Louis Kahn and the LVP Buying Guide

You might have heard me say that Louis Kahn is one of my favorite architects of all time. The Yale Center for British Art was the first building I ever stepped into with awe for its creator.  

And so how better to honor him than to write a sacrilegious blog post about something he would want nothing to do with? To help you, that's why. Blame it on inflation.

Kahn had a famous “conversation” with a brick. 

You say to brick, “What do you want, brick?” Brick says to you, “I like an arch.” If you say to brick, “arches are expensive and I can use a concrete lintel over an opening. What do you think of that, brick?” Brick says: “I like an arch.”

What would Mr. Khan think of LVP? The built up vinyl boards made to look like wood?

He’d probably have rolled over in his grave enough times to power the western seaboard.

In some sick marketing scheme, LVP stands for Luxury Vinyl Plank. What else in the universe is both luxury and vinyl? If you answered nothing, you are correct. But so be it, LVP is here and it seems to want to stay. But just like everything else, there’s good, bad, and ugly. How do you find the good?

1. Quality and Thickness: If you pay attention to just one thing, let it be this. Opt for LVP with a higher wear layer thickness, as this directly correlates with durability. A thicker wear layer ensures better resistance to scratches, stains, and daily wear, prolonging the flooring's lifespan.

2. Design and Texture: Choose LVP that has a realistic look and feel of actual wood. High-quality options come with intricate wood grain patterns and textures, adding authenticity to your space. Select a design that complements your interior style. OR if you want to honor Louis Kahn, pick a vinyl floor that looks like vinyl. Our friends in the UK have nicer choices than here in the states. I’m still looking though.

3. UV Resistance: One of the major flaws in LVP is that they tend to fade from UV rays. A higher quality, thicker wear layer that is the same color through and through will help ameliorate this problem.

4. Waterproof Properties: One of LVP's standout features is its waterproof nature. Look for options that are 100% waterproof to ensure your flooring remains unaffected by spills, moisture, and humidity. This makes LVP ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.If you’re going to use LVP, why wouldn’t you get one that’s waterproof?

5. Installation Mechanism: LVP is known for its easy installation. Opt for planks that come with a user-friendly installation mechanism such as click-lock systems. This allows for a hassle-free DIY installation or quicker professional installation.

6. Underlayment and Sound Absorption: Some LVP products have built-in underlayment that helps with sound absorption and adds comfort underfoot. This feature can contribute to a quieter and more comfortable living environment. There are also standalone underlayments that can increase comfort and absorb sound. Consider both.

7. Warranty: A reliable manufacturer often backs quality LVP flooring with a substantial warranty. A longer warranty period indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability and performance.

8. Environmental Considerations: Many LVP brands offer eco-friendly options that are made from recycled materials or are recyclable themselves. Off gassing is a thing. Even if you’re not sensitive to odors, flooring by nature takes up a lot of space, so choose wisely to avoid a nauseous situation.

9. Price Point: LVP comes in a wide range of prices. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in higher-quality LVP can pay off in the long run due to its durability and longevity. You’ll wish you had if you pick a low grade LVP, pay the same in labor, and end up with an easily marred floor.

10. Reviews and Recommendations: Research reviews and seek recommendations from friends, family, or online communities. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the performance and longevity of different LVP brands.

11. Samples and Visualizing: Before making a final decision, request samples of your preferred LVP options. Seeing and touching the actual material can help you visualize how it will look in your space and ensure it aligns with your expectations.

Now that I’ve contributed a spin or two to Louis’ grave, I’m going to cleanse my palate and stare at some herringbone wood flooring.