LVT Flooring for Kitchens — Everything You Need to Know

Luxury Vinyl Tile — LVT — has become one of the most popular flooring choices for UK kitchens, and it is easy to understand why. It is durable, fully waterproof, comfortable underfoot, and available in a huge range of realistic wood and stone effects. If you have already decided that LVT is the right choice for your kitchen, this guide covers everything you need to know about choosing, fitting and maintaining it.

The most important specification to check when choosing LVT for a kitchen is the wear layer thickness. This is the transparent protective layer on top of the design layer, and it determines how resistant the floor is to scratches, scuffs and heavy use. For a kitchen — which sees heavy foot traffic, dropped items and regular cleaning — a wear layer of at least 0.5mm is recommended. A 0.3mm wear layer is adequate for lighter domestic use but may show wear more quickly in a busy kitchen.

LVT is available in two main installation formats: click-lock (also called floating) and glue-down. Click-lock LVT is quicker to install and can often be laid directly over an existing floor, including old tiles, provided the surface is level and stable. Glue-down LVT is bonded directly to the subfloor and is more stable underfoot — it is the preferred choice for kitchens where heavy appliances will be moved across the floor, or where the subfloor has any flex.

Subfloor preparation is critical for a good LVT installation. The subfloor must be clean, dry, level and structurally sound. Any unevenness in the subfloor will telegraph through the LVT and become visible over time. A self-levelling compound is used to correct minor unevenness before the LVT is laid.

LVT is compatible with underfloor heating, which is a significant advantage in a kitchen where you spend long periods standing. Check the manufacturer's specifications for maximum floor temperature — most LVT products are rated for use with underfloor heating up to 27°C at the floor surface.

Maintenance is straightforward. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit and debris. Mop with a pH-neutral cleaner and warm water. Avoid steam mops — the heat and moisture can damage the adhesive layer in glue-down LVT and cause the planks to lift in click-lock installations. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvent-based products.

IK Master Build Ltd supply and fit LVT flooring as part of our full kitchen installation service. Call 07402 059 555 to discuss your kitchen flooring options.