Questions about LVT's

[JustinWG]

If you've read any of my other posts, you've probably heard that we're getting ready to redo our flooring in our home.  We've yet to decide 100% on the main floor, but we know what we want in the wet areas.  We've been looking at LVT (luxury vinyl tiles) for several reasons (cost of product / install, tools required, kid/pet rated, better water resilience, warranty, etc.)  We will be installing the product ourselves and would prefer something relatively user friendly.  If that means we have to pay a little extra, so be it.  I don't want some 5mm brittle POS that belongs in the trash.

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[*]Any brands to stay away from... including crappy product/warranty, brittle, reverse T&G, etc.

[*]Preferred brands?  We're looking for something with an earth tone and stone aesthetics.  This is apparently rocket science for some of the local vendors to figure out....  [blink]

[*]Is there a significant difference in the cork core v pvc core?  Cork seems more comfortable to walk on, but a lesser product in terms of life - if it got wet, seems like the water would just sponge up and have a hard time evaporating.  Whereas the liquid shouldn't permeate a PVC core....  Or am I missing something(s)?

[*]I don't know the name of the brand, but there are several LVT's that don't have a T&G system.  They are in fact, more of a peel and stick with no interlocking mechanism.  I know that you're supposed to use a heavily weighted roller as a final part of installation to help "secure the unit and improve the bond". 

They still seem shady.  Correct me if I am wrong, but that seems like problems waiting to happen - from tiles peeling up, to things getting between the lines (or under tiles), cupping on the edges, twisting of product, and several other problems.

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As always, any input - good or bad - is appreciated.  Thanks.

 

[Letsonbandr]

Wanted to drop in and say that I have always been a fan of "real" tile, 3/4" solid hardwood and old school tried and true materials.  That all changed after I started installing Armstrongs Alterna tiles.  I love them.  I cant say enough about them and my clients are very happy with them as well.  They are very easy to clean and are a fantastic fit for an area prone to water exposure.  I installed them in my laundry room / powder room and love them.  They have a slight texture to them so as not to be slippery when wet.  I always install over 5/8 AC plywood to ensure they are level with my other 3/4" flooring.  They are installed with an adhesive.  Make sure you do your layout lines before installing adhesive!  They are easy to cut and install, and, yes you should rent a 100LB roller to stabilize them after install.  I can say, that I have tried to remove some due to minor screw ups in measuring etc.  the bond is nothing short of tenacious.  I don't think you'll ever have to worry about them peeling up if installed properly.  Little epoxy grout and your set to go.  Fast, easy and durable.  Bonus: they come in a wide range of styles, colors, sizes etc. 

 

[JustinWG]

[member=53302]Letsonbandr[/member] - Thanks for the reply.  This go around, the wife and I have looked at some of the Alterna tiles.  Initially, we weren't crazy about the idea of glue down and grouting, as we've never attempted that kind of project.  Most of the products that are offered, are very nice looking, thicker, and seemingly a lot better quality that some of the competitors.

We will likely be revisiting Alterna as an option.  They are one of the few companies that offer a stone aesthetic in a quality material.

 

[Heynicebits]

Fritz Tile looks pretty good up close.