Why Luxury Vinyl Tile Is Transforming Burlington Homes
Flooring choices have evolved dramatically over the past decade, with homeowners seeking options that combine elegance, resilience, affordability, and ease of maintenance. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) has emerged as a preferred choice in Burlington homes, offering a seamless blend of visual appeal and long-term durability. Whether you’re upgrading a single room or embarking on a full home renovation, understanding the ins and outs of LVT installation is essential.
This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to Luxury Vinyl Tile installation in Burlington. From understanding what makes LVT different to exploring the right installation methods and maintenance practices, you’ll find everything you need to make an informed decision for your flooring project.
1. What is Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)?
Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) is a modern flooring solution designed to mimic the look of natural materials like stone, ceramic, or wood. Unlike traditional sheet vinyl, LVT is available in tile and plank formats, giving homeowners the flexibility to create custom layouts and patterns.
Key Features:
– Multi-layer Construction: LVT typically consists of four layers — a wear layer, design layer, core layer, and backing.
– High Durability: Designed to withstand daily wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
– Aesthetic Variety: Available in various textures, colors, and finishes that replicate natural flooring materials.
2. Benefits of Luxury Vinyl Tile
LVT isn’t just popular because it looks good — it offers a broad spectrum of benefits, especially suited for Burlington’s residential and commercial spaces.
Water Resistance: Many LVT products are 100% waterproof, making them perfect for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Durability: Its strong wear layer resists scratches, stains, and dents. This makes LVT a reliable choice for families with children or pets.
Comfort and Sound Absorption: Compared to stone or ceramic, LVT feels warmer underfoot and reduces noise — great for Burlington’s colder months and multi-level housing.
Budget-Friendly: Installation and material costs are generally lower than hardwood or natural stone flooring. Yet, LVT can still boost a property’s aesthetic value and resale appeal.
Versatility in Design: Whether you prefer the rustic look of weathered wood or the modern elegance of slate, LVT offers virtually unlimited design possibilities.
3. Preparing for LVT Installation: What You Need to Know
Proper preparation is crucial to a successful installation. Here’s what Burlington homeowners should consider before laying down LVT.
Acclimation: Luxury vinyl tiles should be acclimated to room temperature (typically 65–85°F) for at least 48 hours before installation to prevent expansion or contraction.
Subfloor Inspection: Your subfloor must be clean, dry, and level. Concrete, plywood, and existing vinyl are acceptable surfaces, but irregularities should be fixed beforehand.
Moisture Testing: Especially in Burlington basements, it’s vital to check for excess moisture. A vapor barrier may be required.
Room Measurement and Layout: Planning the layout ahead of time ensures less material waste and better visual symmetry. Don’t forget to account for transitions between rooms and any odd angles.
4. LVT Installation Methods: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices
Luxury Vinyl Tile can be installed using various techniques. The best method depends on the subfloor condition, room usage, and your budget.
Glue-Down Installation:
– Overview: Tiles are adhered directly to the subfloor using a bonding adhesive.
– Pros: Durable, best for high-traffic areas.
– Cons: Time-consuming; not ideal for DIY beginners.
– Best for: Commercial spaces or large rooms.
Click-Lock (Floating Floor):
– Overview: Tiles interlock without adhesives and ‘float’ above the subfloor.
– Pros: Easier to install, no glue mess.
– Cons: Requires a smooth, level subfloor.
– Best for: DIY projects and residential installations.
Loose-Lay:
– Overview: Heavyweight tiles rest on the subfloor with minimal adhesive.
– Pros: Easy to replace individual tiles.
– Cons: Less secure in large or high-traffic areas.
– Best for: Small spaces and temporary solutions.
Installation Tips:
– Start from the center and work outwards.
– Use spacers for expansion gaps near walls.
– Roll the floor with a 100-lb roller for glue-down methods.
– Cut edges carefully with a utility knife for clean borders.
5. DIY vs. Professional Installation
Is LVT installation a weekend project or a job for professionals? Here’s how to decide.
DIY Installation:
– Suitable for: Click-lock and loose-lay types.
– Tools Needed: Utility knife, spacers, tapping block, level, measuring tape.
– Skills Required: Basic carpentry, measuring, cutting.
Professional Installation:
– Benefits: Precision, warranty assurance, proper subfloor treatment.
– When to Choose: Uneven subfloors, glue-down installations, or large rooms.
While DIY saves money upfront, improper installation can lead to future repair costs or voided warranties — something Burlington homeowners should consider carefully.
6. Caring for Your LVT Floor: Maintenance and Longevity
Luxury Vinyl Tile is relatively low-maintenance, but proper care will ensure its beauty lasts for years.
Daily/Weekly Cleaning:
– Use a soft-bristle broom or vacuum.
– Mop with warm water and pH-neutral cleaner.
Avoid:
– Abrasive scrubs and steel wool.
– Detergents with ammonia.
– Steam cleaners (unless manufacturer-approved).
Preventive Measures:
– Use felt pads under furniture.
– Place mats at entrances to reduce dirt tracking.
– Avoid dragging heavy items across the floor.
With these practices, LVT can last 10–20 years or more — a great return on investment for Burlington homes.
7. Cost of Luxury Vinyl Tile Installation in Burlington
Understanding cost factors helps plan your renovation budget more effectively.
Material Costs:
– Basic LVT: $2–4/sq ft
– Premium LVT: $4–7/sq ft
– Waterproof or designer styles: $7–10/sq ft
Installation Costs:
– DIY: minimal (tools and time)
– Professional: $2–5/sq ft labor
– Subfloor prep or removal of old flooring may add $1–2/sq ft
Total Estimate:
For a 500 sq ft space, expect to pay between $2,000–$6,000 depending on product choice and method.
8. Burlington Flooring Trends: Why LVT is Popular Locally
Burlington’s climate — cold winters, humid summers — makes moisture-resistant and temperature-stable flooring crucial.
Local Style Trends:
– Light oak and whitewashed finishes are popular in modern homes.
– Stone-look tiles remain a favorite in bathrooms and kitchens.
– Wide-format planks add a sense of spaciousness.
Market Appeal:
LVT is increasingly common in new builds and resale renovations, thanks to its cost-performance ratio. It adds value without the upkeep of hardwood or stone.
9. Why Burlington Homeowners Trust Multiple Choice Flooring
For homeowners in Burlington looking for expert guidance and professional execution, Multiple Choice Flooring has become a go-to source for Luxury Vinyl Tile installation. With a wide range of materials and an experienced team that understands the unique demands of Burlington properties, they deliver durable, beautiful results every time. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, upgrading a basement, or refreshing your entire home, Multiple Choice Flooring offers the quality and peace of mind you deserve. Visit their website at https://www.multiplechoiceflooring.com/.
Conclusion: Making the Right Flooring Decision for Your Home
Luxury Vinyl Tile offers Burlington homeowners a practical yet stylish solution for modern living. With its blend of durability, affordability, and design flexibility, it meets the needs of busy households and aesthetic-conscious renovators alike. Whether you choose to DIY or call in professionals, understanding the preparation, methods, and maintenance involved ensures a flooring experience that’s built to last.
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about Luxury Vinyl Tile Installation in Burlington, it’s time to take the next step—plan your project, select the right product, and make your space shine from the floor up.