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Stylish, durable and waterproof flooring
It’s a high-quality vinyl flooring product that comes in either tile or plank formats. Unlike old-fashioned sheet vinyl, LVT pieces are laid individually, allowing for more realistic textures and designs – many people can’t tell it apart from real hardwood or tile at first glance! LVT floors are constructed in layers: a tough wear layer on top (often scratch-resistant and waterproof), a high-resolution printed design layer (that gives the wood or stone look), a rigid or flexible core for stability, and a backing layer. The result is a floor that’s comfortable underfoot, quiet, and exceptionally resilient against scuffs, spills, and dents.
Advanced printing and embossing techniques give LVT an incredibly realistic appearance. You can enjoy the natural look of oak planks, marble tiles, slate, or even intricate parquet patterns. The texture can mimic wood grain or stone grooves, adding to the illusion. It’s a great way to get the high-end look you want (even exotic hardwoods or rare stones) at a fraction of the cost and with none of the material’s drawbacks.
Most LVT products are 100% waterproof, which means they won’t swell or warp if exposed to moisture. This makes LVT ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and basements – places where real wood might not be suitable. Spilled a drink or have pet accidents? Simply wipe it up. LVT’s protective wear layer also makes it stain-resistant and easy to clean, just routine sweeping and the occasional mop with a gentle cleaner will keep it looking great.
With a wear layer that can range from standard to extra thick, LVT is built to handle heavy foot traffic. High heels, dog claws, energetic children playing – LVT can take it! Many of our LVT options come with long residential warranties (15 years, 20 years, even lifetime) because they’re confident the floor will last. It’s a popular choice for open-plan areas and entryways where you need a floor that’s tough.
Unlike stone or ceramic which can be cold and hard, LVT is softer and warmer underfoot. It has a slight give, making it more comfortable to stand on for long periods (your back and knees will thank you during that long cooking session!). It also tends to be quieter – you won’t get the loud click of shoes or echoey acoustics you might with laminate or tile. For multi-level homes, this can reduce noise between floors.
LVT is very versatile in design. You can lay it in traditional plank or tile formats, or get creative with patterns. For instance, you can do a herringbone pattern with wood-look LVT planks, or incorporate feature strips and borders around tile looks to mimic grout lines or decorative inlays. The possibilities are exciting! And if one piece gets damaged, you can replace individual tiles/planks rather than the whole floor.
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At Connaught, we’ve curated a top-notch collection of luxury vinyl tiles from leading brands (including options comparable to Amtico and Karndean, which are renowned in the LVT world). Whether you prefer the rustic charm of weathered barnwood, the sleek coolness of grey slate, or the clean lines of parquet, we have samples in our showroom for you to explore. Can’t find the exact shade you want? We can source from a vast catalogue of designs – just ask!
We were among the first flooring shops in the country to start fitting LVT, and with that comes a wealth of knowledge. Our installation team is specially trained in the methods unique to LVT. Proper subfloor preparation is crucial – we’ll make sure your subfloor is smooth, dry, and level, often using a screed or plywood base so that the LVT lies perfectly flat (any little bump or dip could show otherwise). Our fitters know how to work with the material to allow for expansion if needed, and how to apply finishing touches like matching floor trim or doorway transitions for a polished result.
Browse this section for real textures, close-ups, and style ideas to help you picture how the Luxury Vinyl Tiles could look in your space.
LVTWe have kids and a dog, so we needed something tough. We really wanted real wood, but was persuaded to look at their LVT ranges. It looks the part and everyone thinks its an original feature to the house.
They are different. Laminate is typically a wood-based core with a photo layer and a clear top, and is not fully waterproof (water can damage its core). LVT is a vinyl-based product, waterproof through-and-through and often more durable in heavy-use scenarios. LVT also tends to have more texture options and can feel warmer underfoot. Both are floating options (in some cases) and can look like wood or stone, but LVT is generally considered a more premium, resilient product – especially for areas prone to moisture.
Yes, many LVT products are compatible with underfloor heating (including many of the lines we carry). They conduct heat well and won’t be damaged as long as the heating system is regulated (typically keep the subfloor temperature below about 27°C, but we’ll check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific product). Always inform us if you have or plan to install underfloor heating so we can ensure the adhesive and product are suitable. With proper installation, you can absolutely enjoy a toasty warm LVT floor in winter – a popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens.
High-quality LVT is quite resistant to fading, as the wear layer often includes UV protection. Over many years, you might see slight lightening if a portion of the floor is under intense direct sunlight daily (like a big window) – but it’s generally minimal compared to, say, natural hardwood which can noticeably fade or change colour. If you have a very sunny room, using blinds or UV window film can help, but most homeowners don’t find fading to be an issue with LVT. The designs are colourfast and designed to maintain their hue.
A properly installed, good-quality LVT floor can easily last 15-20 years or more in a busy household – that’s why so many come with lengthy warranties. The key is choosing a product with an appropriate wear layer thickness (we’ll guide you based on the room usage – for example, we’ll opt for a heavy duty wear layer for an entry hallway). Routine care like sweeping grit (to prevent abrasion) and using protective pads under furniture will also extend its life. The great thing is LVT doesn’t really “wear out” in the way carpet does; you won’t see traffic lanes. It may get some micro-scratches over time, but these are usually not noticeable unless viewed at an angle with certain light.
We only supply LVT from reputable manufacturers that adhere to safety standards. Most of our LVT products are low-VOC and FloorScore® certified, meaning they meet strict indoor air quality requirements. There might be a mild “new floor” smell right after installation (not much different from a freshly painted room) but it dissipates quickly. We advise airing out the room during and after installation – which is standard for any type of flooring. Rest assured, once installed, LVT is considered inert and safe, so you can comfortably use it in bedrooms, nurseries, etc.