LVT Installation Guide

Stylish, practical flooring with the right preparation

LVT flooring is designed to combine durability, comfort and modern design flexibility, but correct preparation is still essential for a clean, long-lasting result. Good subfloor preparation, careful board inspection and the right installation method all contribute to the final finish.

This page gives a clear overview of best practice before fitting begins, whether you are working with a rigid click system or a glue down LVT floor.

LVT flooring offers a practical and design-led finish, but the best results still depend on careful preparation, correct layout and proper installation technique.

LVT subcategories

Our LVT range includes two main installation approaches, each with its own practical advantages depending on the room, subfloor and project requirements.

Luxury Rigid Vinyl

A click-based rigid core system designed for fast installation, dimensional stability and everyday practicality. This option is ideal where a floating installation method is preferred.

Glue Down LVT

A fully bonded LVT system that offers excellent floor-to-subfloor contact and a refined, low-profile finish when installed over a properly prepared base.

Before you start installation

LVT flooring should be installed only once the room is ready and the site conditions are stable. The flooring should be one of the final stages in the project, after wet trades and major construction work are complete.

All planks or tiles should be inspected before fitting for colour, finish and visible defects. For the best visual result, boards should be blended from multiple packs rather than laid one box at a time.

Before fitting, make sure that:

• The installation area has stable, normal living conditions.
• The subfloor is clean, dry, level and structurally sound.
• All planks or tiles are checked in good light before installation.
• The layout has been planned and the final row width considered.
• Boards are blended from several packs for a more natural overall look.

Subfloor requirements

The subfloor must be dry, stable, clean and level before any LVT installation begins. Uneven bases can create movement, reduce locking performance and affect the final visual finish.

General requirements

• Free from dust, grease, debris and contaminants.
• Structurally sound and fully dry.
• Level within normal flooring tolerances.
• Suitable for the installation system being used.

Common subfloor types

• Plywood and timber-based subfloors
• Concrete slabs
• Existing ceramic tile where properly prepared
• Existing resilient flooring in suitable condition

A level and properly prepared subfloor helps ensure that both click LVT and glue down systems perform correctly and look their best once installed.

Installation methods

LVT flooring may be installed in different ways depending on the construction of the product and the condition of the subfloor. The two main systems in this range are Luxury Rigid Vinyl and Glue Down LVT.

Luxury Rigid Vinyl

This is generally installed as a floating click system. Boards lock together and sit above the prepared subfloor, allowing for a faster and cleaner fitting process when site conditions are suitable.

Glue Down LVT

This method uses adhesive to bond the tiles or planks directly to the subfloor. It requires a well-prepared, very smooth base and is ideal where a more fixed, low-profile finish is preferred.

Step-by-step installation flow

While the exact fitting approach depends on whether the product is rigid click or glue down, the overall preparation and installation flow remains similar.

Key fitting points

• Check all planks or tiles before installation.
• Stagger joints for a natural and balanced appearance where applicable.
• Do not fix skirting or mouldings in a way that restricts floor movement.
• Use the correct tools and materials for the chosen LVT system.
• Keep the floor and work area clean during installation.

Underfloor heating guidance

Some LVT floors may be suitable over underfloor heating systems, but temperature control and correct system type remain important. The system should be suitable for the flooring product and correctly installed beneath the subfloor structure where required.

• Always confirm compatibility before installation.
• Surface temperatures should remain within the product’s recommended limits.
• Rapid heat changes should be avoided.
• The heating should be managed carefully before, during and after installation.

After installation

Once installed, the floor should be kept clean and protected while the space returns to normal use. Furniture and appliances should be moved carefully, and the floor should not be exposed to unnecessary abrasion or residue during finishing works.

• Protect the floor if other works are still being completed.
• Remove dust and loose debris after installation.
• Fit floor protectors to furniture legs.
• Use suitable entrance mats to reduce dirt and grit.
• Clean spills promptly and avoid harsh cleaning chemicals.

Important notes

LVT flooring should always be checked before installation. Once fitted, products are generally considered accepted in appearance and finish. Careful site preparation, correct layout planning and the right installation method all contribute to the final result.

The main difference between the two systems is the fitting approach: Luxury Rigid Vinyl is typically a click-based floating floor, while Glue Down LVT is fully bonded to the subfloor and depends more heavily on a perfectly prepared base.