The best flooring for a busy family home

best flooring for busy family

Why Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) Is the Best Choice for Families

When it comes to creating a family-friendly home, your choice of flooring is one of the most important decisions. Between messy meals, pet claws, and endless playtime, your floors need to handle it all—while still looking great. At Floors for Paws, we believe that Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) is the ultimate flooring solution for families. Here’s why;

What Is Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT)?

Luxury Vinyl Flooring is a modern flooring solution that combines durability, practicality, and style. Designed to mimic the look of hardwood or stone, LVT is made from multiple layers that ensure toughness, water resistance, and comfort underfoot.

Top Reasons LVT Is the Best Flooring for Families

1. Unmatched Durability

Family life can be hectic, with kids running around and pets leaving their mark. LVT is built to withstand heavy traffic, scratches, and dents, making it a long-lasting option for busy households.
• Scratch-Resistant: Perfect for homes with pets, especially dogs, as it resists claw marks.
• Impact-Resistant: Withstands dropped toys, furniture, and the occasional spill.

2. 100% Water Resistance

Accidental spills are inevitable in family life, but with LVT, you don’t need to worry.
• Waterproof Surface: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and dining areas where spills are frequent.
• No Warping: Unlike hardwood, LVT doesn’t swell or warp when exposed to moisture.

Whether it’s juice spills or wet paw prints, LVT is ready for anything.

3. Zero Maintenance

Let’s face it—families don’t have time for high-maintenance flooring. LVT makes cleaning a breeze.
• Simple Cleaning: A quick sweep or mop is all you need to keep it looking pristine.
• Stain Resistant: The protective top layer prevents stains from setting in.

This zero-maintenance quality is a lifesaver for parents and pet owners alike.

4. Safe and Comfortable

Your flooring should keep your family safe and comfortable. LVT delivers on both fronts:
• Slip-Resistant Options: Reduces the risk of falls, even in high-moisture areas.
• Comfort Underfoot: Softer and warmer than traditional stone or tile, making it more comfortable for playtime.

5. Stylish and Versatile

Just because it’s practical doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. LVT is available in a wide range of designs to suit any home.
• Wood and Stone Looks: Get the appearance of premium materials without the drawbacks.
• Variety of Colors: Choose tones that match your family’s aesthetic.

At Floors for Paws, we offer designs that are both trendy and timeless, so your home stays stylish for years to come.

Why LVT Is Perfect for Families with Pets

If you have furry friends, LVT is hands down the best flooring option:
• Scratch Protection: Resists wear and tear from claws and rough play.
• Odor-Free: Unlike carpets, LVT doesn’t trap pet odors.
• Easy Cleanup: Muddy paw prints wipe away effortlessly.

At Floors for Paws, we specialize in pet-friendly LVT flooring that stands up to even the most energetic pets.

Real-Life Benefits of LVT for Families

Here’s how families benefit from choosing LVT for their home:
• Stress-Free Living: You don’t have to worry about kids or pets damaging your floors.
• Cost Savings: With its durability and easy maintenance, LVT saves you money on repairs and cleaning.
• Long-Lasting Beauty: Unlike other materials, LVT keeps its good looks even after years of use.

Transform Your Home with Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we believe every family deserves flooring that works as hard as they do. Our pet-friendly LVT options are:
• Durable: Built to last through years of family fun.
• Safe: vet endorsed non-slip options available
• Eco-Friendly: Many of our products are sustainably sourced.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to finding the best flooring for families, Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVT) ticks every box. From its durability to its stylish versatility, it’s a practical and beautiful choice that will keep up with your busy lifestyle.

Ready to upgrade your family’s floors?

Visit Floors for Paws today to explore our range of LVT options. We’ll help you find the perfect flooring solution for your family and furry friends!

Common myths about vinyl flooring

We look at some of the most common misconceptions about vinyl flooring and set the record straight.

Vinyl flooring has gained immense popularity over the past decade, thanks to its affordability, durability, and design versatility. However, a number of myths continue to surround vinyl flooring, causing some homeowners to be hesitant about using it.

