How to Choose the Perfect LVT for High-Traffic Areas – Expert UK Guide
- Charlie Mac
- Aug 3
- 3 min read
“Choosing the wrong flooring for busy areas can cost you thousands in repairs and replacements. The right LVT can last over a decade, even in the toughest environments.” – Sarah Mitchell, UK Flooring Specialist
Selecting the ideal Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) for high-traffic areas is a decision that goes beyond colour and style. With heavy footfall, durability, safety, and maintenance become critical. In this expert UK guide, we break down everything you need to know to avoid costly mistakes and get the most from your investment.
1. Prioritise Wear Layer Thickness
The wear layer is your first line of defence against scratches, dents, and wear. For high-traffic areas, experts recommend:
0.5mm (20 mil) minimum wear layer for commercial or busy household settings.
A 0.7mm (28 mil) wear layer for extreme conditions such as retail or hospitality spaces.
A thicker wear layer directly impacts lifespan and resilience. Karndean’s official specifications confirm that commercial-rated LVT with a 0.5mm+ wear layer offers superior long-term performance.
2. Choose Commercial-Grade Ratings
Not all LVT is created equal. Check for industry-standard ratings:
EN 685 Classification: Aim for 33 or 34 class for heavy commercial use.
AC Ratings (used for surface durability): Higher AC levels withstand more abrasion and traffic.
The Contract Flooring Association (CFA) recommends verifying these ratings before purchase to ensure suitability for high-demand areas.
3. Select the Right Installation Method
Glue-down LVT is often the best choice for high-traffic environments:
Glue-down systems offer maximum stability and minimal movement under heavy use.
Click systems are easier to install but may be prone to joint separation when exposed to high levels of foot traffic or heavy rolling loads.
The CFA advises glue-down installations for commercial spaces due to their longevity and resistance to shifting.
4. Focus on Slip Resistance
Safety is paramount. LVT products have slip resistance ratings from R9 to R12, with R12 offering the highest level of slip protection. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), choosing flooring with enhanced slip resistance significantly reduces accident risks, especially in wet or spill-prone areas.
5. Opt for Easy Maintenance and PUR Coatings
Busy areas require surfaces that can withstand frequent cleaning:
Look for PUR (Polyurethane) coatings that resist staining and make cleaning effortless.
Brands like Amtico Commercial offer PUR-treated LVT specifically designed for demanding environments.
This reduces both maintenance time and long-term costs, keeping your floor looking new for longer.
6. Ensure Proper Subfloor Preparation
Even the best LVT can fail if the subfloor isn’t properly prepared:
Subfloor levels should not deviate more than 3mm over a 2m span.
Conduct moisture testing and install a damp-proof membrane (DPM) if required, following British Standards (BS 8203).
A smooth, dry, and stable base is critical for preventing future problems like lifting or bubbling.
FAQs
What is the most durable LVT for high-traffic areas?
Commercial-rated LVT with a 0.5mm+ wear layer and PUR coating offers the highest durability.
Can I use click LVT in commercial settings?
Click systems can work in lighter commercial areas but glue-down LVT is more reliable for heavy use.
How do I know if LVT is slip-resistant?
Look for R-ratings on product specifications (R9 to R12), with R12 being the safest option for slippery conditions.
Is subfloor preparation really necessary?
Yes, poor subfloor prep is one of the leading causes of LVT failure, especially in high-traffic environments.
Further Reading and Resources
My Take as a UK Flooring Specialist
Having installed LVT in hundreds of high-traffic settings, I can confidently say that wear layer thickness and proper subfloor prep are the two most overlooked factors. Get these right, and you’ll avoid 90% of the problems I’m called out to fix later. Check out our other post ( 5 Biggest LVT Installation Mistakes) for more in depth help.
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