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What Is LVT Flooring? The Manchester Homeowner’s Guide by Ever After Flooring

By 3 November 2025Resources4 min read

If you’ve

been shopping for new flooring in Manchester, you’ve probably heard the term “LVT flooring” — short for Luxury Vinyl Tile. It’s one of the fastest-growing flooring types in the UK, offering the perfect mix of style, durability, and affordability.

At Ever After Flooring, we’ve seen LVT flooring become the go-to choice for Manchester homeowners who want the luxury look of wood or stone — without the high cost or maintenance.

In this guide, we’ll explain what LVT is, why it’s so popular in Greater Manchester, and how to choose and install it for your home.

What Is LVT Flooring?

LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) is a type of modern vinyl flooring designed to mimic natural materials like hardwood, ceramic, or stone — but with added practicality.

Unlike old-style sheet vinyl, LVT comes in individual tiles or planks, with realistic textures and patterns.

  1. Each plank is made up of multiple layers:
  2. Wear layer – protects against scratches, scuffs, and stains.
  3. Design layer – high-definition photographic print of wood or stone.
  4. Core layer – adds structure and durability.
  5. Backing layer – for stability and moisture resistance.

In short: You get the look of real wood or tile, but with more comfort, easier installation, and far less maintenance.

Why Is LVT Flooring So Popular in Manchester?

Manchester homes come in all styles — from Victorian terraces to modern apartments — and LVT fits them all beautifully.
Here’s why homeowners across Greater Manchester love it:

1. Waterproof & Durable
Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Manchester’s damp climate is no match for LVT’s waterproof layers.

2. Affordable Luxury
Enjoy the high-end look of oak, marble, or slate — for a fraction of the cost of natural materials.

3. Warm & Comfortable
LVT is softer and warmer underfoot compared to tiles or wood, and it’s compatible with underfloor heating — a big plus for Manchester winters.

4. Easy to Maintain
Simply sweep and mop. No sanding, varnishing, or special treatments required.

5. Stylish Variety
Choose from realistic wood-effect, stone-effect, and herringbone designs — all available in our Tameside showroom.

Types of LVT Flooring

There are two main installation types:

Glue-Down LVT (Dryback)

Each tile is glued directly to the subfloor.
Ideal for large or commercial spaces.
More permanent and stable.

Click LVT (Floating Floor)

Tiles click together without glue.
Easier to install — great for DIY projects.
Can be laid over existing floors.

Our Ever After Flooring team can advise which is best for your home — or even handle the full fitting for you anywhere in Manchester.

LVT vs Laminate: What’s the Difference?

While both look similar, they have key differences:

Feature LVT Flooring Laminate Flooring
Waterproof ✅ Yes ❌ No (mostly water-resistant only)
Comfort underfoot Softer & warmer Harder
Noise level Quieter Louder (unless with underlay)
Ideal rooms Bathrooms, kitchens, hallways Living rooms, bedrooms
Installation Click or glue Click only

Tip: Many Manchester homeowners now choose LVT for kitchens & bathrooms and laminate for living areas — we can help you match styles perfectly.

How to Install LVT Flooring

If you’re confident in DIY, Click LVT is quite straightforward:

  1. Prepare your floor – Clean, dry, and level.
  2. Lay underlay (if required) – Some LVTs come with built-in backing.
  3. Click and lock tiles together – Stagger joins for a natural pattern.
  4. Trim edges and finish – Use matching trims or skirting for a polished look.

Or, save the time and effort — our professional LVT installers cover all of Manchester, Stockport, and Tameside, ensuring a perfect finish every time.

How Long Does LVT Flooring Last?

High-quality LVT typically lasts 15–25 years when properly maintained.
It’s built to handle everyday life — from pets and kids to busy family traffic.

For added peace of mind, Ever After Flooring offers manufacturer-backed warranties on all our premium LVT ranges.

Why Choose Ever After Flooring for LVT in Manchester?

  • Local Experts: We’re based in Tameside and serve the whole Manchester area.
  • Huge Selection: From realistic oak-effect LVT to waterproof stone-look tiles.
  • Professional Fitting: Our in-house fitters ensure your LVT looks and performs perfectly.
  • Fast Local Delivery: No long waits or hidden costs.

Visit Our Manchester Showroom or Request a Free Quote
Whether you’re upgrading one room or renovating your entire home, we’ll help you find the perfect LVT flooring for your Manchester property.
Visit our Tameside showroom or contact us today for expert advice, free samples, and professional installation.
Free flooring consultation across Greater Manchester

FAQ Section

1. What does LVT stand for?
LVT stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile, a modern flooring material that combines the look of natural wood or stone with the durability of vinyl.

2. Is LVT flooring waterproof?
Yes — most LVT floors are 100% waterproof, making them perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

3. Can LVT be used with underfloor heating?
Absolutely. It’s one of the best flooring options for underfloor heating in Manchester homes.

4. How much does LVT flooring cost?
Prices vary by brand and style, but quality LVT typically starts around £20–£40 per m² including fitting.

5. Where can I buy LVT flooring in Manchester?
You can explore the latest collections and get expert advice at Ever After Flooring, Tameside — Manchester’s trusted flooring specialists.