Fact or fiction? Why you may be wrong about LVT flooring
Have you admired a Karndean floor in a magazine or seen a design you like in one of our independent retail stores but you’ve heard negative stories about vinyl flooring and you’re just not sure it’s for you? We get it.
There are lots of misconceptions out there and often this is because the stories confuse sheet vinyl and laminate with luxury vinyl flooring. So we’re here to bust those myths!
Clifton from our Heritage Collection.
Myth: LVT looks cheap
Busted: Advancements in technology have transformed the design possibilities for LVT. Today’s high-quality luxury vinyl flooring features high-definition prints and intricate embossing that accurately replicates the appearance of natural materials like wood, stone and ceramic.
Take our Art Select wood collection as just one example. Each design showcases detailed textures, knots and grains that are taken from real timber, delivering an ultra-authentic finish. The result? A luxurious, high-end look with added durability and ease of maintenance.
Myth: LVT isn’t compatible with underfloor heating
Busted: Perhaps you’ve heard that LVT is unsafe when laid over underfloor heating. In fact, whichever design you choose, your Karndean floor will be fully compatible with both wet and dry underfloor heating solutions, making your home even more cosy underfoot. Proper installation is key, so always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to achieve the best performance and longevity.
Myth: Vinyl flooring is toxic
Busted: Concerns about the safety of vinyl flooring often stem from outdated perceptions. As a reputable manufacturer of quality LVT, we adhere to stringent safety standards. Our products are free from harmful chemicals such as ortho-phthalates and heavy metals, ensuring they are safe for indoor use. Furthermore, our flooring has been independently tested and certified low VOC (volatile organic compounds), promoting healthy air quality. So you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your flooring contributes to a safe and comfortable living environment.
Myth: One scratch will ruin the whole floor
Busted: While our flooring is known for its exceptional durability, accidents can happen. But this needn’t be a disaster. Unlike other types of flooring that may require large sections to be replaced, individual planks or tiles can be swapped out if damaged. This practical feature saves time, money and resources, making Karndean flooring a smart, long-term investment.
Baltic Limed Oak from our Van Gogh collection.
Myth: All LVT requires specialist installation
Busted: Well actually, this depends on the format you choose. For example, if you want an intricate bespoke design or have set your heart on an interesting border pattern, you’ll want the flexibility of a gluedown floor. This will give you the look you want and a secure, long-lasting finish but requires a specialist installer and meticulous subfloor preparation.
Alternatively, a rigid core click-locking floor offers a more DIY-friendly approach, requiring less labour and can accommodate uneven or existing hard floors such as tiles, saving preparation time.
Hopefully, this has set your mind at rest but if you have any other questions, why not head over to our FAQ section or pop in to ask your local retailer.