The Complete Guide to Understanding and Installing EVP Flooring
Is EVP flooring the right choice for your home or business? Get the full scoop in this definitive guide.
Engineered vinyl plank (EVP) flooring has surged in popularity in recent years as an affordable, attractive, and easy-to-install alternative to traditional flooring. But what exactly is EVP, and how does it differ from other types of vinyl plank flooring?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about EVP flooring, including a comparison to similar products, benefits and drawbacks, installation tips, top brands, care recommendations, and more. Let’s dive in!
What is EVP Flooring?
EVP stands for “engineered vinyl plank.” It is a type of resilient flooring that combines multiple layers to create a durable, high-performance product.
The layers of EVP flooring typically include:
- Protective wear layer: Clear vinyl topcoat that resists scratches, stains, and dents.
- Decor layer: Realistic-looking printed design layer resembling materials like wood or stone.
- Vinyl core: Provides the structure and rigidity. Made of limestone composites.
- Rigid composite core: Adds stability and shock absorption. Usually made of limestone and virgin PVC.
- Backing layer: Attaches the plank to the subfloor.
Unlike laminate, EVP contains no wood fibers, making it waterproof and ideal for kitchens, baths, basements and commercial use. It provides the beauty of wood or tile with greater durability.
EVP vs. LVP: What’s the Difference?
LVP stands for “luxury vinyl plank.” Many use EVP and LVP interchangeably, but there are some key differences:
| EVP | LVP |
|---|---|
| Rigid composite core for strength | Foam or blown-vinyl core |
| Thicker wear layer for durability | Thinner wear layer |
| Advanced printing technology | Photographic film layer |
| Locking mechanism for easy DIY install | Glue down or floating install |
| Higher cost | Lower cost |
While both offer cost savings over traditional flooring, EVP provides greater rigidity, durability, and water resistance. LVP is more affordable but may dent, scratch or deform over time.
The Benefits of Choosing EVP Flooring
There are many great reasons to consider EVP flooring for your next flooring project:
Waterproof: The vinyl construction and layered locking system create a waterproof seal, making EVP ideal for any damp areas.
Realistic looks: Printing technology allows EVP to mimic hardwood, tile, and stone with incredible realism. New enhanced embossing creates depth and texture.
Comfort: EVP absorbs sound and has some “give” for comfort underfoot. The attached padding also helps reduce fatigue.
DIY friendly: EVP’s click-lock or glueless systems make DIY installation straightforward. Floating floors can go over existing flooring.
Cost savings: EVP provides the look of premium floors for less. The materials are cheaper than natural wood, stone or ceramic.
Durability: With its rigid core and thick wear layer, EVP resists dents, gouges and moisture damage better than laminate or LVP. It can last decades with proper care.
Sustainability: EVP contains recycled content and has low VOC emissions. It also reduces the need for hardwood harvesting.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While EVP offers outstanding performance and value, there are a few potential disadvantages to note:
Resale value: Some buyers perceive EVP as less valuable than real hardwood. This perception may affect resale.
Lifespan: With proper maintenance, EVP can last decades. But natural wood may last longer, especially solid woods.
Not fully customisable: EVP has size limitations and cannot be sanded or refinished like real wood.
Expansion and contraction: Temperature changes can cause slight gaps between EVP planks. Proper installation is key.
Noise: EVP can make clicking noises when walked on. Proper installation helps reduce this.
How to Install EVP Flooring
Installing EVP flooring is a DIY-friendly project with a few key steps:
1. Prepare the subfloor: The subfloor must be flat, clean and dry. Fill any cracks or holes.
2. Lay vapor barrier: For concrete subfloors, install a vapor barrier like 6mm poly sheeting.
3. Lay underlayment: Use underlayment to cushion EVP and reduce sound.
4. Dry lay planks: Lay out planks without clicking together to visualize layout. Mix planks from multiple boxes.
5. Click planks together: Lock short ends together first. Engage long side by laying at an angle and drop down flat.
6. Allow expansion gaps: Leave 1/4″ gaps between flooring and walls or fixed objects.
7. Install trim: Add transition strips between rooms and flooring types. Install quarter round along baseboards.
For best results, follow the manufacturer’s detailed installation instructions. Consider having a flooring professional handle tricky areas like doorways.
Top Brands for EVP Flooring
Many leading flooring brands now offer quality EVP flooring lines:
- Shaw EVP: Offers Floorte Pro and Floorigami collections with leading technology. 25 year residential warranty.
- Mohawk EVP: Provides Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl with Uniclic locking system. LifeProof product line is popular.
- CoreLuxe: Focuses solely on EVP with innovative ValuCore technology. 30 year warranty.
- SmartCore: Leading manufacturer specializing in EVP flooring with high-performance Titanium core.
- Pergo Extreme: Offers unique mineral-based core with Extreme Protection to resist dents.
Be sure to compare warranties when choosing EVP flooring. Many offer warranties of 15 years or more.
Maintaining and Caring for EVP Floors
EVP is one of the easiest flooring types to maintain:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch floors.
- Use damp mopping with warm water and mild vinyl floor cleaner for routine cleaning. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- For scuffs, use a magic eraser or gentle cleaner. Avoid excessive moisture.
- Place walk-off mats at entrances to reduce tracked-in dirt. Use felt pads under furniture.
- Check manufacturer guidelines as some EVP can be re-coated to renew scratch resistance.
- Avoid using rubber-backed mats or casters on furniture, which can stain.
With proper care, EVP flooring will provide lasting beauty and performance for years to come. The advanced durability also makes it ideal for commercial spaces.
Conclusion
EVP flooring offers homeowners and businesses an affordable, attractive, and easy-to-install flooring option perfect for any room. With realistic hardwood and stone looks backed by rigid composite construction, EVP provides long-lasting durability and waterproof performance.
Minor drawbacks like sound and expansion issues can be addressed with proper installation and maintenance. Overall, EVP presents outstanding value compared to traditional flooring.
For those seeking the warmth and luxury of wood or tile with improved strength, longevity, and moisture resistance, EVP is sure to satisfy. Consider it for your next basement, kitchen, bathroom or commercial space flooring project. In the realm of vinyl flooring, both LVP and EVP provide valuable options, with EVP leading in areas requiring more rigidity and longevity. Whether you’re renovating an old space or constructing a new one, considering the various aspects of EVP can guide you to a flooring solution that combines beauty with practicality.
