What is Safety Flooring?

Specifically engineered to help reduce the risk of injuries and keep everyone safe in bustling environments, safety flooring is often referred to as anti-slip flooring. While this attribute is true, it tends to offer so much more than just a heightened abrasive surface. Safety flooring is a highly resilient and stain-resistant solution for businesses where spills and contamination are commonplace. It is there as a hardwearing and practical option, fitting in with both budget and safety requirements alongside the legal restrictions put in place in certain settings. In short, safety flooring is a heavy-duty solution for the toughest of environments.

Where is it used?

There are many commercial environments where safety flooring comes into play.

Hospitals

The risk of spillages of bodily fluids, medicines and other potentially harmful liquids is high in hospital environments. From inside operating theatres through to the wards, there is a need for a floor to provide the stability and safety needed to treat patients safely. Antibacterial floors reduce the risk of cross-contamination while an impervious surface prevents liquids and other harmful substances from ingraining themselves within the walkways. It is also important that nurses, Drs and other healthcare professionals can move around this bustling environment safely with secure and non-slip grounds for them to walk in.

Supermarkets

How many times have you been in a supermarket and either dropped or seen someone drop a product? While many supermarkets deal with these spills quickly and efficiently, safety flooring is designed to offer a buffer and reduce the risk of hazards further. It also offers that impervious layer we mentioned above, reducing the risk of stains and marks if food products do come into contact with the floor. And, safety flooring in these environments allows trolleys, pushchairs and wheelchairs to be easily manoeuvred without an increased risk of slipping.

Commercial Kitchens

Another environment where spills and pools of liquid are common is within commercial kitchens. From cooking oils through to washing up liquids and spills of food, the risk of slips, trips and falls here is high. Safety flooring provides a clean, safe and reliable solution to help those within the catering industry meet the needs of their guests with more ease. Again, the impervious surface prevents staining while the heightened durability of safety flooring also minimises the risk of damage due to impact – for example, if a knife or heavy cooking pan was accidentally dropped.

Leisure Clubs/Swimming Pools

Walking to and from a swimming pool, stepping out of a shower or even moving around after an intense workout session. All of these activities carry with them a heightened risk of slips and trips. Any moisture on the ground, specifically if the water is found on both the ground and the feet of those walking by, can inhibit stability and reduce contact. In swimming pools specifically, the risk of slipping by young children who are running or playing is increased. And the potential impact of these falls can be significant. Safety flooring offers an anti-slip solution that still works when wet and doesn’t encourage the growth of mould, mildew or other moisture-related organisms.

What are the Main Properties?

The range of safety flooring available on the market is vast. There is a solution to suit every commercial environment, specifically tailored to offer the exact features needed. At Virtuoso Flooring, our selection has been tested to meet the most stringent criteria with a host of technical specs and features to choose from. The main properties you will find with safety flooring include:

• High slip resistance throughout the lifespan of the flooring, even when wet.
• High resilience against foot traffic and impact.
• Good stain resistance over time.
• Reliable antibacterial surface to minimise the risk of cross-contamination.
• An impervious finish to minimise absorption, staining or further damage.

Many of our options are also fitted with capping and coves to the wall. This acts as a barrier against moisture and dirt penetration, further extending the lifespan of the floor and reducing the build-up of unwanted contaminants over time.

Selecting the Right Safety Flooring?

Safety flooring doesn’t just fall into a single category. There are a host of choices out there and it’s important that you choose the right one. There is also a financial implication that comes with choosing these specialist floor options. And, while they are unavoidable for many businesses, some of the other commercial flooring styles such as resilient flooring or carpet tiles may better fit your needs. Ask yourself questions such as:

• How frequently do we experience spills in the workplace?
• Is there an increased risk of viral or bacterial contamination in our environment?
• Have we logged a high number of slips, trips or falls in the past year?
• What measures do we have in place already to prevent accidents due to slips, trips and falls?

Gaining a good understanding of what you’re looking for from your new flooring option is the best way to begin working your way through the range of options. Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have over 20 years of experience in supporting commercial businesses when choosing the right safety flooring. Our Bath-based team also has the capacity to visit your workplace to understand your project with a selection of samples that you can view, touch and experience before making the final choice.

If you’re interested in learning more about safety flooring or would like to speak to one of our commercial floor installers today, you can request a callback or contact us directly via our website today.

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Choosing The Best Flooring For Your Rental Property

Before you delve into the carpet shops, you need to establish the right type of flooring for your property. This will depend on several factors – although one of the most important is certainly cost. You also need to take into account:

• The style and type of property
• The total size/floor space of the property
• Who you expect your tenants to be – young families, students, single tenants, etc.

For example, if you’re renting a large period home, you’ll likely want to ensure the flooring stays in keeping with the surrounding architecture. Equally, if you expect to have small children running around the halls of a two-up, two-down detached home, you may want to consider carpet to prevent injury. All of these considerations will help drive you towards the best type of flooring to choose. Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have a large number of landlord clients who regularly ask us to source high-quality, durable and cost-effective carpets. So, let’s take a look at some of the benefits below.

Benefits Of Carpet In Rented Accommodations

At first glance, carpet may not feel like the most suitable option. After all, with all those fibres, there is an increased need for maintenance and a higher risk of stains if this isn’t followed. However, it is actually one of the most popular and versatile choices available. Carpet can:

• Make a property feel cosy and homely
• Help to withhold heat, reducing the household bills for your tenants
• Reduce noise – especially important

Carpets can help a house feel like a home. It can encourage viewers to sign on the dotted line and help them envision a family space where their kids can grow.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Carpet

There are certain factors you should take into consideration when choosing carpet for your property. Firstly, most landlords understand that the likelihood of a tenant caring for the property as if it were their own is slim. You need to invest in hardwearing, durable and long-lasting options that can withstand rough foot traffic. Consider whether or not you would expect a family with young children to make sure dirty boots are taken off before they enter the property. Or, whether a ‘no shoes upstairs’ rule is necessarily going to be mandatory.

