The 5 Biggest LVT Installation Mistakes (And How to Fix Them) – UK London Flooring Fitters’ Guide
- Charlie Mac
- Aug 3
- 3 min read
“If your subfloor isn’t flat and dry, even the best LVT won’t last.” – John Davies, Experienced UK Floor Fitter
Introduction
Imagine investing time and money into stunning luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, only to watch it buckle and warp within weeks. UK floor fitters regularly witness homeowners making common yet costly mistakes that sabotage their flooring projects. This guide reveals five critical errors you must avoid for flawless LVT installation that stands the test of time.
Why Choose LVT Flooring?
Beautifully mimics real wood, stone, or ceramic at a lower cost.
Waterproof, durable, and scratch-resistant, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
With correct installation, lasts up to 20 years.
However, great results depend entirely on avoiding installation pitfalls.
Mistake 1: Poor Subfloor Preparation – The Silent Floor Killer
A perfectly installed LVT floor begins with meticulous subfloor preparation. Even minor imperfections can drastically reduce your floor’s lifespan.
Pro Advice:
Check your subfloor with a spirit level or straight edge. Industry standard deviation should be no more than 3mm over a 2-metre span.
On timber subfloors, screw down loose boards and use a smoothing compound on joints. For concrete, utilise a self-levelling compound.
Ensure subfloor cleanliness, remove dust, adhesive residues, and protrusions.
Flooring365 provides further expert tips on preparing your subfloor.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Critical Acclimation Period
LVT flooring expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. Skipping acclimation can result in warping or gapping.
Pro Advice:
Acclimate planks for 48–72 hours at a stable room temperature (18–24°C).
LVT, being polymer-based, reacts significantly to environmental conditions. This acclimation allows the material to reach equilibrium moisture content (EMC), preventing future issues.
Mistake 3: Choosing the Wrong Thickness & Misunderstanding Click Systems
Confusion around thickness is common. Two thicknesses matter: overall thickness for stability and wear layer thickness for durability.
Pro Advice:
Opt for a minimum overall thickness of 6mm–8mm, preferably 8mm–15mm, to ensure joint stability and resistance to load stress.
Choose at least a 0.3mm wear layer for residential use, and at least 0.5mm for commercial or high-traffic zones.
Online forums and professional discussions consistently highlight that LVT under 5mm in overall thickness, especially with a click system, is prone to joint failure.
Mistake 4: Neglecting Moisture Protection & Underlay
Ignoring moisture protection can cause severe damage, especially on concrete or damp-prone areas.
Pro Advice:
Install a damp-proof membrane (DPM) on concrete subfloors in line with British Standards (BS 8203) to prevent moisture damage.
Confirm if your chosen LVT includes built-in underlay; adding unnecessary underlay can disrupt click systems.
For more in-depth information on UK building standards for moisture control, refer to the official government guidelines.
Mistake 5: Forgetting Expansion Gaps and Poor Layout Planning
Expansion gaps allow your LVT flooring to breathe naturally, preventing buckling.
Pro Advice:
Maintain a 6–10mm gap around room perimeters and fixed objects.
Plan layouts carefully; stagger seams and avoid repetitive patterns to create a natural aesthetic.
Mersey Flooring further emphasises careful layout preparation.
Quick Summary Table
Mistake | Impact | Recommended Fix |
Poor subfloor prep | Buckling, shortened lifespan | Level properly, clean thoroughly |
No acclimation | Warping, expansion gaps | Acclimate for 48–72 hours |
Wrong thickness | Joint failures, instability | Choose ≥6–8mm overall thickness |
Moisture protection | Floor damage, mould growth | Use moisture barriers |
Ignoring expansion gaps | Buckling, seam separation | Leave 6–10mm gaps |
FAQ
Q: Can I install LVT over underfloor heating (UFH)?
A: Yes, provided your LVT is UFH-rated. Follow the heating protocol precisely to prevent damage.
Q: Glue-down vs click-lock LVT – which is better?
A: Glue-down suits uneven subfloors and high-traffic areas, while click-lock is quicker to install but demands impeccable preparation.
Q: Is LVT easy for DIY installations?
A: Yes, but correct subfloor prep, acclimation, and precise installation steps are critical. Hiring a professional reduces risk.
Final Thoughts
I've personally experienced floors buckling after ignoring proper expansion gaps—an expensive mistake. Follow these pro guidelines carefully, and your LVT floor can remain pristine for decades. For tailored advice, consult a trusted UK flooring professional to safeguard your investment.
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