Carpet vs LVT: which is right for your home?
The short answer
Carpet for bedrooms, lounges and stairs where comfort matters. LVT for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and open-plan living where cleaning and water resistance matter. Most Kent homes we fit are a mix of both.
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Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Carpet | LVT |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort underfoot | Softest option - winner for bedrooms and lounges | Firm but warm with UFH - needs a rug for lounges |
| Lifespan | 8-12 years in a family lounge before matting | 20+ years with a proper wear layer |
| Water & spills | Absorbs - needs quick cleaning | Wipes clean - safe for kitchens/bathrooms |
| Sound | Absorbs footsteps - quiet for flats | Reflects footsteps - needs acoustic underlay in flats |
| Pet-friendly | Prone to claw pulls and odour retention | Excellent - claws don't damage, spills wipe up |
| Cost (supplied & fitted) | From £18/m² | From £45/m² |
| Install time (10m² room) | 2-3 hours | 1-1.5 days including screed prep |
Carpet fitting
- Wool, polypropylene and stain-resistant ranges
- Underlay & grippers supplied
- Old flooring uplifted & disposed
Room-by-room recommendation
Warmth, softness, sound absorption
Depends on how the room's used
Muddy shoes, buggies, dogs, high traffic
Spills, water, hot pans dropped
Fully waterproof required
Softer, safer, quieter
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Frequently asked
Carpet is warmer barefoot in a room without underfloor heating. LVT is warmer with UFH installed underneath - the heat conducts through the plank directly.
A good LVT lasts 20+ years; a good carpet 8-12 years in a family lounge before it flattens. LVT wins on lifespan; carpet wins on comfort and price per year.
Yes and it's increasingly common in Kent. Add a fluffy rug for comfort. The main trade-off is sound - LVT reflects footsteps, carpet absorbs them.
LVT wins on cleaning - no absorbed odours, wipeable spills, no claw damage. Carpet needs regular vacuuming and is prone to pull-threads from claws.
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