Vinyl flooring looks cheap and unattractive

One of the most common myths is that vinyl flooring looks cheap and lacks aesthetic appeal. This notion is outdated. Modern vinyl flooring, especially luxury vinyl planks and luxury vinyl tiles, can realistically mimic the appearance of natural materials like hardwood, stone, and ceramic. Advanced printing technology gives vinyl products realistic textures and designs that often make them indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. With a range of colours, patterns, and textures available, vinyl flooring can enhance any style of interior, from rustic to contemporary.

Vinyl flooring is not durable

Contrary to popular belief, vinyl flooring is highly durable and can withstand heavy traffic in both residential and commercial spaces. While earlier forms of vinyl might have lacked durability, today’s vinyl products are engineered to last. Luxury vinyl planks, for example, are made from multiple layers that include a protective top layer, a wear layer, and a rigid core, which makes them resistant to scratches, stains, and dents. High-quality vinyl floors are water-resistant or even waterproof too, making them ideal for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. With proper care and maintenance, vinyl flooring can easily last 10 to 20 years or more.

It is difficult to maintain

Some believe that vinyl flooring is challenging to maintain, but in reality, vinyl floors are some of the easiest to care for. Unlike hardwood that requires frequent polishing and protective treatments, vinyl floors need only routine sweeping and occasional mopping. Since they are water-resistant, spills can be wiped up easily without fear of warping or staining. However, to prolong their lifespan, it’s best to avoid abrasive cleaners, which can degrade the protective layer. Overall, vinyl flooring is low-maintenance and requires only simple cleaning. Read more in How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners.

It releases harmful chemicals

Concerns about indoor air quality and the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have led to a misconception that vinyl flooring is unhealthy. While it’s true that older vinyl products sometimes released harmful VOCs, today’s vinyl flooring products are much safer. Most modern vinyl flooring is produced with low or zero VOCs, meeting strict safety standards set by regulatory bodies, which allows homeowners to feel confident about choosing vinyl flooring without compromising their indoor air quality.

It can’t be used in high-traffic areas

A common misconception is that vinyl flooring is only suitable for low-traffic areas due to wear concerns. In reality, vinyl is specifically engineered to withstand high-traffic environments and is widely used in commercial spaces such as offices, restaurants, and retail stores. Luxury vinyl planks include enhanced protective layers that resist scratches, dents, and daily wear. Additionally, since vinyl is water-resistant, it handles moisture and spills better than many other types of flooring, making it a reliable choice especially for high-traffic homes with children and pets.

Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly over the years, both in terms of quality and design. Modern vinyl products offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for a variety of settings. By dispelling these myths, homeowners can make more informed choices and enjoy the advantages that vinyl flooring brings to their spaces.

Pet-friendly vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, we offer three ranges of vinyl flooring:

The Pawsafe Domestic range – developed alongside vets and CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), the Pawsafe Domestic range is the best flooring for dogs currently on the market. With the highest slip rating available, this superior quality flooring has 5 layers for durability including a comfort layer plus a generous wear layer. See here for all the options available.

The Pawsafe Commercial range – Ideal for any commercial premises, including veterinary surgeries, dog day care centres, pet grooming parlours, and pet-friendly cafes, the Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied as a sheet vinyl option; this offers a durable and waterproof solution for establishments that experience high volumes of traffic. Find out more in our Guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring.

The Luxury Vinyl range – our selection of luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) is a realistic looking flooring option for anywhere in the home. With advanced designs in a choice of wood- or stone-effect finishes, this is the perfect flooring for anywhere in the home.

To find out more about flooring from Floors for Paws, email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or call 01522 300218.

Is vinyl flooring good for commercial use?

Is vinyl flooring a good fit for all commercial spaces? In our latest blog post, we dive into the benefits of vinyl flooring for commercial use.

When choosing flooring for a commercial space, business owners must consider durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and cost. Vinyl flooring has become a popular choice in many commercial settings due to its versatility, affordability, and practicality, but for businesses that welcome 4-legged clients and customers, their vinyl flooring need to be dog friendly too. At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Commercial range ticks all the boxes.

Durability and resilience

One of the primary reasons vinyl flooring is widely used in commercial spaces is its durability. Vinyl flooring, especially luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and vinyl plank flooring, is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for busy areas like offices, retail stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. The Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied on the roll so that fewer seams and joins are required, making it ideal for any location with heavy foot traffic requiring regular deep cleaning.

