The LVT Flooring Industry Glossary provides a comprehensive list of essential terms used in the luxury vinyl tile (LVT) sector. Whether you are a flooring manufacturer, distributor, installer, or designer, understanding key LVT flooring terminology helps ensure clear communication and professional decision-making throughout the supply chain. This glossary covers important concepts related to LVT structure, production technology, installation methods, and performance standards — making it a valuable reference for anyone working in the vinyl flooring industry.
| Term | Definition / Explanation |
| LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) | A high-quality vinyl flooring product designed to replicate natural materials like wood or stone with superior durability and aesthetics. |
| Vinyl Flooring | A general term for flooring made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), including LVT, SPC, and WPC types. |
| PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | The main raw material used to produce vinyl flooring. |
| Heterogeneous Vinyl Flooring | Flooring made of multiple layers with different compositions for improved performance. |
| Homogeneous Vinyl Flooring | Flooring made from a single layer of material, consistent in color and composition. |
| Wear Layer | The transparent protective top layer that resists scratches, stains, and wear. |
| UV Coating | A protective layer cured by ultraviolet light that enhances scratch and stain resistance. |
| Decor Film / Decorative Layer | The printed layer that provides the flooring’s realistic wood, marble, or tile design. |
| Backing Layer | The bottom layer that provides balance, stability, and protection against moisture. |
| Fiberglass Reinforcement | A stabilizing layer added to LVT to improve dimensional stability and reduce curling. |
| Embossed in Register (EIR) | A surface texture that aligns perfectly with the printed design for a natural feel. |
| Bevel Edge / Micro Bevel | Slightly angled edges that enhance realism and plank definition. |
| Loose Lay LVT | LVT flooring that can be installed without glue or locking systems, held in place by weight and friction. |
| Glue Down LVT | Flooring installed using adhesive directly applied to the subfloor. |
| Click LVT | LVT with an interlocking system allowing floating installation without glue. |
| Floating Installation | Installation method where planks or tiles float above the subfloor, not glued or nailed. |
| Dry Back Flooring | Another term for glue-down LVT flooring. |
| Self-Adhesive Vinyl Tile | Tiles with a peel-and-stick backing for easy installation. |
| Subfloor Preparation | The process of cleaning and leveling the base floor before installation. |
| Underlayment | A thin layer placed beneath flooring to provide sound insulation and comfort. |
| Dimensional Stability | The ability of flooring to maintain its size and shape under temperature and humidity changes. |
| Water Resistance | The capability of LVT flooring to resist water damage, making it suitable for wet areas. |
| Slip Resistance (R Rating) | A measurement of flooring’s resistance to slipping, usually rated from R9 to R12. |
| Fire Resistance (Bfl-s1) | A European fire classification rating commonly achieved by LVT products. |
| Indentation Resistance | The flooring’s ability to resist marks or dents from heavy furniture or traffic. |
| Acoustic Performance | The ability of flooring to reduce impact noise and sound transmission. |
| Thermal Comfort | The warm and soft underfoot feel that enhances comfort compared to ceramic or wood. |
| VOC Emissions | The release of volatile organic compounds; low-VOC flooring improves indoor air quality. |
| Formaldehyde Free | Indicates that the flooring does not emit formaldehyde, meeting environmental standards. |
| Phthalate Free | Flooring manufactured without harmful plasticizers, ensuring safer indoor air. |
| Anti-Bacterial Coating | A surface treatment preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. |
| Recyclable Vinyl Flooring | Flooring that can be reused or recycled after its lifecycle, promoting sustainability. |
| EN 649 / EN ISO 10582 | European standards defining requirements for vinyl flooring performance. |
| Slip Coefficient | The numerical value representing the slip resistance level of the flooring surface. |
| Heat Welding | A technique used to join seams in commercial sheet vinyl flooring for waterproofing. |
| Floor Pattern Layout | The design arrangement of tiles or planks during installation to achieve aesthetic effect. |
| Transition Strip | A finishing accessory used to connect LVT flooring to other types of flooring. |
| Skirting Board / Baseboard | Trim used along walls to cover the expansion gap and provide a clean finish. |
| Maintenance & Care | Regular cleaning and protection methods to extend flooring lifespan. |
For information regarding the structure, performance, thickness, installation, use, purchase, and manufacturing of LVT flooring, you can contact Trioflor. As a manufacturer with over 20 years of experience in LVT flooring production, Trioflor can provide you with professional answers.
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