Have you ever walked barefoot on the kitchen floor in the winter, or have you ever taken your warm feet out of a warm blanket and placed them on the floor and thought it would feel like a cozy rug? You're not alone!

Our feet crave comfort, especially in the places where we spend the most time. When it comes to flooring, there is a constant battle between aesthetics, durability, and most importantly, feel.

On the one hand, we have traditional flooring options like hardwood and tile – beautiful, timeless classics. And on the other hand, there's a new competitor: luxury vinyl tile (LVT). LVT has stunning visuals and impressive durability, but how does it perform in terms of comfort? Do not know? Let's take a closer look!

What is the difference between Luxury Vinyl Tile and Traditional Flooring?

Well, traditional flooring and LVT, both have their own benefits. But when it comes to comfort, it is not easy to understand which is more comfortable. So let's deep dive into it and understand -

The Challenger: Traditional Flooring

Hardwood

The charm of hardwood is absolute, because it is made of natural thin, i.e., wood. It brings warmth and character to a space, but let's be honest, it can feel hard on bare feet. Especially in cold climates, hardwood floors can make you crave for slippers year-round.

Also, there are some types of hardwood floors available that require specific maintenance, such as sanding and refinishing, to maintain their comfort level.

According to the National Wood Flooring Association’s recent survey, 66% of homeowners are more likely to choose hardwood floors.

Tiles

There is no doubt that tiles offer unmatched durability and are perfect for high-traffic areas and bathrooms. They come in various types of materials such as - ceramic, porcelain, stone, marble, etc. But you should know that the strength of tile is also its weakness – it is hard and cold. Getting out of the shower on a cold tile floor can be a real wake-up call!

Also, they are great for high moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens due to their excellent water resistance. It is also very easy to clean and maintain.

The Competitor: Luxury Vinyl Tile Flooring

LVT has taken the flooring world by storm, and for good reason. It has a realistic wood or stone look, incredible durability against scratches and spills, and surprisingly good comfort underfoot. Here's how LVT tile stands up to the traditional options:

Comfort & Warmth

LVT tile flooring is generally thicker than traditional vinyl flooring. It has a built-in cushion backing which makes it feel warmer. This creates a softer, more comfortable surface to walk on. This is not like a luxurious carpet. But compared with the coolness of tile or the hardness of hardwood, luxury vinyl tile feels warmer and more comfortable. It's especially suitable for cold climate living places.

Shock Absorbent & Sound Dampening

LVT also acts as a shock absorber, reducing impact on your joints. This is a crucial benefit for high-traffic areas like hallways, especially for people who spend a lot of time on their feet. Also, LVT construction reduces sound and makes your home a quiet place. This is great for people who like a peaceful atmosphere and want to reduce the noise from footsteps or dropped objects.

Easy Maintenance & Versatility

Unlike hardwood which requires special cleaning products and frequent refinishing, LVT tile is a low-maintenance flooring. To keep it looking its best, regular sweeping and occasional mopping is enough. It comes in a variety of styles that look like natural wood, stone and even concrete. This allows you to get the desired aesthetic that you want, without the shortcomings of real materials. 

So, Which is Best - Traditional Flooring or LVT Tile Flooring?

The best flooring choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you crave the undeniable beauty of hardwood and are willing to put in the extra maintenance effort, it might be the perfect fit.

However, if you prioritize comfort, durability, and easy maintenance, luxury vinyl tile is a fantastic option. It offers surprising comfort underfoot, without sacrificing style or practicality.

The Final Step: Feeling is Believing

The best way to decide is to experience LVT tile flooring firsthand. Visit your local flooring store and walk barefoot on various LVT samples. You might be surprised at how comfortable and great it feels underfoot!

So, ditch the cold feet and explore the world of luxury vinyl tile. It can be the perfect blend of comfort, style and practicality required for your home.