Our commercial vinyl flooring has a protective coating that guards against dog claw scratches, dents, and stains, helping the floor to maintain its appearance after years of use.

Low maintenance

Maintaining vinyl flooring is relatively simple, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Daily cleaning typically involves sweeping or vacuuming to remove dust and debris, while occasional mopping with mild cleaning solutions keeps it looking fresh. Unlike hardwood or natural stone flooring, vinyl doesn’t require refinishing, resealing, or frequent polishing, reducing maintenance costs. Our blog will tell you how to clean sheet vinyl floors, as well as how to keep pet-friendly flooring clean.

In commercial settings where time is money, the ease of maintaining vinyl floors can be a significant advantage. Businesses can maintain a professional and polished appearance without spending much time or many resources on upkeep. In environments where hygiene and cleanliness are important – such as veterinary surgeries and dog day care centres – being able to deep clean your flooring regularly, is crucial.

Water and stain resistance

Another major advantage of vinyl flooring is its water resistance. Vinyl is non-porous, meaning it repels moisture, which makes it an excellent choice for areas that are prone to spills or high humidity, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and medical facilities. Unlike hardwood, which can warp or swell when exposed to moisture, vinyl remains unaffected, making it particularly suitable for commercial spaces where liquid spills are frequent.

In addition to being water-resistant, Pawsafe Commercial vinyl flooring is also highly resistant to dog pee. This makes it an excellent option for environments like pet grooming parlours and canine cafes, where dog pee accidents are as common as food and drink spillages.

Cost-effectiveness

Commercial spaces often require large areas of flooring, and roll vinyl can be a cost-effective solution compared to other materials like hardwood, ceramic tile, or natural stone. Vinyl flooring is affordable to purchase, and, since it requires minimal maintenance and has a long lifespan, businesses can save on long-term upkeep costs, making it a wise investment for commercial use.

Design versatility

Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with the introduction of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and vinyl plank flooring. At Floors for Paws, our Luxury Vinyl range and our Pawsafe Domestic range are both available in a choice of stone- or wood-effect finishes, and are offered in a wide selection of colours. This design flexibility allows businesses to create stylish interiors both modern and traditional.

Commercial vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws

If you are looking for a safe and comfortable flooring solution for pets and their owners, our Pawsafe Commercial vinyl flooring is perfect. With a textured, anti-slip wear layer, cushion comfort layer plus high density backing, this commercial non slip flooring is offered with a 10-year commercial guarantee. Choose up to three free samples to see for yourself, or call our friendly sales team on 01522 300218 to discuss your commercial requirements today.

Vinyl flooring for the whole house: a comprehensive guide

Best flooring for dogs

With the wide choice available, vinyl flooring can be used in every room in the home, and here’s how.

 

Vinyl flooring has surged in popularity over the past few years, emerging as the go-to option for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces. Today, with technological advances in production techniques, and now featuring the perfect blend of style, durability, and affordability, vinyl flooring has become a versatile choice suitable for the entire house.

Benefits of Vinyl Flooring

Affordability – one of the most appealing aspects of vinyl flooring is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to hardwood or tile, vinyl offers a similar aesthetic at a fraction of the price. This affordability allows homeowners to achieve the desired look without breaking the bank.

Durability – vinyl flooring is designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday life. It’s water-resistant, making it an excellent choice for high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. With proper care, quality vinyl flooring can last 10 to 20 years or even longer.

Choice of format – vinyl flooring is available in various formats, including planks, tiles, and sheets, suitable for anywhere in the home.

Variety of styles – vinyl flooring comes in an array of colours, patterns, and textures. From realistic wood- and stone-effect looks to designs emulating the look of ceramic tiles, there’s a vinyl option for every aesthetic preference. This versatility makes it easy to coordinate with your home’s decor.

Comfort underfoot – vinyl flooring is softer and warmer than tile or hardwood, providing a comfortable surface to walk on. The Pawsafe Domestic range has a high density fleece backing, for greater comfort and noise reduction.