Many landlords opt for carpet in certain rooms – such as bedrooms and living rooms. This helps these relaxing spaces to feel homely without risking excessive damage. On top of location, you should:

• Choose a carpet with low-pile to help with easy cleaning
• Opt for synthetic fibres (such as nylon or polypropylene). These have high stain resistance and durability against traffic and heavy furniture
• A dense carpet will be more durable. Take this into consideration
• Consider comfort – especially in the bedroom
• Opt for durable base material – one manufactured from fibre will hold up the longest while foam bases are more comfortable
• Consider the colour – grey is always a popular and versatile choice while neutral tones allow tenants to put their twist on the property

Best Carpet Options For Rental-Properties

Once you have decided that carpet is the best choice for rooms within your property, here is our suggestion of the best carpet options on the market.

Polypropylene Carpets

High resistance to stains and exceptional durability are just two of the reasons we recommend polypropylene carpets. They are very easy to clean and hold onto their colour well. On top of this, you’ll generally find that they are very cost-effective and offer good value for money – even if you’re carpeting a larger area.

Loop Pile Carpets

These durable carpets have a twisted yard design that creates an even pile surface. If you opt for a low and densely woven loop, you’ll have a carpet that is hard wearing and durable. They are perfect for rooms with high foot traffic, such as landings and hallways, or in homes that allow pets.

High-Density Carpets

Calculated by combining the number of fibres woven in a single area and the weight of each one, denser carpets are more durable. You can get high pile, dense carpets that feel more comfortable underfoot, but they don’t tend to offer the longevity that lower-pile styles do. You want something that will look great through numerous tenants – otherwise, you’ll end up spending more to replace it regularly.

How Can Virtuoso Flooring Help?

With over 20 years of experience in our industry, Virtuoso Flooring has long been providing low-cost and durable carpet options to landlords. From residential through to commercial properties, we offer a wide variety of colours, designs and styles. With our team of specialists, we’re able to match your needs with the right carpet – in terms of colour, durability and stain resistance.

Carpet is such a versatile flooring option that helps bring warmth into a property, protects the flooring underneath and reduces noise pollution for neighbours too. With our help, we’ll find you the best floor that ticks every single box, whether you’re dressing a flat in Longwell Green or a 3-bedroom family home in Peasedown St. John. For more information, book an appointment with us today. Or get in contact with your local Virtuoso Flooring carpet fitter who can schedule a visit to your location for a consultation that includes quotations and our expert advice too. You can also request a callback or contact us on 01225972715.

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Living Room-Specific Demands For Flooring

We’ve mentioned above that the living room is one of the most highly frequented rooms in the house. For many, it is the natural gravitation point and a space of calm. Therefore, you need to account for high foot traffic. The floor you choose needs to be durable and hardwearing, capable of being used countless times in a day without damage. Living rooms are also used by all members of the family. Small toys, animal claws and even the daily crafting session all need to be taken into account. You want a floor that can withstand these sorts of impacts and still come out the other end looking flawless.

And, let’s not forget about comfort. In the evenings, the living room is where you resign to watch the next episode in your favourite soap or the latest film release. It may even be your favourite reading spot. Therefore, you want a floor that feels cosy and one that helps you to switch off from the day’s activities.

How To Choose The Right Living Room Flooring?

Floor is a big decision for any household. Not only financially but also in terms of look. Some homeowners love the adventure of redecorating their space with running trends and finding unique ways to dress each room. Others opt for classic tones, choosing instead to redecorate once and love it for many years. The style of floor you choose will vary depending on preference. But it pays to think about how long-lasting and durable your chosen floor needs to be. Consider:

• Maintenance: As one of the busiest rooms in the house, you want a floor that is easy to maintain. If you have to wash it and leave it to dry for hours on end, you’ll find this space being used less and less. Also think about the type of products you want to use and how much time, per week, cleaning the living room needs to take up.
• Comfort: We mentioned it above and we’ll mention it again. Your living room should be cosy. It should be a place you can’t wait to kick off your shoes and settle down into. Therefore how cosy does the floor feel underfoot? Do you want to consider investing in underfloor heating to keep the temperature stable?
• Budget: All large-scale household decisions should be made with a budget in mind. There is no end to the options available, however, knowing how much you want to spend will help to narrow it down. Be mindful that a small budget doesn’t mean you have to go low quality – the right research and support will help you find the perfect choice without fail.

Types of Living Room Flooring

So, what are the best types of floor for living rooms?

Carpet

If we’re talking cosy, you have to consider carpet. With a wide range of luxury and cost-effective options available out there, the right carpet is heaven to your feet. The material brings warmth to a room, removing any echo and making a space feel more inviting instantly. If you choose the right type, maintenance will simply involve weekly hoovering and monthly washing. Make sure to consider the heavy foot traffic in these environments when choosing your style – thinner options are more likely to get worn down. Thicker choices will feel more supportive underfoot but may also hold on to dirt and stains more firmly.

LVT

LVT or luxury vinyl tiles are one of those floor options that are perfect for nearly every room – especially living rooms. They are hard wearing – perfect for high foot traffic. The range of styles allows you to play with tile, wood or coloured styles without worrying about the impact that spilt drinks or high temperatures may play. LVT flooring requires minimal maintenance – just a simple wipe and clean every week will suffice. And, they are incredibly long-lasting. If you’re worried about warmth, consider pairing them with underfloor heating.

Real wood

If you’re looking for true opulence, there’s no other option like real wood. Giving you a host of choices, style-wise and natural warmth, you can see why these are an ideal option. Being an elastic material, wood feels great to walk on and has very good durability to deal with high foot traffic. For added warmth, consider adding in rugs and additional soft furnishings for that feeling of comfort and luxury underfoot during colder nights.

Finding The Right Living Room Flooring For You

Living room flooring is just as unique as you and your family. It’s important to do your research, understanding all of the options available within your budget and choosing one that’s going to last. Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have a team of specialists with over 20 years of experience helping homeowners do just that. Whether you’re looking for a realistic LVT floor, a thick and luxurious carpet or a stylish wood floor to transform your space, we’re here to help. If you’re looking to remodel your living room and need more assistance, please do get in contact with our team here today.

