Vinyl Flooring

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is one of the best flooring options for homes with dogs, even large ones, but no flooring is completely scratch-proof. High-quality LVP (6 mm+) with a thicker wear layer (20 mil+) resists scratches from everyday pet activity far better than many hardwood floors. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and using felt pads under heavy furniture will help minimize wear. If you have large, active dogs, choosing a premium LVP designed for high-traffic residential use can provide even greater durability while maintaining its appearance for many years.

LVP is genuinely waterproof at the plank level when it features a 100% waterproof core (SPC or WPC) and a sealed wear layer, meaning the material itself won’t swell, warp, or degrade from surface moisture or spills. However, “waterproof” does not mean immune to all water damage. Water can penetrate poorly sealed seams or exposed edges, or migrate beneath floating installations, potentially harming the subfloor or causing mold if not promptly addressed. Prioritize products explicitly labelled “100% waterproof,” verify the core type, and ensure proper installation with moisture barriers to protect both the floor and substrate and maintain the warranty.

Not always. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and laminate can usually be installed directly over existing tile if it is firmly bonded, level, and free of cracks or loose pieces. However, grout lines and surface irregularities must be addressed—typically by skim-coating with a levelling compound—to prevent them from showing through the new vinyl. If tiles are cracked, hollow-sounding, or significantly uneven, or if the grout is popping, removal is recommended to ensure a stable, long-lasting installation. In some of these situations, addressing only the damaged areas will be sufficient.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become popular because it offers the appearance of hardwood with excellent durability and affordability. Its advantages include water resistance, easy maintenance, comfort underfoot, pet-friendly performance, and the ability to be installed over many existing surfaces. LVP is also available in many realistic wood designs and colours. Potential drawbacks include that it can be expensive, may be difficult to repair if damaged, can be affected by extreme temperature changes, and lower-quality products may show wear or look less realistic over time. Choosing a quality product that is at least 6 mm thick with a 20 mil wear layer—and having it professionally installed—makes a significant difference.

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile are both excellent flooring options for Phoenix homes, but they offer different benefits. Tile remains a popular Arizona choice because it stays cool, handles extreme temperatures, and can last for decades. However, LVP provides greater comfort, faster installation, easier replacement, and a warmer, softer, and more forgiving surface underfoot. Quality LVP can also last a lifetime and better accommodate minor slab movement without cracking as tile can. The best choice depends on your priorities—tile for maximum longevity and cooling, or LVP for comfort, style flexibility, and a more resilient everyday living surface.