LVT, or luxury vinyl tile, is a relatively new type of resilient flooring that can mimic natural materials like wood, stone or ceramic. It’s durable and versatile, and often much cheaper than these natural materials, which means it’s becoming more and more popular.

So how much will LVT flooring cost if you decide to get it in your home? Find out everything you need to know about LVT flooring in this guide.

What is LVT flooring?

LVT is typically made up of several layers, including a high-quality photographic layer that provides a realistic finish, a protective wear layer, and a backing layer for stability. It can even have a textured layer to help give it the feel of wood or another natural material.

LVT is water-resistant, scratch-resistant and easy to clean, making it a popular choice for kitchens, bathrooms and high-traffic areas.

How much does it cost to lay LVT flooring?

In the UK, the average cost to lay LVT flooring is between £20 and £70 per square metre, depending on the type of LVT you choose. Flooring specialists usually charge more to fit LVT in a herringbone pattern as it is more difficult to install. 

LVT itself can cost as little as £15 for low-end styles up to £70 per m² for premium options. The more expensive it is, generally the more realistic it looks.

Factors that affect the cost of LVT flooring

• Type of LVT: There are two main types of LVT: glue-down and click-lock (often just called click LVT). Click LVT options are generally easier and faster to install, which can reduce installation costs.
• Subfloor preparation: If your subfloor is uneven, damaged, or requires a moisture barrier, you’ll need to pay more for preparation costs.
• Room size and shape: Larger rooms or those with many nooks and crannies can increase the installation time, affecting labour costs. However, you may find that you get a lower cost per square metre with larger rooms.
• LVT thickness and wear layer: Thicker LVT with a thicker wear layer is more durable but comes at a higher price.
• Brand and quality: Some brands, like Karndean, offer high-quality or luxury finishes that drive up the overall cost, but you can often get the same quality from less well-known brands at a lower price.
• Your location: LVT flooring fitting costs vary depending on where you live. Flooring specialists tend to charge more for fitting in larger cities, especially in the south east, while costs in more rural areas and the north of the UK tend to be lower. Take a look at our UK LVT flooring costs table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate idea of costs in your area.

Advantages and disadvantages of LVT flooring

How do professionals lay LVT?

Professionals follow a detailed process to ensure LVT flooring is installed correctly and lasts for years. Here are the typical steps they take during fitting:

1. Subfloor preparation
   The first step is to prepare the subfloor by cleaning it thoroughly and ensuring it’s dry, smooth and level. If it’s not, they will use a levelling compound to smooth out bumps, dips and cracks. In cases where the subfloor is uneven, this step is essential to prevent issues like gaps, misalignment or buckling in the LVT and extend its lifespan.
2. Acclimatisation
   LVT flooring should be acclimatised to the room temperature for 24-48 hours before installation. This helps prevent expansion or contraction of the tiles once installed, particularly in areas prone to temperature changes.
3. Laying underlay (if required)
   Some types of LVT, especially click LVT, may require an underlay for added stability, sound reduction or insulation. The choice of underlay depends on the LVT type and the subfloor condition. For example, a moisture barrier underlay may be used for installations over concrete. Many click LVT systems have built-in underlay.
4. Measuring and marking
   A flooring specialist will take the time to measure the area and mark starting lines to ensure a straight, balanced layout. This helps avoid uneven gaps or misaligned planks. They often start in the centre of the room or at a prominent feature to maintain symmetry and minimise the need for narrow pieces at the edges.
5. Installation Method
• Glue-down LVT: Professionals apply adhesive to the subfloor in sections, carefully positioning each tile or plank before pressing it into place. They use a roller or apply pressure to remove any air bubbles and ensure full adhesion. Glue-down installations are common in high-traffic areas because of their stability.
• Click LVT: For click-lock systems, they connect each plank by angling and snapping the edges together without adhesive. This system is quicker and often preferred for DIY installations, although professionals may use it in rooms where time is limited or the subfloor isn’t suited for glue-down.
6. Cutting and fitting edges
   When they reach the edges of the room, flooring specialists cut the tiles or planks to fit. Precision cutting around obstacles like pipes, door frames or built-in furniture ensures a clean, professional finish. They typically leave a small expansion gap along the edges to allow for natural movement, covering it later with skirting boards or beading.
7. Sealing and finishing
   In some cases, professionals may apply a sealant around the perimeter, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens or bathrooms. After installation, they inspect the entire floor, addressing any minor adjustments or cleaning up any adhesive residue.
8. Final clean-up and inspection
   Once the floor is fully installed, your flooring specialists will clean the surface, removing any dust or residue. They also conduct a final inspection to ensure that each plank or tile is securely in place and that the floor has an even, seamless appearance.

What is the lifespan of LVT flooring?

With proper care, LVT flooring can last between 10 and 20 years, though high-quality products may last even longer. Its durability is supported by a wear layer, which protects the design layer beneath, helping the floor retain its appearance over time.

Is LVT more expensive than carpet?

Yes, LVT is typically more expensive than carpet, especially for higher-quality options. Basic carpet costs start around £7 to £20 per square metre, whereas LVT starts at about £20 per square metre. 

However, LVT is longer-lasting, more resistant to stains and wear, and generally easier to clean than carpet, making it a better long-term investment.

Is LVT good for uneven floors?

LVT requires a flat and stable surface for proper installation, as uneven floors can lead to gaps, misalignment, or buckling over time. If you have an uneven floor, you may need to invest in subfloor preparation, such as levelling compounds, which will add to the overall cost.

How long does it take to fit LVT?

A professional can typically install LVT flooring in an average-sized room within one to two days, but it will ultimately depend on the size of the room. The room’s layout and the type of LVT will also have an impact. Click LVT tends to be quicker to install than glue-down options.

Which is warmer: laminate or LVT?

LVT is generally warmer than laminate due to its composition and design, which provides a softer and warmer feel underfoot. Additionally, LVT can be installed with underfloor heating, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a cosy finish in cooler rooms.

How to tell the difference between laminate and LVT

Laminate and LVT can look similar, but there are notable differences. LVT is typically thinner, more flexible, and water-resistant, making it suitable for wet areas, while laminate tends to be more rigid and can swell with moisture. LVT has a softer feel underfoot, while laminate offers a harder surface that may produce more noise when walked on.

Can you install LVT flooring yourself?

Many DIYers can install click LVT flooring themselves, as it’s designed to be relatively straightforward to install without glue. However, glue-down LVT requires more skill and expertise, particularly for rooms with complex layouts. 

Proper subfloor preparation is crucial for any LVT installation, so if your floor isn’t level, it may be best to hire a professional.

It’s always worth considering the cost of fixing mistakes, too. If you’re not confident and think you may need to call in a professional to help you finish the job, it’s probably more cost-effective to hire them to do the whole job in the first instance.

Ready to get quotes for LVT flooring? Post your job on HaMuch now and get quotes from reliable flooring specialists in your area.

Estimates for common flooring specialist jobs;

Rates for other trades