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Kitchen-Specific Demands for Flooring

Every room in your home will serve a different person and be the home of various activities. The flooring you choose needs to support this and withstand daily use. The kitchen is no exception – in fact, it may be one of the most challenging environments in a home. Not only do you cook meals for your loved ones, which raises the internal temperature and creates grease /food-related splashes. Kitchens are also a place with high moisture content, from the washing-up, dishwashers and kettles. Temperature fluctuations can impact certain materials, such as wood, causing it to expand and contract. In the same belt, too much moisture can cause swelling in materials that don’t have good water resistance.

Additionally, kitchens are busy places. You’ll likely spend a significant portion of your time at home frequenting the kitchen. This means the flooring you choose needs to withstand high foot traffic. And, it needs to do this without becoming damaged easily or requiring excessive repairs.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Flooring?

At Virtuoso Flooring, we believe that flooring should be a personal choice for every household. While sticking to a budget may take priority for some, others may be looking to invest in something unique to match their statement interior design. However, there should always be a consideration for practicality. Think about:

• Maintenance – Expect spills, sprays and mess in your kitchen – even if you’re the most careful chef. How much time do you want to spend scrubbing marks from your floor? Do you have the time or money to invest in tailored cleaning products or do you want marks to lift with just the swipe of a wet cloth?
• Safety – If your new kitchen floor gets wet, how slippery will it become? Is this a particular hazard because of family members, such as the elderly or small children?
• Disruption – Having flooring laid will always cause some disruption to your daily life. However, some floors require more time to dry or set. How much time can you realistically set aside for this project before it becomes an inconvenience?
• Price – There are flooring options for every single budget. Do you have a clear understanding of your top-end budget or the exact amount you would like to spend? The right flooring supplier will be able to find the best option without asking you to spend more.
• Longevity – If you’re investing in flooring, you want it to last. Consider how hard-wearing and durable your chosen floor will be to ensure you only need to invest once.

Types of Kitchen Flooring

Let’s take a look at the different types of kitchen flooring available on the market today.

Laminate

Known for its exceptional strength, laminate flooring is a popular choice for kitchens. It provides a host of benefits, including stain resistance and scratch resistance. When paired with an underlay, laminate flooring offers good waterproof properties meaning it won’t damage if splashed during a vigorous washing up session. If you choose a soundproofing underlay, your new kitchen flooring will also help keep the rest of the home quiet and relaxing. The material’s durability can easily withstand heavy foot traffic and it comes in a diverse selection of colours and styles. You can choose to add pops of colour or create a wood-like effect without the price tag.

LVT

LVT or Luxury Vinyl Tiles are ideal for kitchen environments. As a new generation of vinyl flooring, it is manufactured from multiple sheets which give it heightened strength and durability. The materials used mean it has exceptional moisture resistance – again making it ideal for demanding kitchen environments. It is also less susceptible to damage caused by impacts, such as dropping a knife or plate. For longevity, LVT has good stain resistance and requires minimal cleaning to keep it looking its best. And, if you’re someone who ventures into the kitchen for your morning coffee, it has a cushioning feel underfoot that makes the experience more enjoyable all-round.

Wooden Flooring

While it may seem like an unusual choice, engineered wood is actually a practical option for kitchens. We’ve written a blog post about this topic here. Due to its construction, engineered wood isn’t as susceptible to temperature fluctuations or moisture. Therefore you reduce the risk of warping or damage throughout the seasons while gaining that luxury wooden look in the process. With so many options out there in terms of grain, varnish and finish, wooden flooring in kitchens is an investment that’s worth making. And, it’s worth considering that wooden flooring can increase your home value too, making it a worthwhile choice.

Tiles

Another big investment choice and popular option for kitchens is tile flooring. These hardwearing, water-resistant and easily maintained work perfectly in these challenging environments. However, they do come with a high price tag. Additionally, tiles become very cold unless you use an underfloor heating system and they are a hard slip hazard that may not be entirely suitable for young children.

Finding the Right Kitchen Flooring for You

As we mentioned above, kitchen flooring should tick the boxes for both style and practicality all in one. When choosing the right option for you, it pays to work with an experienced and professional team. Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have over 20 years of experience having worked with homeowners in Bristol and Bath. Our flooring solutions spread across a diverse range of choices, from laminate and LVT right through to stylish wood flooring. If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please do get in contact with us here today.

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This is why, today, we’ve pulled together our Wooden Floors Guide with everything you need to know about choosing the right wood floor for your building.

Why Choose Wooden Flooring?

As we mentioned above, wooden flooring has always been a popular option within our range. This is largely due to the host of benefits it offers, including:

• Durability – Wood floors are the ideal option for everyday use. They are very hard-wearing and can withstand repeated impact in high-traffic environments.
• Warm – Being a natural material, wooden floors have a warmth to them that artificial alternatives don’t. This means they’re enjoyable to walk on all year on.
• Easy to Maintain – Wood floors just need to be swept or hoovered to keep them looking their best. We recommend that spills are cleaned as quickly as possible.
• Hypoallergenic – Wood is a natural hypoallergenic. It doesn’t hold on to parasites or dust in the same way as carpet does, making it ideal for those with allergies such as asthma.
• A Good Investment – Wooden floors can boost the value of your property – especially if you invest in high-quality, solid wood options. This means it’s easier to sell or rent your home with them as a feature.

When it comes to wooden floors, there are two main options – solid wood and engineered wood. Let’s take a look at the differences between them now.

Solid Wood vs Engineered Wood

The main difference between solid and engineered wood floors is the construction. However, there are other reasons why one may be a more suitable option for you.

Solid Wood Flooring

As the name suggests, solid wood floors are made of solid wood. This has been cut directly from the tree and made into a plank. They are made using a variety of different wood types and finishes. To add your own style, these planks can be finished with varnish or paints. During installation, solid wood planks need to be secured directly to the subfloor. It cannot be floated over an underlay as other wood options can. Because it requires good-quality and solid wood to create each plank, this type of floor is more expensive than engineered. It is thought to be more luxurious and add more value to your home.

