The UK is not known for its hot summers or snowy winters, but extreme weather is becoming more and more common, thanks to climate change.
In fact, the mercury hit an unexpected 40.3C three years ago and has even dipped as low as -27.2C in the past, which means Brits need to ensure their houses are equipped to be able to handle all conditions.
This includes the flooring, which is why luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) are a great choice.
LVT: Keep Warm During The Winter
LVTs have been popular in kitchens, bathrooms and hallways for a while, but homeowners are increasingly choosing them for their living rooms and bedrooms too, as they can offer a cosy, warm feel while looking stylish.
This is because they retain their warmth, unlike stone or ceramic tiles. Therefore, they are far more comfortable under bare feet when the weather becomes cooler.
Due to having many layers, they are a good insulator, as the warm air is trapped between each layer.
If you do want to add some extra heat to your room, you could always put a stylish rug on the floor. Those made from natural fibres retain heat well, and make the room feel warmer.
Another reason why LVTs are a good choice if you want to have a warm floor is they are compatible with underfloor heating systems. This means, depending on the size of the room, homeowners can heat the space entirely through the floor.
Many people like this option, as it not only keeps their feet warm but it eliminates the need for a radiator, leaving more wall space for furniture.
Underfloor heating is also popular as it distributes heat evenly throughout the room. Unlike a radiator, which can make the air around it warm and the areas further away much cooler, the temperature is even throughout the whole space.
LVT: Keep Cool During The Summer
The same reason why LVTs are good for the winter is also why it is a sensible choice for warmer months as well, because it is an effective insulator.
This means it traps air into its layers, making it cool to walk on if the ambient temperature is also kept low.
Unlike carpets, which keep the heat trapped in, it is more responsive to the surrounding temperature and is not made from materials that retain lots of heat, such as woollen fibres.
Therefore, LVTs should be cool to step on, and as feet help to regulate the body temperature, this makes the person far cooler and more comfortable.
As well as making people feel less hot and the room less stuffy, LVT flooring is great for summer months, as it is resistant to moisture. Humidity, caused by hot weather; children running from the paddling pool; big jugs of water; and melting ice lollies all mean there is a greater chance of the floor becoming wet during summer.
However, LVT does not warp when exposed to moisture, so you don’t have to worry as much about spillages or humidity in the house.
Along the same line, it can also be easily cleaned, so any muddy footprints from wet feet or ice-cream spills will be simple to wipe away, as opposed to carpets.
Therefore, whether we experience a freezing cold winter or a scorching hot summer, changing the floor to LVTs could be the best decision you make this year, if you want your home to feel comfortable whatever the weather.
