For modern homes seeking durability and style, LVT floor tiles are a practical solution. Provided as an alternative to laminate, stone and wood alike, they are relatively new on the market but increasing in popularity swiftly. Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we strive to bring you the widest and most comprehensive collection of flooring options on the market. And LVT floor tiles fit into that perfectly. They ensure you can achieve luxury in any space with a solution that promises to stand the test of time. Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these versatile tiles.
What are LVT tiles?
LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile. They are an alternative floor option, designed to visually emulate the look of other flooring types but with heightened stability. These tiles were originally introduced as a water-resistant alternative to laminate flooring with a wide breadth of style options available.
How are they manufactured?
Each tile is manufactured from numerous layers of PVC vinyl. Combining this PVC with additional compounds helps to enhance their strength, change colour and improve flexibility in comparison to laminate. In addition, each layer is rolled on through a compression process. The vinyl is then suspended in a liquid which creates a unique mixture that is rolled on in a thin layer. The top layer is applied and can be customised to mimic that of other flooring options. For example, it can be given an embossed finish to create stone or wood-like finishes.
All LVT times have a clear urethane and vinyl coating that protects the product and also makes them comfortable underfoot.
What rooms do they work best in?
Bathrooms
As we mentioned above, LVT floor tiles were originally designed as a waterproof alternative to laminate. Therefore, they were very well in environments where moisture content is high and could cause issues with the maintenance of other options. Bathrooms are one such choice – LVT tiles allow you to create a wooden or stone-style floor without the need for additional protection or maintenance to keep them safe.
Kitchens
For the same reasons as bathrooms, LVT floor tiles also look great in kitchens. They are recognised for being easy-to-clean, meaning you’ll be able to shift common cooking grease easily. However, it is worth noting that some kitchen-based stains can be more difficult to remove and may need cleaning with a mild detergent.
Bedrooms
While carpets are normally the flooring of choice for bedrooms due to desired warmth, they can present issues for those with allergies. LVT floor tiles are a practical alternative, allowing you to play with style without providing a haven for dust or mites.
Commercial Use
If you’re looking for something durable and suited to commercial settings, LVT tiles also tick the boxes. They are suited for use in hair salons and exercise studios – again, for their ability to be cleaned easily. And they won’t absorb moisture or change their shape due to liquid build-up.
How thin are LVT tiles?
As well as being easy to maintain, LVT tiles are also impressively thin. Laminate flooring is normally between 7 and 12mm in thickness. LVT floor tiles come in around 2 – 6mm. This is due to their construction which enhances the density and strength. In essence, they just don’t need to be thicker because their manufacture means they can easily withstand high-traffic use. Therefore, if you’re concerned about the way your doors will interact or want to ensure you won’t have to remove skirting, they are a practical option.
How are LVT floor tiles fitted?
In general, you’ll find that there are 2 different types of LVT installation. Ridgid LVT boards have a thinker density and can, therefore, be clicked together. Here, you’ll need to include a tailored LVT underlay for protection and to improve insulation. This method is more suited to sub floorings that are prone to excessive moisture, such as low-grade concrete. You can create a vapour barrier that allows liquid to evaporate and minimises the risk of damage later down the line.
Alternatively, thinner LVT tiles can be stuck down using specialist glues. They won’t provide as much cushioning but can be used in settings that don’t require transitional moldings. Additionally, glue down tiles are a budget-friendly option and can be removed easily if you decide to move house.
How to maintain LVT tiles in your home
The beauty of Luxury Vinyl Tiles is their durability – they are made with heightened strength that promises to stand the test of time. However, by taking a number of precautions and caring for your tiles properly, you can help them to stay immaculate in any space.
Cover furniture feet
Although they have a high scratch-resistance, sharp table and chair corners can still do damage when moved. Consider felt pads or rugs around the areas with commonly used furniture.
Remove high heels
Similarly, remember to remove any shoes that could cause damage. Think about high heels and football shoes.
Use approved cleaner
There are specialist LVT tile cleaners available on the market which is designed especially to maintain these modern floors. Use them as instructed and avoid harsh chemicals that can do more damage than they’re worth.
Use doormats near entrances and exits
Encourage guests to loosen the dirt, sand and debris off their shoes before entering your home. This will minimise the risk of damage significantly – and not just for your LVT tiles.
Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we offer a wide variation of LVT floor tiles for your home. Added textures allow you to create a realistic finish while abiding by your budget and still benefiting from the beauty of wood or stone. Our experienced team can bring a selection of samples to your home, allowing you to find the perfect option for any room. And we offer a fully comprehensive service that covers everything from the survey through to installation by our professional fitting team.
Book an appointment to view our Luxury Vinyl Tiles range via the Virtuoso Flooring on the website here.