Advantages of Solid Wood Flooring

• Luxurious finish.
• Hardwearing and durable.
• Long-life expectancy.
• Can be sanded and refinished several times.
• Available in a variety of lengths and widths.
• The traditional tongue and groove fitting system is well-established.
• Comes in unfinished or prefinished.

Disadvantages of Solid Wood Flooring

• Expensive to buy and install.
• Impacted by humidity and fluctuations in temperature.
• Can be damaged by wood-thriving insects.
• Not suited for moisture-rich rooms.
• Can be scratched by unprotected furniture and high heels.
• Planks can creak or click with wear-and-tear.

Engineered Wood Flooring

In contrast, engineered flooring is made up of multiple layers of wood placed on top of each other. The most durable layer (the top one) is also known as the wear layer. It is this layer that dictates how your floor looks and what wood you choose to display. Engineered flooring can be stronger and more stable than solid wood because of these multiple layers. Again, you can finish the surface with different oils, lacquers, and finishes.

Advantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Generally more cost-effective than solid wood.
• Looks very similar to solid wood.
• Less impacted by temperature and humidity.
• Very stable when installed.
• Can be fixed to the subfloor, if needed.
• Two types of installation available.
• The top layer can be sanded and refinished, as needed.

Disadvantages of Engineered Wood Flooring

• Low-cost options may have more weaknesses to them.
• Can only be lightly sanded once or twice because of the thin upper layer.

Best Rooms for Wooden Flooring

Wood flooring is favoured for its versatility. Other than moisture-rich environments, such as bathrooms or kitchens, it can be used in nearly every room in the house. The durability makes it ideal for hallways and living areas where foot traffic is expected to be high. Equally, wood’s ability to hold on to heat makes it comfortable and stylish enough for bedrooms and offices too. There are such a wide variety of wood finishes and colours available, you can stick with your original decor style while benefiting from the host of options above.

Different Wooden Flooring Finishes

If you’re nearly sold on a wooden floor, don’t forget about the range of finishes available. There are always new colours and oils emerging onto the market, allowing you to add your own unique twist. Some of the most popular finishes include:

• Polyurethane – A clear finish that dries quickly.
• Oil-based Polyurethane – Very durable finish that is suited to high-traffic and commercial areas.
• Moisture-Cure Urethane – Very, very hard wearing and dries to a high shine.
• Wax – low-sheen finish but take quite a while to apply.
• Shellac – Natural and sustainable option.
• Oil Sealer – Allows the grain to show through but isn’t very durable.
• Acid-Cured Finish – Best suited to elaborately patterned floors, such as parquet designs.
• Aluminium Oxide – Hardest and most long-lasting finish.

Wooden Flooring at Virtuoso Flooring

Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we are constantly singing praises for wood flooring. Being biodegradable, hygienic, anti-allergenic, and naturally thermal, this stylish floor option suits the needs of many different clients. We work with the best suppliers to bring you high-quality wood flooring in Bristol, Bath, and across the UK. We also have a team of parquet flooring fitters who have experience in this specialist field and we have also supplied hard-wearing options to commercial environments too.

If you are interested in having a wooden floor installed in your residential or commercial property, get in contact with our flooring consultation team here today.

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Unique Demands of Bathroom Flooring

When we look around the home, most rooms have the same requirements from the flooring. But rooms with high moisture, such as the bathroom or kitchen are different. In these settings, the flooring needs to stand up to the high possibility of spills and leaks. Even if you’re careful to direct the showerhead away from the edge or prevent splashes at the sink, water is likely to cling to every surface. Walls, ceilings, furniture – they will all become wet. Alongside this, your floor needs to be able to deal with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels. And, specifically to the bathroom, it needs to have a level of slip resistance to minimise the risk of tripping.

Perhaps most important in homes with small children and those with limited mobility, safety needs to be at the height of importance when it comes to choosing bathroom flooring. And you can pair this along with comfort. Nobody likes stepping onto a freezing cold bathroom floor in the early morning or even in the middle of the night. So the right flooring for this unique space needs to stand up to a very specialised and ever-changing environment.

Family Requirements

Another thing to consider when choosing bathroom flooring is your family’s requirements. If you have chosen to install a wet room to help minimise access issues, for example, you’ll need to consider a floor option that helps users to maintain stability at all times. Families with small children will likely see them running in and out of the room without much adult supervision.

Again, there is the need to have slip-resistance in place to reduce the risk of injury in the event of a slip or trip.

How long a floor takes to install should also dictate your decision. With a busy family and heavy demands placed on your bathroom, you want something that can be installed and ready-to-walk on quickly. You don’t want to have to wait for the glue to set or fumes to evaporate before the toilet or bath can be used. And, you want an option that fits within your budget.

Choosing flooring that fits practically within your family life ensures that you only have to spend once and invest once.

Types of Bathroom Flooring

So, what are the different types of bathroom flooring available on the market?

Vinyl Flooring

A highly resilient option, vinyl flooring has long been a very popular choice across both residential and commercial environments. It has high durability, is able to bounce back upon impact and is very easy to maintain. Sheet vinyl provides vast coverage of floors, making it the ideal choice for particularly wet bathrooms such as those with children.

In this environment, vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof and can be seamed to heighten this. However, over time, it can become bumpy or gapped and then needs to be replaced in full.

LVT

Luxury vinyl tiles are one of the most popular and ever-growing flooring trends in the industry to date. And, they are ideal for bathrooms. The multi-layer, compressed design offers exceptional strength and durability. Those designs that have a textured surface provide slip-resistance and you can opt for styles that bring the charm of wood or stone into your bathroom.

LVTs won’t scratch easily, they have good heat and sound insulation and are moisture-resistant. Perfect for styling a bathroom to fall in love with.

Natural Stone

If you have the budget, natural stone is a truly beautiful option for bathrooms. These natural materials are highly resistant to any moisture damage and have a truly charming look that offers a sense of luxury. They can also increase the value of your home, bringing true quality into any space. As each time is sandblasted or naturally textured, you also achieve good slip-resistance – even when wet.

