Mastering Luxury Vinyl Tile Installation: A Trade Guide 

2nd Aug 2024 -

Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) offer a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability and cost-effectiveness. As demand continues to grow, it is important to learn the intricacies of LVT installation and enhance your skills.

This guide delves into techniques and best practices for achieving flawless LVT flooring. From precision cutting to seamless transitions and advanced finishing techniques, we explore all the key elements.

• What is a Luxury Vinyl Tile?
• Are Luxury Vinyl Floor Tiles Waterproof?
• Does LVT Need Underlay?
• How to Lay LVT Flooring: 11 Top Tips
• Can You Use Finishing Techniques on LVT Floors?
• Impress Your Clients with Superb LVT Materials

What is Luxury Vinyl Tile?

LVT combines the aesthetic appeal of natural materials with the durability of vinyl. It is composed of multiple layers, typically including the following.

• Wear layer: A clear, protective top coat that resists scratches, stains and general wear and tear.
• Design layer: High-resolution photographic film that replicates the look of natural materials like wood, stone or ceramic.
• Core layer: Usually made of PVC or engineered with stone plastic composite (SPC) or wood plastic composite (WPC).
• Backing layer: Provides additional stability and often includes features for sound absorption and moisture resistance.

The tiles or planks are typically 2-8mm thick and come in various sizes and formats.

LVT benefits

• Aesthetic versatility: LVT realistically mimics a wide range of materials, including rare and expensive woods, stones and ceramics. This offers design flexibility without the associated costs.
• Durability: The wear layer offers excellent resistance to scratches, dents and stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. 
• Comfort and sound absorption: LVT is softer underfoot compared to hard surfaces like ceramic tile or stone. 
• Quick installation: Loose lay systems or LVT click flooring allow for faster installation.
• Warmth: LVT floor tiles retain heat better than ceramic tile or stone, creating a warmer feel in colder climates.
• Hypoallergenic: It does not harbour dust, pollen or other allergens. LVT floor tiles are an excellent choice for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
• Underfloor heating compatibility: LVT flooring materials can be installed over underfloor heating systems, adding comfort.
• Repair and replacement: Individual tiles or planks can easily be replaced if damaged, avoiding the need for full floor replacement.

Are Luxury Vinyl Floor Tiles Waterproof?

Water resistance varies depending on the specific product and its composition. Many modern LVT products are indeed waterproof, particularly those with SPC or WPC cores. These core materials, tight interlocking systems and water-resistant surface layers create a floor that withstands moisture exposure. 

However, it is important to note that not all LVT products are fully waterproof. Some traditional LVT with PVC cores may be highly water-resistant but not completely impervious to moisture. These products can typically handle everyday moisture exposure but are not suitable for areas with constant water contact.

While many LVT products offer excellent protection against water damage, waterproof capabilities often refer to the plank or tile itself. Therefore, water may still seep through seams or edges, affecting the subfloor beneath.

Does LVT Need Underlay?

An underlay for luxury vinyl tile flooring depends on several factors including the subfloor condition and desired performance. You should consider the following aspects when determining whether to install an underlay.

Integrated backing

Some LVT products come with a pre-attached underlay or backing. These integrated systems provide sufficient cushioning, sound insulation and moisture protection. In such cases, an additional underlay is typically unnecessary. 

Subfloor condition

The state of the subfloor plays a key role in determining underlay requirements.

• Smooth, level surfaces: If the subfloor is in excellent condition, additional underlay may not be needed for many LVT floors.
• Uneven or damaged subfloors: An underlay helps smooth out minor imperfections, enhancing the final appearance and longevity of the LVT installation.
• Concrete subfloors: A vapour barrier or moisture-resistant underlay may be necessary to prevent moisture migration, especially in below-grade installations.

Sound and thermal insulation

In multistorey buildings, an acoustic underlay greatly reduces impact noise and improves the overall sound insulation. In colder climates or over concrete subfloors, a thermal underlay may improve the floor's warmth and comfort.

Cushioning and comfort

LVT is generally more comfortable underfoot than hard surface flooring. However, an additional underlay may enhance this further making it more pleasant to walk and stand on for extended periods.

Moisture protection

A waterproof underlay can provide an additional layer of protection against water damage. This is particularly beneficial for areas prone to moisture or over subfloors with potential moisture issues. 

Product-specific requirements

Some LVT manufacturers may require or recommend underlays to ensure optimal performance and maintain warranty coverage. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines before making a decision.

Installation method

• Click-lock systems: Designed to be installed as a floating floor and may benefit from an underlay for improved performance.
• Glue-down LVT: Generally does not require an underlay. This is because the adhesive provides a direct bond to the subfloor.

Radiant heating systems

When installing LVT over radiant heating, an underlay may be necessary. This ensures efficient heat transfer and protects the flooring from thermal stress.

Thickness limitations

The additional thickness of an underlay must be factored into the overall flooring system design. Particularly for projects where door clearances or transitions to other flooring types are concerns. 