Types of Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring – vinyl planks mimic the appearance of hardwood and are often chosen for living areas and bedrooms. They come in various styles and our luxury vinyl flooring planks are ideal for creating beautiful and traditional herringbone designs.

Vinyl tile flooring – vinyl tiles are available in our luxury vinyl range and as part of our Pawsafe Domestic range and are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. They are easy to maintain and water resistant so perfect for areas of high moisture.

Sheet vinyl flooring – our sheet vinyl, the Pawsafe Commercial range – is supplied on the roll, making it a great option for covering large areas without seams. It is particularly effective in moisture-prone rooms due to its water-resistant nature.

Luxury vinyl flooring – luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) and planks (LVP) offer the highest quality and realism. They feature thicker wear layers and advanced designs, making them suitable for anywhere in the home.

Installing vinyl flooring

Before installing vinyl flooring throughout your home, consider the following:

Subfloor preparation – a smooth, clean subfloor is essential for a successful installation. Any imperfections can affect the appearance and durability of the vinyl. Read how to prepare your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring for more help.

Professional installation vs. DIY – while many homeowners can tackle vinyl flooring installations themselves, at Floor for Paws we always recommend the use of professional installation engineers. We work with a network of highly skilled installers and are always happy to recommend.

Maintaining vinyl flooring

Vinyl flooring is low-maintenance, but it does need some regular care and attention to maintain it in tiptop condition:

Regular cleaning – sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop with a mild detergent for deeper cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. See our blog articles about maintaining vinyl floors for much more help and advice.

Preventive measures – use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor. Consider placing mats at entryways to reduce dirt accumulation in high traffic areas.

Moisture management – while vinyl is water-resistant, prolonged exposure to standing water can cause damage, so always pop up spills promptly and ensure proper ventilation in moisture-prone areas.

Vinyl flooring for the whole house from Floors for Paws

Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance their spaces with style, durability, and affordability. Its variety of types and designs makes it suitable for every room in the house, from the living room to the bathroom. With easy installation and low maintenance, vinyl flooring can transform your home while offering long-lasting performance. Whether you’re renovating or building new, consider vinyl flooring as a practical and stylish solution for your entire home. At Floors for Paws, we offer two ranges of vinyl flooring, which are perfect for any domestic environment with dogs of any age.

Pawsafe Domestic – this is the ideal flooring solution for any room in the home. Available as planks or tiles, the range is offered in a choice of wood- or stone-effect finishes in a variety of colours. The textured surface layer makes this the best non-slip flooring for dogs and its scratch resistance makes it appealing to owners.

Luxury vinyl range – As seen in House & Garden magazine choose between wood-effect vinyl planks or stone-effect tiles for areas such as entrance halls and lobbies, or dining rooms. With so much choice, why not select up to three free samples to help you decide?

To find out more, email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or give the team a call for an informal chat on 01522 300218.

Vinyl tiles vs. sheet vinyl: a comprehensive comparison

Our latest guide to sheet vinyl flooring and luxury vinyl tiles and how they compare to each other.

When it comes to choosing flooring options, vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl are two popular contenders that often spark debate among homeowners and designers alike. Both materials offer a range of benefits, but they cater to different needs and aesthetics. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl to help you make an informed decision for your space.

Vinyl Flooring Options

Vinyl flooring is available to buy on the roll (vinyl sheet flooring) and as luxury vinyl tiles and planks.

Luxury vinyl tiles and vinyl planks – these are individual squares or planks of vinyl flooring. They are available in various sizes and designs, to produce a realistic wood- or stone-effect finish.

Vinyl roll flooring, on the other hand, is a large roll of vinyl that can cover an entire room without seams, providing a continuous surface. It’s available in numerous colours, and a choice of patterns, making it a versatile option.

Installation of LVT

Installation of vinyl tiles can be straightforward, especially with self-adhesive options. While homeowners with some DIY skills could lay them down themselves, it is vital to ensure a perfectly even surface with a perfectly prepared subfloor (see Preparing your sub-floor for luxury vinyl plank flooring), as imperfections can lead to a less attractive final product. At Floors for Paws, we have a network of reputable installation engineers that we always recommend, to give you the optimum finish for your new floor.