Ceramic Tiles

The most popular option on our list, a large number of bathrooms are finished with ceramic or porcelain tiles. They come in a wide variety of colours with high waterproof qualities and are cost-effective. Porcelain tiles have a high water absorption rate which makes them ideal for very wet bathrooms. And with options from standard rectangle through to hexagonal or scale-shaped tiles, you can be as creative as you want.

How to Choose the Right Option for You?

The right bathroom flooring for your home will depend on a number of factors. If you’re looking for the right choice, ask yourself:

• What is my budget and what can it stretch to?
• What style am I looking for?
• Can I afford to be without a bathroom for a period during installation? Or do I need the floor to be fitted quickly?
• How long do I want this flooring to last?
• How much time do I have to maintain my bathroom flooring every day/week?
• What impact-resistance do I need my chosen floor type to have?

Our team here at Virtuoso Flooring are always on hand to help you find the right flooring option for every room. If you would like to speak to a member of our expert team, please do get in contact today.

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To do this, you need to identify the different needs of every room individually. Some spaces will have heavier foot traffic and need more durable solutions. Equally, quieter areas can be fitted with something more luxurious and delicate to suit your interior style. This guide will help you decide how to choose your flooring all throughout the house. Let’s take a look at each room individually.

Hallway

The entrance into your home and the place most likely to feel the full brunt of the external weather. Your hallway is one of the most heavily trafficked areas in the home. Whether you’re answering the door to the delivery man or scooting out the door for the school run, it needs to be durable and robust. Equally, many homeowners aren’t willing to compromise on style. After all, the hallway is normally the first spot that guests will see upon their entry. And, therefore, it is the perfect opportunity to impress.

Hallway Demands

• High foot traffic.
• Muddy shoes.
• First impression spot.

Flooring Solutions

Seeing as you’re looking for durability and hardwearing properties, we recommend airing away from carpets. The build-up of dirt from shoes and coats can accumulate in these high traffic areas and increase the maintenance demands – not suitable for a busy family. Instead, choose something like Luxury Vinyl Tiles. A new generation of vinyl flooring, they allow you to maintain a wooden look with heightened resistance. Each one is manufactured from multiple layers and can be finished with a realistic texture. This way, you’ll be able to personalise the hallway space while minimising cleaning requirements and the risk of excessive wear.

Kitchen

In many homes, the kitchen is the hub of the house. It’s where friends and family gather to discuss the day’s activities and enjoy a hearty meal. Many families find that they spend more time in the kitchen than the living room or other areas in the home. Therefore, the foot traffic and wear demands here are equally as great. Also, the kitchen is one of the spaces in a home where you find the biggest fluctuations in heat and humidity. Turning on the oven, using the washing machine and even cleaning up after a big meal. This added moisture and temperature changes can cause some flooring options, like real wood flooring, to expand or contract. You may notice uneven areas underfoot or even gaps where contaminants can become trapped.

What you want in this type of space is something hard-wearing, easy-to-clean and suitable for moisture-rich settings.

Kitchen Demands

• High foot traffic.
• High possibility of spills and soils.
• Temperature and humidity fluctuations.
• Stylish.

Flooring Solutions

A popular choice in kitchens is a natural stone, such as slate or granite. They are extremely hard-wearing, durable and very easy to clean. These materials also often sit well alongside kitchen units beautifully and can be found in a variety of styles to suit your kitchen space. LVT is also another brilliant option here. It allows you to create that natural-looking finish, if needed, with exceptional water resistance. LVT is also very comfortable underfoot and has a warmth to it that overshadows tiles.

You could also consider laminate flooring if you’re looking for something more budget-conscious. It also offers good water resistance, a range of colour options and can be styled into your kitchen easily.

Living Room

The living room is where you snuggle and relax after a long day. It’s where the entire family comes together, to watch a film or play a board game. The spot in the house where you spend the last few hours doing whatever it is that helps you to wind down. Therefore, it’s all about style and comfort here. You want something that feels luxurious underfoot. There is more flexibility in these spaces too – you can pretty much choose from all options available on the market.

Living Room Demands

• Low-medium foot traffic.
• High stain-resistance.
• Easy-to-clean.

Flooring Solutions

The living room is the perfect spot for a deep pile, luxurious carpet. There’s something about sinking your feet into good quality carpet fibres that makes you think of relaxing and chilling out. Choose an option made from natural fibres, such as wool or silk. This will give you an incredibly opulent feel and a solution that provides brilliant thermal and sound insulation. Carpets can also adjust to the humidity in the room, meaning it won’t shift or move during the year. And luxury natural carpets are an investment that lasts for many years to come.

If you’re looking for something with lower maintenance, consider LVT or laminate flooring. Or, if you still want to hold on to a feeling of warmth and luxury, stylish wood flooring is ideal. It is an elastic material which is comfortable underfoot, emanates warmth and has an undeniable elegance. Wood is also biodegradable, hygienic and anti-allergenic making it perfect for families.

Bedroom

The bedroom is another room in the house that should be cosy and relaxing. You want to create a haven that helps you get the best possible sleep, every single night. The right flooring should incorporate in with your interior design, feel luxurious underfoot and help to hold warmth throughout the year. It should be an investment that stays put for many years, growing and evolving with the changes you may make to the decor of your bedroom. You want something that is easy-to-clean but makes you want to step barefoot every single morning.

Bedroom Demands

• Low-medium foot traffic.
• Luxurious under barefoot.
• Easy-to-clean.
• Help to maintain temperature.

Flooring Solutions

Again, luxury pile carpets are the perfect option for bedrooms. Natural fibres can be incorporated into the rest of your soft furnishings – invest in quality bed sheets, throws and scatter cushions to create a space you’re desperate to be in every single night. With brilliant thermal properties, carpet helps to keep your room cosy during the colder hours of the morning and has sound insulation properties which are brilliant for use in children’s bedrooms too.

