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What's the Difference? Vinyl Flooring vs. Luxury Vinyl Tile or Plank

Jul. 23, 2025

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Fanmao Guide: What’s the Difference Between Traditional Vinyl and Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

 At Fanmao, we believe in helping you make well-informed decisions, and this comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the distinctions so you can confidently choose the flooring that best fits your space, needs, and budget.

Traditional Vinyl Flooring vs. Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Let’s begin by looking at traditional vinyl flooring.

What Is Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring—also known as resilient flooring—has long been used as an affordable, practical alternative to ceramic tile, natural stone, or hardwood. Thanks to improvements in design and surface technology, vinyl flooring today is more realistic, stylish, and easier to maintain than ever before.

Vinyl once had a reputation for looking outdated and showing scuff marks easily. But modern versions from feature a UV-cured urethane coating that resists wear and simplifies cleaning, offering a fresh, updated aesthetic in a wide variety of styles.

Also Known as Sheet Vinyl

When we talk about traditional vinyl flooring, we typically refer to sheet vinyl, which comes in large rolls typically 6’, 12’, or 13’6” wide depending on the manufacturer.

Compared to ceramic tiles or hardwood,  sheet vinyl provides a softer and more comfortable surface. It is also water-resistant, making it a practical choice for areas prone to occasional spills and moisture.

The Layers of Sheet Vinyl Flooring

Sheet vinyl flooring  is composed of multiple layers, each serving a unique purpose:

  • Top Coat – Adds gloss and protects the wear layer.

  • Wear Layer – Shields the pattern layer from damage.

  • Pattern Layer – Provides the printed design and color.

  • Cushion Layer – Adds softness and underfoot texture.

  • Fiberglass Layer – Keeps the flooring flat and dimensionally stable.

  • Base Layer – The foundation that supports all other layers.

Choose Sheet Vinyl for Seamless Flooring

If your design goal is to have a seamless floor without visible joints, sheet vinyl is an excellent option. It is available in an array of styles, including wood-inspired looks and Victorian-style patterned tiles, mimicking today’s ceramic tile trends.

Sheet Vinyl Installation: Things to Know

Professional installation is strongly recommended for  sheet vinyl flooring. Unlike planks or tiles, a single miscut during sheet vinyl installation can ruin an entire piece.

Additionally, the subfloor must be exceptionally flat and smooth. 

The Cost of Sheet Vinyl

For homeowners on a budget or preparing to sell a home, vinyl is a cost-effective flooring option. Pricing generally ranges from $2.79 to $3.99 per square foot, with installation typically costing around $2.50 per square foot (not including floor preparation such as subfloor replacement or leveling).

Most sheet vinyl products come with wear and stain warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years. With proper care, your floor can last up to two decades and maintain its original look.

Sheet Vinyl Maintenance Tips

  • Use caution when moving heavy appliances—dragging can cause tears.

  • Keep pets' nails trimmed, particularly larger dogs, to prevent scratching.

  • Falling objects, such as cans or knives, may cause gouges in the material.

What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

Now let’s talk about Fanmao Luxury Vinyl Flooring—a more recent innovation that includes Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) formats.

Luxury vinyl is also made in layers but includes a rigid core, enhancing stability and durability. These products are thicker (typically 5mm to 12mm) than traditional sheet vinyl and offer more realistic wood or stone visuals.


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Formats and Sizes

Fanmao LVP flooring comes in planks typically ranging from 4” x 48” to 9” x 72”, designed to mimic real hardwood. Fanmao LVT flooring includes tile formats in sizes like 16” x 16” up to 18” x 36”, emulating natural stone or ceramic tile.

Luxury Vinyl Construction & Waterproof Core

Many of Fanmao’s luxury vinyl products use cutting-edge core structures made from materials such as limestone powder, recycled wood fibers, and PVC. These cores are 100% waterproof, dimensionally stable, and resistant to swelling, mold, and mildew—ideal for wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

Luxury vinyl planks often include an attached underlayment, such as cork, for enhanced sound absorption and comfort.

Realistic Designs and Versatility

Fanmao’s luxury vinyl offerings are known for extremely realistic visuals—whether replicating oak, walnut, or marble—and can be used in areas where sheet vinyl might require extra subfloor prep. Because of their thickness and core structure, LVT and LVP won’t telegraph minor subfloor imperfections.

Ideal for Moisture-Prone Areas

Like traditional vinyl, Fanmao luxury vinyl is a superb option for spaces exposed to water. Its dimensional stability and waterproof construction make it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and even basements.

Luxury Vinyl Installation

Fanmao LVT and LVP are typically installed using a floating click-lock system, which does not require glue. However, installers must leave expansion joints around walls and fixed features. These gaps are then covered with quarter-round molding.

Unlike laminate, Fanmao LVT doesn’t produce a hollow sound and can be nearly indistinguishable from genuine wood underfoot.

Why Homeowners Choose Fanmao Luxury Vinyl

Thanks to its ease of installation, modern styling, and long-lasting performance, Fanmao luxury vinyl flooring is increasingly popular for both residential and commercial applications. We continually develop new collections with the latest textures, colors, and innovations to meet evolving interior design trends.

Vinyl vs. Luxury Vinyl: Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between Fanmao sheet vinyl and Fanmao luxury vinyl comes down to your specific needs:

  • Choose sheet vinyl for a seamless, budget-friendly floor with fast installation.

  • Choose luxury vinyl (LVP or LVT) if you want a more durable, stylish, and long-term solution with authentic textures and easier repairs.


We invite you to explore the full Fanmao vinyl flooring collection—see the textures, test the comfort, and compare styles to find your perfect fit.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out—we’re always here to help.


What's the Difference? Vinyl Flooring vs. Luxury Vinyl Tile or Plank

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