Commercial LVT Flooring Guide: Types, Styles, Maintenance, and Price

December 18, 2023

Are you contemplating a revamp of your commercial property floors? If so, commercial LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) flooring might just be the ideal solution. Noted for its balance of aesthetics, durability, and economic value, it's a popular choice for business owners across the UK looking to upgrade their premises.

Whether you're planning to buy, install, or maintain commercial LVT flooring, this guide is here to help. We'll explore the different types and styles and tell you how to care for them.

Before we dive in, if you want to explore high-quality flooring services, check out our options at All Floors Trade Centre, the go-to place for all your commercial flooring needs!

Is LVT Flooring a Good Choice of Flooring for Commercial Property?

Yes! Commercial LVT flooring is a standout choice for many commercial properties due to its unique blend of affordability, ease of maintenance, and aesthetics. It's also known for its robustness, as it can withstand high traffic, making it ideal for places like shops, offices, or restaurants frequented by numerous people daily.

What Are the Different Types of Commercial LVT Flooring?

Finding the right commercial LVT flooring is now a breeze due to the variety of types available on the market. Here are the three main types you'll find, along with their pros and cons.

Glue-Down

Glue-down LVT flooring involves adhering the tiles directly to a prepared subfloor using a special adhesive. This method offers a highly stable and secure flooring solution. All in all, glue-down LVT flooring is ideal for high-traffic areas and commercial spaces where stability and durability are crucial.

Pros

  • Highly secure due to the use of adhesive.
  • Doesn't show wear and tear signs easily.
  • Offers a smooth and uniform appearance.

Cons

  • The installation process can be more time-consuming compared to other types.

Click-Lock

Also known as "floating" LVT flooring, click-lock tiles are designed to fit together securely without the need for adhesive. The tiles have special designs that "click" into place like a puzzle, forming a tight bond. This LVT flooring type is relatively easy to install and replace if needed, making it a popular choice for businesses that desire flexibility and ease of use.

Pros

  • Easy and quick to install.
  • No adhesive is needed, reducing potential mess.
  • Individual tiles can be replaced if damaged.

Cons

  • Less stable than glue-down options, as the tiles might move under heavy traffic.

Loose-Lay

Loose-lay LVT flooring is the easiest to install. These tiles are laid down without adhesive or locking mechanisms. Instead, they rely on their weight and friction against the subfloor to stay in place. They're perfect for temporary spaces or areas where you may want to change the flooring frequently.

Despite the ease of installation, loose-lay LVT still offers the durability and stylish appeal of other LVT flooring types.

Pros

  • Easy installation and tile replacement.
  • Comes in a variety of styles and patterns.
  • Durable and doesn't show signs of wear easily.

Cons

  • Not as stable as glue-down or click-lock types and might require additional stabilisation in high-traffic areas.

What Are the Styles of Commercial LVT Flooring?

One of the best features of commercial LVT flooring is its versatility in style. Whether you're after a contemporary look or a classic aesthetic, you'll find a style that suits your needs. Below, we explore some common styles.

Tile

LVT tiles come in equally sized, square shapes that emulate a range of materials, from ceramic and stone to abstract prints. They provide a clean, fresh look that is perfect for modern business environments. Tile LVT flooring is also an excellent fit for those aiming for a minimalistic interior.

Pros

  • Offers a clean and professional appearance.
  • Wide range of designs and colours to choose from.
  • Durable and resistant to scratches

Cons

  • Susceptible to water damage because of the seams

Plank

Plank LVT flooring is designed to imitate a variety of hardwoods, like oak and maple, offering a warm and inviting look to any space. It comes in equally sized rectangular shapes that are installed using adhesives or the clicking down mechanism.

Pros

  • Adds warmth and character to the space.
  • Available in a variety of wood types and shades.
  • Durable and stable.

Cons

  • The realistic wood look might not suit ultra-modern interiors.

Patterned

For businesses looking to make a statement, patterned LVT flooring is the way to go. These floors incorporate unique designs, ranging from geometric patterns to intricate mosaics, making them an attractive focal point in any commercial space.

Pros

  • Ideal for both modern and classic interiors.
  • Creates an impactful design statement.
  • Wide range of patterns available.

Cons

  • Some patterns may appear overwhelming in smaller spaces.

Wood

Wood-look LVT flooring is a popular choice for commercial spaces seeking an elegant, timeless look. It successfully captures the natural beauty of wood while offering the durability and easy maintenance of vinyl.

Pros

  • Emulates the classic look of natural wood.
  • Durable and easy to maintain.
  • More susceptible to water damage than natural wood

Cons

  • The surface might feel less authentic to the touch compared to natural wood.

Stone

Stone-look LVT flooring imitates the earthy charm of stone tiles like slate or marble. It's an excellent way to introduce a natural element into the interiors without worrying about the maintenance typically associated with stone flooring.

Pros

  • More budget-friendly than natural stone.
  • Easy to maintain compared to natural stone.
  • Adds an earthy and elegant vibe to the interior.

Cons

  • Doesn't provide the same texture and feel as natural stone.

Textured

Textured LVT flooring adds depth and character to commercial spaces. These floors are designed with a tangible grain or groove pattern, providing an authentic look and enhancing slip resistance – an essential feature for commercial areas.

Pros

  • Adds an extra dimension to the flooring.
  • Enhances slip resistance, improving safety.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • Challenging to clean due to the textured surface.