How to Lay LVT Flooring: 11 Top Tips

To elevate your LVT installation skills, adopting advanced techniques greatly improves the quality and longevity of your work. Here are several advanced methods, along with the tools required and their benefits.

1. Precision cutting

For superior LVT installation, you should consider using a guillotine machine. It produces clean, precise cuts without dust or noise. 

• Use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge for straight cuts. Score the LVT deeply, then snap along the line for a clean break.
• For intricate cuts around obstacles, heat the LVT slightly with a heat gun. This makes it more pliable before cutting.
• Employ a jigsaw with a fine-toothed blade for curved cuts or to cut around pipes. Use a slow speed to prevent melting the vinyl.
• For long cuts, a table saw with a fine-toothed blade provides accurate results.
• When using power tools, cut with the decorative side facing up to prevent chipping.

2. Heat welding for seamless transitions

Heat welding seams is a technique particularly useful in commercial applications. Using a heat welding gun, welding rod, grooving tool and trimming knife, you create a watertight and seamless floor.

This method enhances durability in high-traffic zones and improves hygiene by eliminating crevices where dirt builds up. The result is a more robust LVT installation.

3. Flash coving

Flash coving involves extending LVT up the wall to create a seamless transition between floor and wall. This requires a heat gun, cove former, capping strip and adhesive spreader. 

It is particularly beneficial in wet areas as it eliminates gaps where moisture could penetrate. Flash coving also improves hygiene and creates a smooth, continuous surface from floor to wall.

4. Inlay and border work

Creating custom designs using precisely cut LVT pieces allows for unique installations. This involves using a water jet cutter for complex designs, or a circular saw with a guide for straight cuts. Inlay and border work showcases advanced techniques and increases project value.

5. Radiant heat integration

Installing LVT over radiant heating systems requires careful planning and execution. Using tools like a moisture meter and heat distribution plates, you ensure compatibility between the floor and heating systems. 

This prevents damage to LVT from excessive heat and optimises heat distribution. As a result, you build a high-performance flooring system combining the benefits of LVT with efficient underfloor heating.

6. Moisture mitigation for problematic subfloor

Applying epoxy moisture barriers is crucial for preventing moisture-related failures in LVT installations. This technique involves using a moisture meter, diamond grinder and epoxy application tools like a notched trowel. 

By effectively addressing subfloor moisture issues, you extend the longevity of the flooring system. This allows LVT installation in challenging environments that would otherwise be unsuitable.

7. Laser levelling for perfect planarity

Achieving a perfectly flat subfloor is key for a high-quality LVT installation, especially with large format tiles. Using a rotary laser level, self-levelling compound and a long straight edge, you ensure superior flatness. 

This technique prevents premature wear while enhancing the overall appearance of the finished floor. The result is a visually stunning and long-lasting LVT installation that meets the highest standards of quality.

8. Acclimation chamber construction

Building a controlled environment for LVT acclimation ensures the best installation conditions. Using a portable air conditioner, dehumidifier and thermohygrometer, you create a space where LVT can properly adjust to the environment. 

It ensures proper acclimation in challenging environments and reduces the risk of post-installation expansion or contraction. 

9. Advanced pattern layout

Utilising digital layout software for complex patterns elevates LVT installation. With the help of computer-aided design (CAD) software, you can plan intricate designs. This technique reduces material waste through an optimised layout. 

Also, it enables virtual client approval before installation begins. 

10. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) integration

Installing LVT with conductive properties is crucial for ESD-sensitive areas. This technique involves using a surface resistivity meter, copper strips and conductive adhesive to create safe flooring. 

It meets stringent industry codes for ESD protection (BS EN 61340-5-1 and BS EN 61340-4-1). Also, it adds value to specialised commercial installations, making it a high-demand skill. 

11. Antimicrobial treatment application

Applying antimicrobial coatings to LVT surfaces is important for health-conscious settings. This technique uses an electrostatic sprayer to apply an antimicrobial solution, with proper PPE for safety. It extends the life of the flooring by preventing microbial degradation. 

Can You Use Finishing Techniques on LVT Floors?

Boosting LVT installations beyond installation improves the final product's appearance and performance. The following advanced finishing techniques allow construction professionals to deliver superior results that stand out. 

Micro-beveling

Using a specialised micro-beveling tool, create subtle edges along each plank or tile. It enhances the realistic appearance of wood or stone-look LVT and helps disguise minor subfloor imperfections. Plus, it reduces the risk of edge lifting over time.

Custom grout lines

For tile-look LVT, use a thin-tipped grout pen to add realistic grout lines. This method allows for the customisation of grout colour and width. 

Heat forming

With a heat gun, gently warm LVT planks or tiles for them to be shaped around curved surfaces or columns. It creates seamless installations in challenging architectural spaces. 

Colour matching

For repairs or custom installations, use acrylic-based paints designed for vinyl to colour-match or make unique patterns. This allows for seamless repairs and bespoke designs. 

Texture enhancement

Apply a clear, textured overlay to increase slip resistance or add depth to the LVT surface. It is particularly effective in enhancing the realism of stone-look LVT.