Installation of sheet vinyl flooring

Sheet vinyl benefits from professional installation, as the large roll must be cut to size, which can be challenging without professional tools. Moreover, it’s crucial to get the measurements just right to avoid seams that could lead to water infiltration. The cost of a professional installer can be offset by the benefits of a smoother and more visually appealing finish.

Aesthetics

Vinyl tiles – vinyl tiles offer significant versatility in design. With a wide array of patterns, colours, they mimic natural materials like hardwood, stone, or ceramic. This allows homeowners to create unique looks tailored to their personal style. Moreover, the ability to mix and match tiles can lead to creative designs, like borders or patterns such as herringbone.

Sheet Vinyl – while sheet vinyl also comes in various styles, it does not offer the same level of customisation as tiles. However, it does excel in creating seamless designs that can give the appearance of a larger, uninterrupted floor. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller spaces where visual continuity helps make the area feel larger, or in areas that will be subject to frequent and vigorous cleaning.

Durability and maintenance

Vinyl tiles – vinyl tiles are durable and resistant to scratches and stains. However, the seams between tiles can trap dirt and moisture if not properly maintained. Regular sweeping and mopping with a damp cloth are usually sufficient to keep them clean. They also have the added advantage of being easily replaceable; if a tile becomes damaged, it can be removed and replaced without affecting the surrounding floor. For detailed advice om maintaining your LVT flooring, see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners.

Sheet vinyl – vinyl roll flooring is known for its exceptional durability and water resistance. Its seamless nature means fewer places for dirt and moisture to accumulate, making it easier to maintain in high-traffic areas or spaces prone to spills, like kitchens and bathrooms. However, once damaged, repairing sheet vinyl can be more complicated, often requiring a whole section to be replaced.

Cost

When it comes to cost, vinyl tiles are often more expensive per square metre than sheet vinyl. However, the overall expense may balance out if you consider installation costs and the potential for DIY work. Sheet vinyl, while generally cheaper upfront, may incur additional costs for professional installation due to its complexity.

LVT and vinyl roll flooring from Floors for Paws

At Floors for Paws, our Pawsafe Domestic range and our Luxury Vinyl range is made up of both tiles and planks. The Pawsafe Domestic range has been endorsed by Canine Arthritis Management and is recommended for pets for its non-slip qualities and comfort layer. Pet owners also love it for its good looks, low maintenance and scratch resistance. Our Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied on the roll (like carpet) and is recommended for high traffic areas such as veterinary clinics and surgeries, canine cafes and dog daycare centres. To find out more, read our guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring.

Both vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl present their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the choice largely depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. To discuss which option suits your current needs, call the team on 01522 300218 or send us an email to info@floorsforpaws.com

LVT Vs ceramic tiles – the pros and cons

mix and match

A guide to the pros and cons of LVT vs ceramic tiles for the pet owner.

As technology has advanced, so too has the quality of vinyl flooring and today it is almost indistinguishable from ceramic tiles in looks and quality. So, what are the pros and cons of each for the discerning pet owner?

Aesthetics and choice; LVT vs Ceramic tiles

LVT flooring is offered in a wide variety of styles and colours and is produced in such a way that the photographic top layer mimics the appearance of the finest ceramic tile. At Floors for Paws, our luxury vinyl tile range is offered in a choice of 6 stone effect finishes, as well as 6 wood effect finishes.

Durability

Both LVT flooring and ceramic tiles are hardwearing and durable. Where LVT has the edge, however, is in its resistance to cracking and damage. Ceramic tiles crack easily as they are inflexible and have no ‘give’ and once damaged, are difficult and expensive to repair or replace.  The flexibility of luxury vinyl allows it to absorb impacts from heavy objects without being damaged.

Cost

Luxury vinyl tile is much more cost effective than ceramic which is often as expensive as quality solid hardwood floors.

Care and maintenance

Both LVT and ceramic tiles are easy to keep clean and require little more than regular sweeping and the occasional deeper clean (see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners). However, ceramic tiles can stain and grout in joints and seams may need replacing over time.