How Do You Fit Commercial LVT Flooring?

Fitting commercial LVT flooring is a relatively straightforward process, although it requires careful planning and precise execution. Here's a general outline of the steps involved.

1. Prepare the Area

First, you should clear the space where you'll be installing the flooring. Remove any existing floor coverings, furniture, and obstacles.

2. Prepare the Subfloor

The subfloor needs to be flat, clean, dry, and free of any debris before you install the new floor. Any unevenness may show through the LVT flooring over time, so it's crucial to level the subfloor if it's bumpy.

3. Measure and Plan

Accurate measurements are key to avoiding wastage or shortage of material. Consider where you'll start and end and the direction of the tiles or planks. You can measure the room and get its accurate square footage by multiplying its length and width.

4. Cutting the Tiles

The new LVT tiles should be cut to accommodate the room's fixtures, edges, and corners. You can cut them to fit using a utility knife and straight edge.

5. Installation

The LVT installation process differs depending on the type of flooring you choose. For glue-down tiles, an adhesive is spread on the subfloor before the tiles are placed. As for click-lock tiles, they're positioned and then locked together. Finally, loose-lay tiles can simply be laid down in the desired pattern.

6. Finishing

Once all tiles are installed, you should roll over the floor with a flooring roller to ensure good adhesion and to remove any air bubbles.

Please note that while it's possible to fit LVT flooring as a DIY project, it may be best to hire a professional to ensure the fitting is done correctly and to achieve the best finish. Many companies, like All Floors Trade Centre, provide professional fitting services to take the hassle out of your flooring project.

How Do You Maintain Commercial LVT Flooring?

Maintaining LVT flooring is a relatively straightforward process and can be carried out with simple steps. Following a regular cleaning and maintenance routine will ensure your floor stays attractive and durable for years to come. Here's a handy checklist you can follow.

  • Sweep or dust mop your LVT floor daily to avoid the build-up of dirt and grit that can scratch the floor's surface.
  • Use a soft brush attachment to get rid of dust in corners and tight spaces.
  • Wipe up spills promptly to avoid staining by using a damp cloth or mop with a mild soap and water solution.
  • Regularly clean your floor using a pH-neutral floor cleaner, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools.
  • Use entrance mats to catch dirt and grit and protective pads under heavy furniture to prevent indentations.
  • Regularly check your floor for signs of wear or damage and address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.

Is Commercial LVT Flooring Easy to Maintain?

Yes, commercial LVT flooring is effortless to maintain. The reasons for this are the durability of the material and its resistance to stains and spills. 

Simple cleaning routines like sweeping, spot cleaning, and occasional deep cleaning are enough to keep LVT floors looking their best. On top of that, their resistance to wear and tear reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

What Is the Cost of Commercial LVT Flooring?

The cost of commercial LVT flooring can vary depending on the type, style, and size of the space. Here's a breakdown of the costs you should expect if you install a new LVT floor.

Material Costs

The material cost of LVT flooring typically ranges between £20 to £50 per square metre. Remember, this number can vary depending on the quality, brand, and style you choose. More intricate designs or styles that mimic high-end materials like marble or exotic wood can cost more.

Installation Expenses

In terms of installation, the costs can also fluctuate based on the complexity of the process and the rates of the professionals you hire.

On average, for a professional installation, you should expect to pay between £15 to £25 per square metre. This cost includes preparing the subfloor, fitting the new LVT flooring, and finishing. However, it can go higher if the existing floor needs to be removed or the subfloor requires additional preparation.

Generally, it's always wise to request a complete quote before proceeding with the project to avoid any hidden costs or surprises further down the line.

What Is the Best Type of Commercial Flooring?

Here are some of the most common and highly recommended flooring types for commercial spaces.

  • LVT flooring: LVTs are a versatile, durable, and cost-effective option that comes in a variety of styles. It's excellent for areas with high foot traffic.
  • Carpet tiles: Ideal for offices, carpet tiles offer comfort underfoot and excellent noise reduction. They're also easy to replace if stained or damaged.
  • Ceramic tiles: Extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear, ceramic tiles work well in high-traffic areas like retail stores. They also come in a wide range of design options.
  • Rubber flooring: Rubber flooring is resilient, slip-resistant, and capable of withstanding heavy loads. It's particularly suited to gyms and industrial settings.
  • Hardwood flooring: Hardwood floors can uplift the look of any commercial space but require more maintenance than other options. They're widely loved for their aesthetic appeal.
  • Laminate flooring: A cost-effective alternative to hardwood, laminate flooring is durable, easy to maintain, and available in a variety of styles.

Remember, the best flooring option for your business will depend on your personal preference, the nature of your business, and your budget. It's always best to speak to a flooring specialist if you don't know which type to go with.

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal flooring for your commercial space is an essential step in creating an attractive and functional work area. Taking into account the durability, versatility, and practical maintenance of LVT flooring, it's clear why this option is so famous for businesses across the UK.

Whether you prioritise ease of maintenance, affordability, or durability, commercial LVT flooring ticks all these boxes superbly. It's also easy to fit and comes in a wide range of patterns and styles.
If you feel like you've found the best flooring option for your specific needs, reach out to us at All Floors Trade Centre, and we'll help you navigate the range of LVT flooring styles and types!