Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
What are Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)?
Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are a type of flooring material that replicates the appearance of natural materials like hardwood, stone, or ceramic tiles. They are made primarily of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), a durable and versatile synthetic material. The tiles typically consist of multiple layers, including a backing layer, a vinyl core layer, a design layer with a printed pattern, and a wear layer on top for protection. LVT is designed to provide a high-end and luxurious look while offering several practical benefits. Popular brands include Amtico and Karndean.
Benefits of Luxury Vinyl Tiles
Luxury vinyl tiles offer many benefits and are a very versatile flooring option. Here are just some of the advantages:
Realistic appearance: LVT is engineered to closely resemble natural materials like wood or stone. The design layer incorporates high-resolution images or textures that mimic the look and feel of these materials. Advanced printing techniques and embossing technology help create a more authentic appearance.
Durability: Luxury vinyl tiles are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The wear layer provides excellent protection against scratches, stains, and dents, making LVT suitable for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings. It is often rated for heavy-duty or commercial use.
Water resistance: One of the significant advantages of LVT is its resistance to moisture and water damage. The vinyl composition makes it highly waterproof, allowing for installation in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. However, it’s important to note that water resistance may vary between different LVT products, so checking the manufacturer’s specifications is advisable.
Easy maintenance: Luxury vinyl tiles are relatively low maintenance. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is typically sufficient to keep the floor clean. The protective wear layer helps resist stains and makes it easier to remove dirt and spills.
Comfort and noise reduction: LVT offers a more comfortable feel underfoot compared to harder flooring materials like ceramic tiles or laminate. The vinyl composition provides a slightly cushioned surface that absorbs impact and reduces noise transmission, making it quieter to walk on.
Installation options: Luxury vinyl tiles come in various installation formats, including glue-down, click-lock, and loose lay. Glue-down tiles require adhesive to affix them to the subfloor, while click-lock tiles feature interlocking edges that snap together. Loose lay tiles rely on their weight and friction to stay in place without adhesive.
Care and Maintenance of Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
To keep your LVT flooring looking its best, it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s specific care instructions as they may have recommendations tailored to their product. On a day to day basis follow the tips below to maintain the longevity of your flooring:
Regular Cleaning: You should sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt and debris. You can also use a damp mop or cloth with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for vinyl floors. Avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals and wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining or damage.
Preventive Measures: Place doormats at entryways to trap dirt and moisture before they reach the floor. Use furniture pads or felt protectors under the legs of your furniture to prevent scratching. You should also avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor, as this can cause scratches.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Although LVT is water-resistant, excessive moisture can still seep into the seams and cause damage. Wipe up spills promptly and avoid using excessive water when cleaning. Use a damp mop or cloth, rather than soaking the floor. Be cautious with wet cleaning methods like steam mops, as excessive moisture and heat can damage the flooring.
Protecting Against Scratches: While LVT is more scratch-resistant than hardwood or laminate flooring, it’s still advisable to take precautions. Place protective mats or rugs in high-traffic areas and underneath chairs with casters. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool or scrub brushes that could scratch the surface.
Sunlight Protection: Direct sunlight over an extended period can cause fading or discoloration of the LVT floor. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-protective window films to minimise direct sunlight exposure, especially in areas with large windows.
Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the LVT floor for any signs of damage, loose tiles, or worn-out areas. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for repairs or replacement. Consider reapplying a topcoat or protective finish as recommended by the manufacturer to enhance the longevity of the flooring. Specialist products are often sold by the manufacturer’s on their websites for this purpose.
Fitting Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)
Fitting luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) is a relatively straightforward process, however it is often best left to the professionals especially if the subfloor needs preparatory work. It is important to always refer to the specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of your luxury vinyl tiles, as techniques and requirements can vary. However, here’s a general guide on how to fit luxury vinyl tiles:
Prepare the surface: Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Remove any existing flooring, adhesive residue, or debris. Repair any cracks or uneven areas.
Measure and plan: Measure the room’s dimensions and determine the center point. This will help you lay out the tiles symmetrically. Consider using a chalk line or a laser level to mark guidelines on the floor.
Acclimate the tiles: Luxury vinyl tiles need to acclimate to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 24-48 hours. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific acclimation requirements.
Install the tiles: Begin laying the tiles from a centre point, working towards the walls. This helps ensure a balanced and aesthetically pleasing installation. Use a notched trowel to spread adhesive on the subfloor in manageable sections. Place the first tile at the centre point and press it firmly into the adhesive. Use a tile roller or a wooden block wrapped in a cloth to ensure good adhesion. Continue adding tiles, aligning them properly, and leaving a small gap (about 1/8 inch) between each tile for expansion.
Cut tiles as needed: When you reach the edges of the room or encounter obstacles like doorways or corners, you may need to cut tiles to fit. Measure and mark the tiles accurately before using a utility knife, tile cutter, or a vinyl tile cutter to make the cuts. Remember to wear appropriate safety gear when cutting.
Repeat the process: Continue spreading adhesive, laying tiles, and cutting as necessary until the entire floor is covered. Take breaks periodically to check the alignment, remove any excess adhesive, and make adjustments if needed.
Allow for curing time: Once all the tiles are laid, allow the adhesive to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes around 24-48 hours, but the specific time may vary.
Apply finishing touches: Install transition strips or mouldings at the room’s edges to provide a clean and professional look. You may also need to apply sealant or grout to fill any gaps between the tiles, depending on the type of luxury vinyl tiles you’re using. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for any additional steps.
What rooms are suitable for Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)?
Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) are a versatile flooring material that can be installed in various rooms within a home or commercial space. Here are some rooms where LVT is commonly used:
Living Room: LVT can provide a stylish and durable flooring solution for living rooms, offering a wide range of designs that can mimic the look of hardwood, stone, or tile.
Kitchen: LVT is an excellent choice for kitchens due to its water-resistant properties. It can handle spills and moisture without warping or damage, making it a practical and attractive flooring option.
Bathroom: LVT’s water resistance makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms, where moisture levels can be high. It can withstand humidity and frequent exposure to water, providing a long-lasting and visually appealing flooring surface.
Hallway: High-traffic areas like entryways and hallways benefit from LVT’s durability and resistance to scratches and scuffs. It can handle the constant foot traffic while maintaining its appearance.
Basement: LVT is an excellent option for basements, as it resists moisture and can be installed directly over concrete floors. It can help create a comfortable and inviting space while protecting against potential moisture-related issues.
Commercial Spaces: LVT is commonly used in various commercial environments, such as offices, retail stores, and hospitality venues. Its durability, ease of maintenance, and wide range of design options make it a popular choice for these settings.
Remember that while LVT is suitable for many rooms, proper installation and subfloor preparation are essential for optimal performance. If you would like help and advice on selecting the right flooring for your home or workspace, get in touch with our expert team today.