LVT and luxury wood flooring can also work wonders in these spaces. If you’re concerned about that plush feeling underfoot being lost, combine them with rugs. Wood already has a unique warmth to it and can be finished with a range of treatments – wax, oil or sealing – to heighten this.

Bathroom

Again, the bathroom is a room in the house where excessive moisture is commonplace. So, this needs to be taken into account when choosing the right flooring. You need something hard-wearing and durable, with high water resistance. It also pays to take into account your appliances. If you have a fixed shower panel and walk-in shower fitted, you need something with good slip-resistance. Consider how soft the floor is underfoot – especially important if you live with an elderly person to reduce accident risk in the event of a fall.

Bathroom Demands

• Good water resistance.
• Easy-to-clean.
• Soft underfoot.
• Hardwearing.

Flooring Solutions

A lot of households opt for either ceramic or porcelain floor tiles for bathrooms. They benefit the style of most bathrooms, bringing a natural finish and one that can be paired with basins and bathtubs easily. They also have low porosity, minimising the risk of damage due to high moisture levels and have a long lifespan.

If you’ve fallen in love with the idea of wood-style floors, LVT is the solution. The unique manufacture has exceptional waterproof properties and high stain-resistance. You’ll be able to mop spills clean in minutes, minimising the risk of slipping injury and the solid panels make moisture-damage extremely unlikely.

No matter which room of the house you’re looking to style, there is a flooring option out there for you. If you need any help or advice with choosing the right floor, get in contact with our expert team here at Virtuoso Flooring who will be happy to help.

This guide will be designed to help people choose the right floor for their needs. It will discuss the need to identify the main features needed in each room, including durability, waterproof finish or longevity. The guide will be split into numerous sections, to analyse which floor options fit the features needed and, therefore, as suitable for different rooms. Where relevant, the guide will include inner linking.

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Carpet

It’s no wonder that carpets remain a very popular choice for domestic settings. They help to retain warmth, feel cosy underfoot and can even help to control excessive noise. Carpets can also help to minimise slipping risks for both small children and animals. They offer a layer of protection against breakages when items are dropped and they can be used to disguise uneven floor surfaces much easier than other options.

Woven VS Tufted

In the UK, we have 2 main types of carpet available – woven and tufted. They are each manufactured differently and, as a result, have different price points.

Woven carpets have a longer and more intense manufacturing process and are more expensive as a result. They are generally of a higher quality and use traditional methods to ensure durability. You can find woven carpets in a wide variety of colours and styles, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. Additionally, their durability makes them popular for high traffic environments like hallways.

Tufted carpets are some of the most popular in the UK due to their affordable price tag. They are machine-made, making the process much quicker and cost-effective. Again, they come in a wide variety of colours and styles and can be either looped or cut pile to create different looks.

Materials

Carpets also come in two main categories when it comes to materials – synthetic and natural.

Synthetic carpets are generally manufactured from polypropylene or nylon. They are considerably cheaper than natural alternatives and have higher stain resistance. You also have a better mould resistance and they are easier to clean.

Natural carpets can be made from wool and other fibres. You’ll find a higher price tag associated with this type due to the material and many claim they are softer underfoot too. They are less stain-resistant than synthetic alternatives and can attract insects.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Often less expensive than other flooring options.
• Excellent soundproofing properties.
• Softer underfoot.
• Available in a wide range of colours and styles.
• Quicker and easier to install.

Cons:

• Can visibly wear in high traffic areas.
• Requires regular maintenance to keep it looking it’s best.
• Doesn’t work in every single room.
• Will need to be replaced more frequently.

Best rooms in the house for carpet

Depending on the type of carpet you’ve chosen, you can fit it in most rooms. We would advise avoiding those spaces with high moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. However, carpet is a brilliant option for bedrooms, hallways, living rooms and playrooms.

Vinyl Flooring

A popular choice for its durability and versatility, vinyl flooring continues to be the favoured option in many homes. It has a very high durability and low maintenance – the perfect blend for busy family homes. In addition, the long lifespan makes it cost-effective over time and reduces the need for excessive replacements. There are 3 main types of vinyl flooring – planks, tiles and sheets.

Vinyl planks

As the name suggests, these vinyl planks are engineered to give the same benefits as real hardwood. Technology has evolved to ensure they look near exactly the same too, allowing you to achieve the look you’re searching for without the excessive price tag. Additionally, these planks are easy to apply and have good water resistance to prevent damage to the underneath flooring surface.

Vinyl tiles

One of the easiest options to fit, vinyl tiles are designed for the avid DIY-er. They can be easily replaced individually, meaning you won’t need to finance an entire new floor. And, the variety of colours and patterns means you can create a unique floor design to make your home completely unique. More vinyl tiles have a self-adhesive backing and can be used with grout to give a fully authentic look.

Vinyl sheets

Vinyl sheets generally come in a large role and are designed to completely eliminate seams. They are perfect for high-moisture environments such as kitchens and bathrooms as there are no gaps for moisture to seep through. Vinyl sheet is also manufactured in a wide variety of colours, patterns and styles. It can be installed over most floor types, including concrete, tile and underlayment.

Pros and cons of vinyl flooring

Pros:

• Relatively easy to install.
• An affordable option, especially for larger floor spaces.
• Very comfortable underfoot with a slightly softer walking surface.
• Wide range of different choices when it comes to colour and style.
• Hardwearing and durable.
• Low maintenance.

Cons:

• The soft surface makes it prone to scratches, cuts and gouges.
• Very little impact on house value.
• Not easily repaired (unless fitted in tiles).
• Can be difficult to remove when no longer wanted.
• Not eco-friendly.

Best rooms in the house for vinyl

With its waterproof properties, vinyl sheet is the perfect option for kitchens and bathrooms. It is also low maintenance enough to be used in high traffic settings, such as the living room and hallways.

Laminate Flooring

Another popular and durable option when it comes to flooring is laminate. Perfect for anyone looking for a wooden look but at a lower cost. Laminate is extremely hard wearing and can be fitted in most rooms of the house. If you’re searching for something that promises to withstand the demands of busy family homes or high foot traffic in specific areas, it is a very practical option.

