Luxury vinyl tile or LVT flooring is becoming increasing popular with homeowners and property developers. It can help to transform any space with its authentic appearance and robust nature. Here is a guide to luxury vinyl tile flooring:
What is Luxury Vinyl Tile?
LVT flooring is a floor that looks like real wood or stone tiles, but without the practical drawbacks of a natural product. The innovative design of LVT means that it is hardwearing, versatile and resilient to daily wear and tear. The surface has a scratch resistant coating and is waterproof so ideal for areas with excess water. The actual planks or tiles of LVT are thin and flexible, so ideal for going over an existing floor.
You will find LVT in a variety of different effects, such as wood planks and ceramic tiles. The wood plank effect LVT is the shape of a plank of wood with a click fitting system. It can be found in various species of wood, colours, styles and grain patterns. You can also find different plank widths and lengths to suit the requirements of your room. The stone and tile effect LVT is uniform sized tiles with a choice of colour and design.
LVT is easy to install with a click fitting system. You have the choice of floating it over an underlay or gluing it to the subfloor. Once installed, you will find it very easy to look after. Have a look at our LVT cleaning guide.
How is LVT flooring made?
Each brand of LVT is made in a slightly different way. Generally speaking, it is made from multiple layers which have been compressed together. The top layer is usually a transparent protective coating which has built in scratch resistance and stain guarding technology. Underneath there is a design layer to give the appearance of either wood or stone. The bottom layers are used to stabilise and strengthen the flooring. During the manufacturing process of LVT, a click fitting system is added to the tiles, offering an easy and simple way to install the floor.
Where can I use LVT flooring?
Luxury vinyl tile flooring can be used in any room in your home. It is extremely robust and versatile while having the added benefit of being waterproof. It is a great option for busy spaces such as hallways, living rooms, conservatories, kitchens and bedrooms. Its waterproof qualities mean that it is also the perfect choice for bathrooms, utility rooms and porch areas. Additionally, you can use LVT with underfloor heating systems and even on staircases.
There are so many different styles and patterns of LVT flooring that there is sure to be something to complement any room in your home.
Some types of LVT have been designed specifically for commercial use. They can withstand even more footfall and have added surface protection.
Quick guide to luxury vinyl tile flooring:
• practical and versatile flooring
• detailed and realistic wood, stone and tile effect
• more durable than a wooden floor
• scratch resistant
• waterproof
• tolerant to temperature change
• suitable for any room in your home
• easy to install – can be glued down or floated
• warmer underfoot that wood or stone
• compatible with underfloor heating systems
• low maintenance and easy to look after
• great for pet owners
• hygienic and easy to clean
