Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has recently gained popularity due to its durability and versatility. However, a common question that homeowners and business owners may have when considering LVP is whether or not it is heat resistant.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is heat resistant and can withstand low to moderate heat. It’s performance may be affected by the specific product and the conditions it’s exposed to. Avoid exposing luxury vinyl plank to extreme heat or placing hot objects directly on the surface.
The rest of this article will explore the heat resistance of luxury vinyl planks to help you decide whether to install this type of flooring in your home or business.
Will Heat Damage Luxury Vinyl Planks or is Luxury Vinyl Plank Heat Resistant?
Heat will not cause permanent damage to luxury vinyl planks. However, extreme heat or direct contact with hot objects will likely cause the flooring to buckle and warp or melt. Installing luxury vinyl planks in areas exposed to high temperatures, such as a wood burning fireplace, is not recommended.
LVP comprises several layers, including a wear layer, a decorative layer, and a backing layer.
The wear layer is the topmost layer of the LVP and is the one exposed to the most wear and tear. It’s also the most exposed to heat. This layer is made of a clear, durable vinyl material resistant to scratches, dents, and stains.
The fact that this layer is made of vinyl, a heat-resistant material, helps to protect the LVP from heat damage. Additionally, the transparent nature of the wear layer allows it to reflect heat rather than absorb it, which further helps to protect the floor from heat damage.
The decorative layer of LVP, which is a photograph of the desired natural material, does not contribute to the heat resistance of the floor. However, the backing layer of LVPs comprises a solid vinyl material that provides support and stability to the floor. This solid vinyl material is stable and resistant to heat, preventing the LVP from warping or melting when exposed to heat.
By combining these layers, LVP can withstand normal heat and heat-generating appliances, making it a durable and heat-resistant flooring option. However, you should avoid exposing LVP to extreme temperatures or placing heat-generating appliances, such as a toaster or coffee maker, directly on the floor.
Extreme heat or direct contact with hot objects can quickly cause damage to your luxury vinyl planks. The damage can manifest in several ways, including:
- Discoloration or fading: LVP can lose its color or become discolored if exposed to prolonged periods of direct sunlight or other heat sources.
- Warping: LVP can become distorted or bent out of shape if exposed to extreme heat or placed in a room with fluctuating temperatures.
- Softening: LVP can become soft or pliable if exposed to high heat levels, making it more prone to dents and scratches.
These issues can occur when exposed to extreme or prolonged heat but are not likely to happen when exposed to regular heat and heat-generating appliances.
Can you put a stove on vinyl plank flooring?
Stoves cannot be placed directly on vinyl plank flooring. Stoves need to be installed on non combustable material such as concrete, stone, or tile.
Can you heat luxury vinyl plank flooring?
Luxury vinyl plank flooring can be used in a heated floor situation such as radiant heat or electric. Check with the manufacturer to ensure the brand you are looking at is compatible.
Conclusion
LVP is a sturdy and durable flooring material resistant to heat damage. However, you should take caution to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or placing hot objects directly on the floor’s surface.