AC Ratings

In order to understand how strong laminate flooring is, you need to look at the AC rating. This refers to its abrasion class and is the floor’s durability against a number of factors. In short, the higher the AC rating, the more hardwearing the floor will be. You can use this rating to determine whether a specific floor option would suit the room in question.

To get it’s AC rating, laminate flooring undergoes a Taber test. Depending on how well the floor deals with a number of different stress points, including abrasion, impact, stains and moisture, will determine it’s rating. There are 5 different AC ratings; the first 3 are suitable for residential settings and the final 2 are ideal for commercial environments.

• AC1 – Suitable for moderate traffic. Use in bedrooms.
• AC2 – Ideal for general traffic. Dining rooms and living rooms.
• AC3 – Heavy traffic. Ideal for hallways or entrance ways.
• AC4 – Commercial grade suitable for offices, cafes or smaller retail outlets
• AC5 – Commercial grade suitable for large department stores and offices.

Thickness

Laminate flooring also comes in a range of different thicknesses. If you’re looking to create a wood floor-style design, opt for something thicker to give the same feel underfoot. Thicker laminate also has better soundproofing benefits but will carry a heavier price tag.

Pros and Cons of laminate flooring

Pros:

• Easy to install – even for an amateur.
• Cost-effective.
• High stain resistance.
• Non-allergenic.

Cons:

• Can be damaged by high moisture.
• May emit some unpleasant chemicals.

Best rooms in the house for laminate flooring

Similar to vinyl, you have free reign on which rooms are fitted with laminate flooring. It is an ideal choice for kitchens and bathrooms but can also be used in living rooms and bedrooms alike.

LVT

LVT or Luxury Vinyl Tiles are the modern-day alternatives to standard vinyl. Renowned for their exceptional durability, these tiles are made from a number of different layers and finishes with an enhanced protective coating layer to heighten durability. They are easy to fit, exceptionally long-lasting and perfect for the busiest areas in your home. There are two main types – Click and Glue Down.

Click LVT

As the name suggests, Click LVT flooring clicks into place. Each individual plank is manufactured with a lock mechanism on the side which holds them each in place. This eliminates the need for an adhesive and makes the entire installation process considerably easier. When paired with LVT underlay, they are highly effective at controlling lost heat and soundproofing.

Glue Down LVT

Again, as the name suggests, these LVT tiles need to be fixed with a special adhesive. This gives added strength to the flooring but will make the process slightly more specialist and longer too.

Pros and Cons of LVT flooring

Pros:

• Very easy to maintain due to the upper protective layer.
• Wide range of design options to choose from.
• Hardwearing.
• Easy-to-fit.
• Good sound and heat retention.

Cons:

• Not as cosy as carpet.
• Cannot be sanded or refurbished like wooden flooring.

Wooden flooring

Wooden flooring gives an entirely unique and warm feel to a room. It is a significant investment but adds value to your property and helps to create a timeless look in any room. For this reason, it is a very popular choice for many households and comes in a range of styles to fit every single need. You’ll find 3 main types of wooden flooring on the market – engineered, solid and reclaimed.

Engineered wood flooring

Here, up to 4 layers of wood are glued together to create each flooring plank. They are finished with a real-wood veneer on the top which can be sanded and treated as normal. Engineered flooring is more stable than solid wood and will change less under temperature and humidity fluctuations. It is also a cheaper option than solid wood.

Solid wood flooring

These solid planks are generally between 18 – 20mm thick. They are installed using a tongue-and-groove system and come with a hardness score. Using this will help you to determine how suitable a particular pack of wood will be for different areas in the home. One of the main benefits of solid wood flooring is the ability to sand them back to their original beauty when needed.

Reclaimed wood flooring

Here, timber is salvaged from an older property or project and used to create floorboards. These can either be brought or taken from your own home, if available. This is a more eco-friendly option and has a unique, vintage aesthetic that many people adore. However, there is an increased risk of existing woodworms which affects each plank’s stability and it can be considerably more expensive.

Pros and cons of wooden flooring

Pros:

• Very durable.
• Add value to the overall price of your property.
• Easy to maintain.
• Can be sanded down when they become scratched or marked.
• Can be varnished or stained to suit your home.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other options.
• Can be noisy when walking on.

Understanding the wide variation of flooring options on the market allows you to make an informed choice in your home. If you would like more information about any of the floors above or simply want to speak to one of our experts, get in touch with the team at Virtuoso Flooring here today on 01225972715.

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Carpet

People choose carpets for a multitude of reasons. It keeps rooms warmer, offers a layer of insulation and feels comfortable underfoot. There are a variety of options out there, including both natural and synthetic fibre designs. More luxurious carpets are made from fibres including wool and silk with a support layer. Their high fibre density not only gives them an impressively opulent feeling but also makes them a challenge to clean. Here are our top tips.

Regular maintenance

Prevention is always the key when it comes to maintaining flooring – especially carpets. And, you’ll want to make sure this attention to detail is actioned from the moment it is installed. During the first few weeks, vacuum daily to remove loose fibres. If any fibres stick out higher than the general layer of your carpet, make sure to cut these instead of pulling. After the first few weeks, you’ll want to vacuum regularly to remove dirt build-up.

Be cautious of chemicals

There are many carpet cleaning products out there. But you need to be cautious of the impact these can have on your fibres. Make sure to only use appropriate cleaning chemicals that have been designed for your type of carpet. For example, bleach should only ever be used on 100% polypropylene carpets. Otherwise, it will lift dyes, cause staining and leave a pathy finish.

Clean up stains quickly

Don’t allow soils to sit as they may stain the fibres. Do your research and ensure you use the right method. General stains can be removed with white vinegar, dish soap and water – this works well on tougher stains like wine. Carpets stained by animals should be cleaner with an enzyme-based solution that is deemed suitable for your fibres.

