can still be scored and snapped but will take multiple passes with a utility knife to score, especially with thicker constructions. Use of power saws is recommended; use of a saber saw is best when scribing or making intricate cuts.

A: Careful handling is necessary with all floating flooring to avoid damaging the locking mechanism during transport and moving, etc. Regarding acclimation, please consult the installation instructions for each product as to the specific conditions for storing, transport and installation.

A: No, Additional underlayments are not to be used with flooring that has a factory attached acoustical backing.

A: Consider that Rigid Core LVT expands and contracts at about half the rate of flexible LVT, so plan transitions accordingly. Refer to product installation guidelines if additional information is needed.

A: Common subfloor imperfections include, but are not limited to, minor cracks, pock/spalling marks in concrete, certain grout joints and small deviations in flatness of the subfloor. Complete subfloor preparation requirements can be found in the product installation guide.

A: Rigid core flooring will not be harmed by water when exposed to it from spills and normal cleaning. However use of the flooring outside exposes it to other elements which will damage the flooring and is not covered by your warranty.

A: Rigid Core flooring is designed as a floating floor which does not allow for the application of grout.