If you're not familiar with LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles), then the huge array of brands, ranges, and designs can be a little bit overwhelming. Here we will try to help you understand the main differences and give you some information about the technical specifications of the different ranges.
In order to understand the differences, it helps to know a little about the elements that make up an individual tile. Different manufacturers will use their own combination of materials but most will use a similar variation of the structure in the diagram above. Of these layers, the one that will have most relevance to your choice is the Wear Layer as this often has the biggest impact on price. The wear layer is the part of the tile that protects the design layer from damage. Generally speaking, the thicker the wear layer, the longer you can expect your floor to last (as reflected in manufacturer guarantees) and the more you can expect to pay. The wear layer is also the part of the tile that gives it its texture. Most tiles have a generic texture that gives a wood or stone feel, but some tiles have a more detailed texture that matches the design printed underneath. This is usually referred to as a 'registered embossed finish' and is normally referenced on the display boards of relevant products as well as in relevant brochures.
Another element that can make a big difference to the appearance of your floor is how each tile is edged. Whether you are considering a wood or stone design for your floor, better quality tiles will have a beveled edge to make the tiles look as realistic as possible. This is one of the key benefits of some LVT ranges, as it helps to give definition to each tile and emphasises your chosen laying pattern. Some ranges will feature a full standard bevel (approximately 1mm) while others will have a smaller (micro) bevel. Cheaper ranges may not have a bevel at all.
In the table below, you will see the popular ranges from Amtico, Karndean, Universal and Westex compared side by side with each other. Obviously the most important aspect when choosing your floor is identifying the design or pattern that you like the most, but we hope the information below will help you to decide where to start looking.
All the above ranges are available to view in our showroom. Please note, prices shown are for the tiles only and are correct at time of publication. Installation and sundry materials will be charged separately.