Does luxury vinyl tile have to be grouted?

We love that luxury vinyl (LVF) has the design option of being cut into different forms because we, and many, think the extra seams add even more to the already realistic look. But, of course, the question of grout always comes up in our showroom; LVT, or luxury vinyl tile, is cut into square, tile-sized pieces that can be used either with or without grout.

The other form, called luxury vinyl plank or LVP, refers to the vinyl being cut into strips and mounted on boards to mimic hardwood, although many also use LVP for stone echoes.

Affordable style


This premium product is highly affordable and 100% waterproof. With images inspired by nature, it offers true-to-life photos of wood, stone, and tile with micro beveling and embossing to add depth and dimension. LVF also comes with textured looks such as wire-brushed, hand scraped, weathered and distressed and is available in matte, gloss, and high gloss finishes.

LVF follows all the trends, and feel free to explore our inventory with manufacturers such as Mannington, COREtec, Chesapeake, Armstrong, and more.

Durable & waterproof: great for homes with kids and pets


Five times thicker than original vinyl, this is a multi-layered product. At the top is a transparent, robust, melamine wear layer that protects the floor from scratches and scuffs and keeps spills from absorbing. On top of that is a urethane finish which adds shine and extra strength.

True LVF should measure at least 8-mm in thickness; wear layers have separate measurements, with the most robust being 20-mils. Made from waterproof materials, it is impervious whether it's submerged or spilled on.

Other benefits include easy care with all that's needed is a regular sweeping and periodic mopping with a manufacturer-approved cleaner. Avoid wax, shine promoting cleaners as they can damage the finish and dull the floor.

Installation is also easy, especially when it's a floating floor. Here, the pieces click together, mat, and hover over a clean, dry, and level subfloor without nails or glue.

We love luxury vinyl flooring and know you will too. Since 1988, The Carpet Store has provided Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties residents with high-quality products and superior services, such as craftsman-like installation and free estimates. So let's get your creative juices flowing! We have three showrooms: Tampa, St. Petersburg, and New Port Richey, FL, and we service Odessa, Pinellas Park, Tarpon Springs, Lutz, Seminole, and Trinity.