LVT Guidance

What subfloor is best for LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)?

The best subfloor for LVT is one that is smooth, solid, dry, and level. Suitable subfloors include:

Concrete or sand/cement screed

Plywood (minimum 6mm flooring grade, properly fixed)

Existing tiles (if level and prepared correctly)

For the best results, the surface must be:

Smooth to within ±3mm over 2 metres

Free from dust, grease, and movement

Fully dry (moisture tested where required

In most cases, we apply a self-levelling compound (latex screed) to create a perfectly smooth finish before installation. Proper subfloor preparation is essential to ensure the LVT performs well and lasts for years.

LVT is fully compatible with underfloor heating systems, both electric and water-based.

However, correct installation is key:

The subfloor temperature must not exceed 27°C

Heating should be turned off 24–48 hours before installation

It should remain off during installation and be gradually brought back up to temperature afterwards

We always check moisture levels and ensure the floor is properly prepared before fitting over underfloor heating.

Different flooring types require specific adhesives to ensure a strong and lasting bond:

LVT (Dry Back):

Pressure-sensitive adhesive (e.g. acrylic-based)

Applied evenly and allowed to tack before laying tiles/planks

Carpet:

Spray adhesive or tackifier for domestic use

Heavy-duty adhesive for commercial installations

Vinyl Sheet:

Wet set vinyl adhesive

Requires correct open time and rolling after installation

Wood Flooring (Engineered):

Flexible polyurethane (PU) adhesive

Allows for natural movement in the wood

Carpet Tiles:

Tackifier adhesive (allows tiles to be lifted and replaced if needed)

The choice of screed depends on the existing subfloor and project requirements:

Latex Self-Levelling Compound:

Ideal for smoothing uneven floors

Flexible and fast drying

Perfect for LVT and vinyl preparation

Fibre-Reinforced Screed:

Used where extra strength is needed

Reduces risk of cracking

Fast-Drying Screeds:

Ideal for projects on a tight schedule

Can be ready for flooring in as little as 24 hours

Traditional Sand & Cement Screed:

Used for new builds or major floor levelling

Requires longer drying times

We select the correct screed based on:

Subfloor condition

Moisture levels

Type of flooring being installed

LVT offers a wide range of stylish design options, including:

Straight lay (plank style)

Brick bond / staggered pattern

Herringbone (very popular)

Chevron

Parquet-style designs

Tile effect (stone or marble look)

We can help you choose a pattern that suits your space and creates the look you want.

What installation temperatures are required?

For the best results, flooring should be installed in a controlled environment:

Room temperature: 18°C – 27°CSubfloor temperature: minimum 15°C

Relative humidity: ideally between 40% – 65%

All flooring materials should be acclimatised in the room for at least 24–48 hours before installation...

How important is subfloor preparation?

Subfloor preparation is one of the most important parts of any flooring installation.

Our preparation process includes:

Cleaning and removing old adhesives or debris

Moisture testing where required

Priming the subfloor

Applying screed or levelling compound

Sanding and smoothing surfaces where needed

Skipping proper preparation can lead to:

Uneven flooring

Adhesive failure

Visible imperfections

Reduced lifespan of the floor

We ensure every floor is prepared to the highest standard before installation begins.

How important is subfloor preparation?

Subfloor preparation is one of the most important parts of any flooring installation.

Our preparation process includes:

Cleaning and removing old adhesives or debris

Moisture testing where required

Priming the subfloor

Applying screed or levelling compound

Sanding and smoothing surfaces where needed

Skipping proper preparation can lead to:

Uneven flooring

Adhesive failure

Visible imperfections

Reduced lifespan of the floor

We ensure every floor is prepared to the highest standard before installation begins.