The best flooring for dogs

For homes with no pets, the choice between ceramic and luxury vinyl tiling comes down to personal preference. Where you have pets, however, there is no contest when assessing LVT vs ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are cold and extremely uncomfortable for pets to lie on, particularly senior dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis. They are also extremely slippery underfoot and paw. This presents a high risk of slipping which is dangerous for dogs – puppies finding their feet need stability as they learn to navigate the world to enable their gait to develop ‘normally’, and older dogs need to minimise the threat of dislocation and broken bones.  Breeds that are prone to hip dysplasia need to feel steady when walking too, to prevent further joint deterioration.

LVT flooring from Floor for Paws

Our Pawsafe Domestic range is the best non slip flooring for dogs, offering the highest slip rating of any vinyl flooring currently available, and with a textured surface that helps dogs of all ages to maintain their balance. A comfort cushion layer makes it comfortable to lie on (and walk on for humans too!) and the flooring comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

To find out more about our Pawsafe Domestic range, drop the team an email to info@floorsforpaws.com or call us on 01522 300218 today.

Vinyl floor aftercare

Our complete guide to vinyl floor aftercare will keep your floors in tip top condition.

At Floors for Paws, our best flooring for dogs is supplied as pet-friendly vinyl plank flooring, LVT, or commercial vinyl sheet flooring. While all our flooring options are low maintenance, they will need the correct aftercare to ensure you get the maximum lifespan from them and they remain in the best possible condition. Here’s how!

What to do after installing vinyl flooring

  • After installation, glue down flooring needs time for the glue to set before furniture is moved back on it. This process is called ‘curing’ and if not given sufficient time, planks and tiles could shift.
  • While the adhesive sets, avoid washing the vinyl (for at least 5 days).
  • Do not replace furniture in the area for 48-72 hours and if possible, avoid walking on it too. If you do need to walk in the room, avoid the seams. If heavy objects are placed on the vinyl before the adhesive has cured, it will leave permanent compression marks.
  • Open windows to ventilate the room and help any odours to dissipate.

Protecting vinyl floors from damage from furniture

  • Heavy pieces of furniture can cause dents and scratches to vinyl flooring so use felt or cotton furniture pads for legs (rubber could mark or stain the vinyl). These are attached to the bottom of the legs and will spread the weight, preventing dents, scratches and scuffs.
  • If you rearrange your furniture on a regular basis, use furniture glides, small discs that attach to the bottom of furniture legs. They protect vinyl floors in the same way as furniture pads but also make it easier to move the furniture.

How to care for vinyl flooring

All vinyl flooring benefits from ongoing maintenance. This should take the form of regular sweeping or vacuuming, and mopping for heavier dirt. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar as this could scratch the vinyl. Establishing a consistent care and cleaning pattern, will extend the life of your vinyl, as dirt or spillages that are left to sit on the vinyl could penetrate the joins and degrade the vinyl.

What to avoid when caring for vinyl floors

  • Avoid abrasive cleaning products that could scratch the floor’s surface.
  • Do not use a steam cleaner as this will loosen the adhesive over time. We recommend the Karcher hard floor cleaner.
  • High heels can leave indentations in the vinyl, so always wear indoor shoes with smooth soles on your floors.
  • Keep floors dry at all times – when mopping, dry thoroughly when you have finished, as excessive water could have an adverse effect on the adhesive if left unchecked.

How to clean vinyl floors

Even with regular maintenance, your vinyl flooring will need the occasional deep clean. Seamless floors like our Pawsafe Commercial range which is supplied on the roll, is tough enough to cope with regular deep cleaning whereas the Pawsafe Domestic range and our luxury vinyl range should only be deep cleaned when stubborn marks appear that cannot be removed with routine mopping. For more detailed help and advice for vinyl floor cleaning, our vinyl floor cleaning blog has lots of articles to help.

If you have any questions about cleaning our pet friendly vinyl floors, contact us by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or give the team a call on 01522 300218.

The benefits of LVT flooring

LVP flooring dogs

A guide to luxury vinyl flooring and its benefits to pets and their owners.

What are luxury vinyl tiles?

Luxury vinyl tiles or LVT, is a manmade flooring option. It is available in a plank format like laminate flooring and traditional square tiles. Although a manmade synthetic product, LVT can have the realistic appearance of stone, ceramic or wood, thanks to production techniques.

