July 25, 2025

How Long Does Luxury Vinyl Tile last?

“Installed right, maintained well, and you’re looking at 20+ years.” That’s what one veteran flooring installer told me when I asked about the lifespan of luxury vinyl tile (LVT). And he’s not wrong.

Luxury vinyl has become the go-to flooring for homeowners and commercial spaces alike—not just because it looks good, but because it holds up. We’re talking resistance to scratches, dents, moisture, and time itself. But let’s be honest: not all LVT is created equal, and not every install job sets it up for a long life. Some tiles last five years. Others? Two decades.

In this article, we’ll break down how long luxury vinyl tile really lasts, the factors that influence its performance, and how to get the most value out of your investment—whether you're outfitting a busy commercial building or your home kitchen.

river stone white lvt plank floor tile living room

How Many Years Do Vinyl Floors Last?

Luxury vinyl tile typically lasts 10 to 25 years, depending on product quality, wear layer thickness, installation, usage, and upkeep. Standard residential vinyl plank or tile can reliably hold up for 15–20 years with professional installation and proper care.

In commercial settings—where foot traffic and rolling loads are intense—LVT with a thicker wear layer (20–40 mil) can perform well beyond 20 years, especially if installed over a properly prepared subfloor. Some manufacturers even offer warranties stretching to 25 years or more.

Vinyl Flooring Durability

What Is Vinyl Flooring Made Of?

Vinyl flooring, including LVT, is made from multiple layers of materials:

A vinyl backing layer that offers stability and flexibility
A high-definition print layer that mimics natural stone, tile, or wood
A clear wear layer that protects against stains, scratches, and scuffs
Often topped with a polyurethane finish—sometimes infused with ceramic beads or antimicrobial coatings for extra durability

These layers work together to provide LVT with the resilience and design flexibility it’s known for.

river stone grey lvt plank 18x36 inch 20 mil kitchen floor tiles

Vinyl Flooring Pros and Cons

Pros

Affordable: Costs less than hardwood, stone, or ceramic
Water-resistant: Most LVT products are non-porous and highly moisture-resistant
Low-maintenance: Regular sweeping and light mopping are usually enough
Durable: Resists dents, scratches, and wear from heavy use
Comfortable and quiet: Softer and warmer underfoot than stone or tile
Easy to replace: Damaged planks or tiles can be swapped individually

Cons

Not easily repaired: Deep damage may require full tile/plank replacement
Not eco-friendly: Made from plastics that don’t decompose easily and are rarely recyclable
VOC emissions: Can release gases during installation—ventilation is key
Adhesive versions can be hard to remove
Lifespan still shorter than natural materials like wood or stone

Vinyl Flooring Thickness of Wear Layer

The wear layer is critical to LVT's longevity. It protects the design layer from foot traffic, furniture impact, and spills.

In residential settings, 12–20 mil is typically sufficient
For commercial use, 20–40 mil is preferred
A general rule: 1 mil = ~1 year of life with average wear and good care

However, very thick wear layers (e.g., 40+ mil) may reduce design clarity slightly. So, balance protection with appearance based on your space’s needs.

river stone grey lvt plank 18x36 inch reception floor tile

How Often Should You Repair or Replace Vinyl Flooring?

Luxury vinyl flooring is resilient, but not invincible. Small damages can be fixed. Larger, widespread issues? Replacement might be best.

Maintaining Vinyl Flooring

Routine care helps maximize lifespan:

Sweep regularly to avoid dirt buildup
Mop weekly using a gentle, damp method
Use rugs in high-traffic zones like entryways and kitchens
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading
Never drag heavy furniture—lift or use pads

These simple steps can extend the life of your floor by years.

Using the Right Materials and Cleaners

Use a pH-neutral floor cleaner with a two-bucket system for mopping. Avoid:

Abrasive scrubbers
Harsh chemicals or bleach
Vacuums with beater bars

In commercial spaces, use entry mat systems to reduce dirt tracked in. These can significantly reduce surface abrasion and keep the floor looking sharp.

pebble stone gray lvt flooring

Factors That Influence the Longevity of Vinyl Flooring

Sub-Floor Conditions/Preparation

LVT is flexible—but that’s a double-edged sword. If your subfloor has cracks, dips, or moisture issues, those flaws may eventually show through.
Before installation:

Repair cracks
Level the subfloor
Ensure it's clean and dry
Proper preparation prevents buckling, warping, and premature wear.

Correctly Installing LVT

Even the best LVT won't last if it’s installed poorly. Common mistakes include:

Skipping acclimation to room temperature
Not allowing for expansion gaps
Using low-quality adhesives
Misaligned seams or poor locking joints

Professional installation is highly recommended, especially in commercial environments where mistakes can be costly. DIY shortcuts might save money upfront—but often cost more later.

Disadvantages of Luxury Vinyl Tile

While LVT has many strengths, here are some drawbacks worth considering:

Not biodegradable or recyclable, making it a less sustainable choice
Can off-gas VOCs during or shortly after installation
Not as long-lasting as stone or hardwood flooring
Limited refinishing options—once the wear layer is worn, you’ll need to replace it
Fading risk in areas exposed to constant sunlight
Challenging to repair in adhesive-based installations

If environmental impact or extremely long-term durability are top priorities, alternative materials may be a better fit.

Conclusion: Is Luxury Vinyl Tile Worth It?

Yes—if you buy smart, install it right, and maintain it well.

Luxury vinyl tile offers an outstanding balance of durability, style, and cost-effectiveness. With a quality product (preferably from a reputable manufacturer), proper subfloor prep, and mindful day-to-day care, LVT can easily last 15 to 25 years—even in busy, high-traffic spaces.

It's not perfect. It won’t last a lifetime like hardwood. But it delivers reliable performance and strong visual appeal for decades, not years.

If you're looking for a floor that can handle pets, kids, commercial wear, or just everyday life—without demanding too much from you—luxury vinyl tile is a smart, modern solution.

See Blog: How to Protect LVT Flooring from Scratches for more information on how to protect your floors!