Rigid core is click-type plank vinyl flooring that doesn’t require any adhesives, and it’s quickly becoming the top choice for homeowners and business owners because of its many benefits. These budget-friendly options come in a wide range of styles and realistically mimic the looks of both hardwood and tile. They are 100% waterproof, comfortable underfoot, and easy to maintain. They’re also the easiest to install with its tongue and groove system and floating installation, so it’s perfect for DIY projects. In this guide, we’ll compare the differences of rigid core vinyl and glue-down luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and why rigid core is perfect for residential and commercial applications.
WHAT IS RIGID CORE?
An improvement on traditional vinyl, rigid core is an engineered product with a rigid core construction for added stability, and because it’s a solid plank, it has less flexibility than regular vinyl. It’s constructed of three to four layers, including the wear layer that protects the planks from scratches and stains, a thin layer of vinyl over the core, the strong rigid core that could be made from a wood or stone plastic composite core for added durability, and a not always included attached underlayment for extra cushion and sound absorption.
BENEFITS OF RIGID CORE
It comes in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures to realistically mimic the looks of hardwood and natural stone tile. Vinyl flooring is known for its ability to be installed just about anywhere because of its water-resistant properties, but rigid core vinyl goes one step further offering products that are 100% waterproof. For those with messy kids and pets, you won’t have to worry about moisture or humidity ruining your planks or causing them to swell. The tongue and groove or click system makes it easy to install on your own.
Protex Flooring offers a next-generation collection of rigid core vinyl with Luxury Vinyl Tile line. These collections represent some of the highest wear-rated LVT from Protex, which makes it suitable for commercial applications. Products from Protex PTW Series, including Hawthorne LVT with rich dark browns and realistic knots and grains to Ludlow LVT with subtle grey tones and charcoal gray knots and grains, work well in every style from modern farmhouse to contemporary industrial.
Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice when needing something durable and low maintenance as well as made for rooms with moisture. Deciding on rigid core luxury vinyl planks may depend on how big your room size is and whether or not you plan to do the installation yourself or spend money to hire a professional installer. Whichever type LVT you choose, you really can’t go wrong with long-lasting luxury vinyl.