LVT Vs. laminate

LVT is a more flexible product and has a more forgiving surface compared to the plastic-coated, pressed wood pulp construction of laminate. Being more durable than laminate means that vinyl flooring often has a much longer guarantee.

Glue down or vinyl click?

LVT is available in two varieties, depending on how it will be installed – glue down or click. Like laminate boards, vinyl click flooring panels lock into each other and because it is not permanently fixed to the floor, is also known as floating vinyl flooring. Contrary to popular opinion, click flooring does need sub-floor preparation and an underlay, unlike glue down vinyl that requires only subfloor prep. LVT Vs. click flooring – Which is best for dog owners? has more on this.

Why owners love LVT from Floors for Paws

  • Maintaining LVT – LVT flooring is low maintenance and needs little beyond sweeping or vacuuming regularly, and mopping with plain water. Of course, as with any flooring, spills should be dealt with immediately. For the dos and don’ts of caring for LVT flooring, see How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners
  • Durability – luxury vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws has a multi-layer construction, with layers heat fused together to give extra strength and durability.
  • Aesthetics – available in real wood- or stone-effect designs, LVT offers high end looks for any style of interior. Our luxury vinyl planks can be used to create traditional designs such as herringbone, while our stone-effect tiles give the look of a ceramic floor.
  • Kind to pets – a textured, anti-slip surface layer helps to stabilise dogs that are unsteady on the legs and the high density fleece backing gives comfort to ageing joints.

Why pets love LVT from Floors for Paws

Comfort – hard surfaces such a real wood or laminate floors, are uncomfortable to lie down on for prolonged lengths of time so LVT offers the older dog a more comfortable option. The soft comfort layer provides cushioning not found in other hard floors.

Textured surface for grip and stability – for arthritic senior dogs or dogs with hip dysplasia, it is essential to reduce the risk of injury through slipping. And young and old dogs alike will love the feeling of security they get from a stable, non-slip surface.

Warm – the backing prevents the LVT from feeling cold to the touch, like ceramic or porcelain tiles, making it nicer to lie on for any length of time. Dogs seem to love lying on it!

Pet-friendly LVT from Floors for Paws

Our luxury vinyl flooring range offers customers a choice of 6 stone-effect finishes and 6 wood-effect finishes to appeal to all tastes. To help you narrow your choice, order up to three free samples today.

https://www.floorsforpaws.com/luxury-vinyl-range/

Alternatively our friendly sales team is available via email at info@floorsforpaws.com or phone on 01522 300218

The best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws

Best flooring for dogs

A guide to the best flooring for dogs from Floors for Paws.

As a nation of dog lovers, we all want the best flooring for dogs but what exactly is that and how do our flooring ranges tick all those boxes? Read on to find out!

Best flooring for dogs

When our pets are either very young, or starting to age, it’s important that they are kept comfortable and safe, to support their development and to avoid any unnecessary discomfort.

Features of pet-friendly flooring

  • Dogs of all ages, but particularly those at either end of their lives, need non-slip flooring. For the young, unsteady pup, a floor that will provide stability under-paw and not increase their chance of slipping will help them to develop without fear of injury. Older dogs who may be suffering from canine arthritis need the same stability to make them feel safe and secure – injuries to older dogs from slipping can be life-threatening, painful and for owners, expensive!
  • When we think of how long our dogs spend lying down and sleeping, it’s easy to see why pet-friendly flooring needs to be comfortable and warm. Cold hard surfaces will add to any arthritic pain your dog may be experiencing and we know ourselves, that sleeping on a hard surface does not contribute to a good night’s sleep!

So, if the above is what our dogs need, what do we as owners need from our floors for them to work for us too? It goes without saying that we want the best for our dogs, but we also need the best flooring for us, and that means our floors have to be pet-friendly and pet-proof!

Features of Floors for paws best flooring for dogs 

  • Durability – pet-proof flooring will withstand the wear and tear from dogs (thinks claws and teeth!).
  • Waterproof – flooring that will not perish under the inevitable ‘accidents’ from puppies and incontinent senior dogs is a must.

