7 March 2023

How do I evaluate the quality of an LVT?

 

LVT flooring is still an incredibly popular choice for commercial and domestic use. It’s waterproof properties, and abundance of designs and textures, make it the perfect choice whatever your requirements. But with so many different brands to choose from, how do you know you are getting the best value for your money?

‘Buy cheap buy twice,’ as the saying goes. The better the quality the flooring the longer it will last. We all know the saying. But how do you know it’s a good quality LVT? Do you have to buy the most expensive? Or is there a middle ground? Here’s our top tips on what to look out for and how to make sure you get the best flooring for your money.

Wear Layer

As you begin to do your research and look at the cost, you may begin to notice with each LVT brand there is varying prices. One of the main reasons for this, is the thickness of the wear layer. Most manufactures will have different ranges, with an option of 0.3mm – 1mm wear layer. In case you’re wondering what a wear layer is…

The wear layer is the top layer of the flooring that protects the design. For domestic use a 0.3 mm wear layer, is perfectly adequate. Thicker wear layers are available so that the flooring can be installed for commercial use too (an area that receives heavy footfall).

If you have chosen to look at larger, more well known brands, you will find the price increases with the thickness of the wear layer.

Lesser known brands will be cheaper (as with most things). Checking the wear layer of the product, will help you to assess it’s life span. If you choose an unknown brand it’s always best to check the wear layer is at least 0.3mm for domestic use. And at least 0.55mm and above for commercial.

 

Design and detail

The colour, design and texture of your flooring is down to personal taste. It doesn’t matter how expensive the brand is, if you don’t like the colour and design, then it’s irrelevant.

So why are some brands more expensive than others? If the cost is higher it may be down to the detail in design and colour. What may just seem as a grey wood effect will most likely have a multitude of colours and variation. The same can apply to the surface texture. Registered embossed is when the texture of the flooring mirrors the pattern in the design. For example if there is a wood knot in the design, the surface of the flooring will be textured as if there is a knot in the flooring. This effect is only possible when the LVT is thicker (a wear layer of 0.55mm and above). This design technology has been developed to imitate the natural texture of real wood flooring.

Ultimately, the colour, design and texture do not effect the longevity of floor. You may find you prefer a simpler colour pallet with a smooth surface.

Bevelled Edge

One of other design features used to add texture to the flooring, is a bevelled edge. This is where the edge of each plank is at an angle. The overall effect, defines each plank. This design feature is only possible if the flooring is thick enough. It is usually only features in floor ranges that have a wear layer above 0.55mm. Bevelled edges can range in size and style. Some flooring ranges have a bevelled edge around the entire perimeter of the plank/tile and some only two sides. It may be that you don’t like the look of this and prefer a simpler flat design. A bevelled edge is not an essential feature but more an aesthetic choice.

Brands

If you are still feeling a little unsure about choosing a lesser know brand and are suspicious of the price, opting for one of the bigger brands is a safe bet.

Big brands such as Karndean, Amtico and Moduleo are well known because they have successfully manufactured attractive and reliable products. The proof is in the pudding. However choosing a big brand will increase the cost. If you are on a budget, following our top tips and doing some research will help to save on money without sacrificing on quality.

Why choose Beyond Flooring?

There are hundreds of flooring manufacturers, suppliers and installers, so it can be hard to know where to turn.

At Beyond Flooring, our mission is to enhance your environment with expertly fitted flooring. We only use quality products, and we offer a two year warranty on all domestic projects. We also have extensive experience installing Karndean flooring and other LVT products, so we know how to ensure the perfect finish.

If you need a little inspiration, check out our customer gallery, or visit our showroom. Our friendly team are always happy to help you select the perfect flooring for your home.