Steam clean

It is good practice to steam clean your carpet on a bi-annual or annual basis. They use vaporized air which breaks down excessive dirt build-up. Before doing so, remove all furniture from the room and clean around the edges. Start in the corner furthest away from the door to prevent stepping on wet carpet. And, make sure it is fully dry before replacing furniture.

Consider foot traffic

In areas of high traffic, it’s advisable to avoid certain carpets. Those made of natural materials are truly beautiful but don’t offer the same durability as other synthetic options. Repeated wear in one specific area is likely to wear down the fibres and cause it to look dull.

Use doormats

As we mentioned at the beginning, prevention is everything. Doormats at all entry points provide a reminder to guests to remove outside dirt and debris before entering. We also recommend asking guests to remove their shoes.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is known for its durability and budget-friendly design. It comes in a wide variety of colour and style options while also suiting a variety of rooms. Caring for it takes knowledge – you want to avoid significant harm in the first place as it can be difficult to repair. Here are our tips for maintaining vinyl:

Sweep frequently

You want to ensure that dirt and debris isn’t left to sit on your vinyl flooring. If it becomes trapped under moving furniture or stepped on by guests, it can cause irreparable scratches and dents. Sweep, daily if you can, to remove as much of this as possible.

Use a doormat

It is important to minimise the amount of dirt that is left on vinyl flooring and, as mentioned above, one way to minimise this is with a doormat. Grit and sharp dirt particles will cause the same damage as sandpaper. And certain external grounds, such as asphalt, can cause vinyl flooring to change colour.

Be low-impact

While vinyl can stand up to the demands of a busy house, it is not durable to withstand harsh cleaning. Avoid excessive chemicals and vacuum with a gentle attachment.

Wipe away spills immediately

Vinyl is installed with bonding glue. If spills or moisture is allowed to sit on the surface, it can break down this bond and cause the corners to curl. This is also applicable when mopping.

Use protective furniture feet

Feet on sofas, television units or storage boxes can scratch vinyl if they are pulled around. While lifting is the best option when larger items need to be moved, it’s also smart to fit protective feet. Avoid rolling castors as these can do more damage than good.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is highly popular due to its natural durability and hardwearing nature. It is used all over the house and favoured for its easy-clean surface. However, as with other options on this list, it still requires good care to keep it looking its best.

Prevention is key

Eliminate the chance of damage happening to your floors as much as possible. Remove shoes, use doormats in high-traffic areas and consider the most appropriate place to have it installed. While laminate can be repaired, keeping it in the best possible condition reduces this financial burden on you.

Avoid excessive moisture

Laminate flooring is not waterproof. Excessive moisture can cause it to warp, move and dislodge from it’s fittings. For this reason, clean up spills immediately. Never use a steam mop but opt, instead, for a flat-headed spray mop which will still allow you to lift soils.

Use repair kits

Instead of investing in the labour and expense of new laminate floor planks, you can buy repair kits. These allow you to fill in scratches and dents and are more cost-effective. Before doing so, ensure the surface is clean and the marks aren’t just caused by the build-up of dirt.

LVT tiles

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are one of the newest entrants to the flooring world. They have been designed to offer exceptional durability, style and versatility around the home. This hardwearing nature also means they are easy-to-clean but do have specific requirements when it comes to appropriate maintenance. Our top tips are:

Prevent slips as much as possible

If guests slip, while wearing shoes, they can cause damage that cannot be repaired. Using non-slip backing on rugs will prevent them from sliding and minimise the risk of this.

Lift furniture

While this is true of most flooring options, LVT tiles are a significant investment. Never drag furniture as this can cause scratches or dents. Either use wooden planks underneath the feet to maneuver the item out or lift it with help.

Brush/Mop/Vacuum

LVT tiles are low maintenance – one of the reasons they are so popular. Focus on removing dirt by sweeping, mopping and vacuuming regularly. We recommend washing the floor on a weekly basis with a well-wrung out cloth or mop.

Use specialist chemicals

There are a number of LVT-approved chemicals available on the market that have been specially designed for this purpose. You’ll want to avoid aggressive agents that can do significant damage. Remove any stains or soils immediately to prevent these from becoming more permanent. Do not use waxes – they will make the floor slippery and can dull the tiles appearance.

Use LVT Repair Kit

To avoid costly replacement, you can purchase LVT repair kits to fill in smaller scratches and dents. This will prolong the lifespan of your tiles and keep maintenance costs to a minimum.

Wooden flooring

One of the more luxurious options on our list, wooden flooring is an investment that just keeps giving. It is warm, comfortable and versatile – suitable for every space from the bedroom through to the living room. With wood being a natural material, it’s important that you can for your flooring right. Our top tips include:

Spills = warping

No matter how high-quality your wooden flooring is, if it comes into contact with excessive water, it will warp. This will produce an uneven floor and a significant safety hazard for the entire family. Wipe up spills instantly. Avoid drenching mops in water and clean up any excessive product build-up to prevent this. Never use a steam cleaner for the exact same reason.

Protect the lacquer/oil

Hardwood floors are treated with either a lacquer or oil for added protection. Over time, this will wear off. It is important that you replace these. With both types, you’ll need to sand the floor’s surface lightly and then reapply the chosen product. For larger or deeper dents, just use a slightly more abrasive sanding technique.

Remove footwear

Consider the shoes you allow to walk around your flooring. High stiletto heels or football boots both have sharp points which can dent and damage wooden planks. Ask guests to remove them and use doormats to remove excess dust and dirt from other’s shoes.

Clean in the direction of the grain

Remember that wooden floors are made from a natural material and should be respected for that reason. When cleaning, use a microfiber cloth and PH neutral cleaning spray. Clean in the direction of the grain to prevent damage and use a soft bristle brush to remove lighter surface dirt. Furniture polishes will only leave a slippery residue which can cause damage over time so they are best avoided.

Here at Virtuoso Flooring, we have an extensive range of high-quality flooring solutions to suit your needs. And we want you to invest in solutions that last and give you true value for money. Our top tips above have been gathered by our experts. If you have any further questions on how to care for your specific flooring type, please get in contact today.

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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.

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