Flooring from Floors for Paws that ticks all the boxes

At Floors for Paws, we offer home owners a range of vinyl flooring that is not only pet-friendly but is also pet-proof. Add in to the mix that our flooring is aesthetically pleasing and low maintenance and you’ll see why our flooring is the best flooring for dogs.

Pawsafe Domestic range

With the highest slip rating of any luxury vinyl flooring in today’s market, the Pawsafe Domestic range has a textured surface layer to safeguard against slips and falls, plus a generous comfort layer. When professionally installed, the Pawsafe Domestic range comes with a 30-year domestic guarantee and is easy to keep clean. Waterproof and stylish, the range is available in a choice of finishes to please even the most discerning homeowner – from wood-effect planks perfect for creating a herringbone pattern to stone-effect tiles.

Benefits of Pawsafe Domestic: Best flooring for dogs:

  • Safe
  • Comfortable
  • Hypo-allergenic

Benefits of Pawsafe Domestic range for dog owners:

  • Waterproof
  • Durable
  • Zero maintenance
  • 30 year domestic guarantee
  • Stain resistant
  • Dog claw resistant

The range is fully endorsed by CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) to give you the confidence that you will get the perfect flooring for you that is also the best flooring for your dogs.

To find out more email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or by phone on 01522 300218. And if you’d like to try before you buy, you can also order up to three free samples.

How to fit LVT herringbone flooring

herringbone flooring

 

For dog owners who want the luxury of a high end, solid wood parquet block floor but who worry about the safety of their pets, look no further. At Floors for Paws, we have the perfect solution – LVT herringbone flooring.

What is herringbone flooring?

Often used when talking about wooden parquet flooring, the term herringbone is in fact one of the most popular patterns that can be created with any type of block flooring. The pattern is created from rectangular wooden blocks which are each arranged at a 45 degree angle from the next to make a geometric, V shape.

Can LVT be installed in a herringbone pattern?

LVT planks are ideal for creating a herringbone pattern and will give a durable, long lasting and beautiful floor.

How to fit LVT herringbone flooring

  • LVT needs to acclimatise upon arrival at your home, to make up for the change in temperature between your home and where it was stored prior to delivery. Leaving the LVT for 24 hours reduces the risk of it warping or cracking after installation.
  • While luxury vinyl tiles do not need a traditional underlay, it is vital to prepare the surface your tiles will be installed on. This surface is known as the subfloor and should be concrete, floorboards or ceramic tiles. If your subfloor has carpet, vinyl or lino on it, this should be removed
  • Prepare your subfloor to ensure it is perfectly smooth and even. Remove all nails and tacks etc. and thoroughly vacuum, before repairing any cracks or holes.
  • For concrete floors a thin (3-4mm) layer of smoothing compound can be applied to the surface to ensure the subfloor is completely smooth. Wooden subfloors should have a flooring grade plywood affixed every 120-150mm, with the joins filled so they won’t ‘ghost’ over time.
  • Cut LVT planks with a sharp blade and glue them down, butting each one up tightly to the next.
  • A herringbone pattern should be started in the centre of the room and worked outwards from this central point. Drawing a guide line will help and one corner of the first tile should be lined up to this at a 45 degree angle. Subsequent tiles should be laid at 90 degrees to the previous one. Once the first pattern row has been established and glued down, subsequent rows are added on alternate sides. The overall pattern is created as you add subsequent rows of planks.

Please note: Installation of glue-down LVT planks requires much more skill than click-together planks and is not for the faint-hearted. We do not recommend that a novice DIY-er tackles this kind of installation and would always recommend an approved installation specialist.

LVT herringbone flooring from Floor for Paws

For pet owners wanting a stylish and traditional aesthetic in their home but who worry about the risks from hard, wooden floors to their dogs, the PawSafe domestic range from Floor for Paws is the best flooring for dogs. It is available in a choice of 12 wood-effect patterns perfect for creating a chevron design, with 6 of those available in a smaller plank size ideal for the Herringbone design. All feature a textured, non-slip surface layer to help unstable dogs of any age. The range also offers a comfort layer and fleece backing. All Floors for Paws ranges come with a 30-year domestic guarantee.

To see for yourself, why not order up to three free samples or contact us by email at info@floorsforpaws.com or telephone on 01522 300218 for more information?