CDS Hardwood Floors
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Installation in MD, VA & DC
Quick Answer
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a waterproof, dent-resistant multi-layer plank that mimics hardwood — ideal for basements, kitchens, bathrooms, rentals and homes with large pets.
We're primarily a hardwood company, but we install LVP where it makes sense: below-grade basements, wet areas, high-abuse commercial spaces and homes where the client wants a wood look with zero maintenance.
Modern LVP from COREtec, Shaw and Mohawk is a genuinely good product — 100% waterproof, click-lock installation, 20-year warranties. It's not hardwood, but it's the honest choice for many applications.
Key Takeaways
- LVP is not hardwood — but it's the right choice for basements and wet areas
- Wear-layer thickness is the single most important spec
- Subfloor flatness matters as much as with hardwood
Benefits
- • 100% waterproof — safe for basements, bathrooms and kitchens
- • Dent- and scratch-resistant surface
- • No refinishing ever required
- • Installs directly over most existing hard surfaces
- • Warmer and softer underfoot than tile
Our Process
1. Subfloor prep
Level to within 3/16" over 10' — LVP telegraphs unevenness.
2. Underlayment
Attached-pad or separate acoustic underlayment as required.
3. Click-lock install
Floating install with proper expansion gaps.
4. Transitions
T-mold, reducer or threshold at every doorway.
Ready to talk about your project?
Materials We Use
- • COREtec Plus and Pro
- • Shaw Floorté
- • Mohawk RevWood and SolidTech
What to Expect
- • 1–3 day install for most homes
- • Walk on immediately after install
- • No off-gassing with reputable brands (look for FloorScore certification)
What Affects Pricing
We don't publish flat pricing — every home is different. These are the factors we weigh in your written estimate:
- • Product tier (thickness, wear layer)
- • Subfloor prep required
- • Removal of existing flooring
Common Problems & How We Solve Them
Peaking or gapping
Insufficient expansion gap or subfloor issue. We install to spec.
Cheap product denting from furniture
Wear layer matters. We recommend 20-mil or thicker in living areas.
Maintenance Tips
- • Sweep and damp mop with any pH-neutral cleaner
- • Felt pads on furniture (LVP can dent under heavy point loads)
Warranty & Guarantee
All CDS craftsmanship is backed by our workmanship guarantee. Manufacturer finish warranties are transferred to you in full.
Why Choose CDS Hardwood Floors
Family-owned, licensed (MHIC #141267), fully insured and bonded, with 15+ years serving Maryland, Virginia, DC, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Our craftsmanship has earned us landmark commercial work (including DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC) alongside thousands of luxury residential projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does luxury vinyl plank installation take in a typical home?
Most residential projects are completed within 3–7 working days, depending on square footage, drying times and any repairs required. We provide a firm timeline in your written estimate.
Do I need to move out during luxury vinyl plank installation?
In most cases, no. Our dustless equipment keeps the home habitable, though we recommend staying off finished areas for 24–72 hours to let the finish cure.
Can I schedule a consultation?
Yes. Every luxury vinyl plank installation project starts with a free on-site consultation and a detailed written quote, usually delivered within 24 hours.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. CDS Hardwood Floors is a Maryland-licensed contractor (MHIC #141267), fully insured and bonded for your protection.
Related Services
Engineered Hardwood Installation
Engineered hardwood is a multi-layer plank with a real hardwood veneer over a stable plywood core — required over concrete slabs, radiant heat and in basements, and increasingly popular for wide-plank looks.
Subfloor Repair
Subfloor repair addresses damage or deficiencies in the plywood or OSB layer beneath your hardwood — water rot, sagging joists, delaminated panels — before new flooring is installed.