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FAQs

Carpets & Flooring FAQs

There will be times where you need advice when choosing your new carpet & flooring. We’re here to answer any questions you might have, below are some of the more common questions we get asked by our customers.

Is Click LVT Better Than Glue-Down LVT?

Neither system is automatically better. Click LVT can provide a straightforward floating installation, while glue-down LVT offers additional stability and can work particularly well in high-traffic areas, precise patterned layouts or where a lower floor height is important. The condition of the subfloor and the room itself should influence the decision.

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Is LVT Suitable For High Traffic Areas?

Yes, provided the right product is selected. LVT is available in various wear-layer thicknesses, with extremely durable products designed for busy homes and certain commercial environments. We can help match the flooring specification to the expected level of traffic.

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Is LVT Better Than Real Wood Or Laminate Flooring?

It depends on the room and what matters most to you. LVT offers realistic wood and stone designs, easy maintenance and good resistance to everyday wear, while real wood offers genuine timber character and laminate flooring can provide another cost-effective wood-look option. LVT is also generally less expensive upfront than genuine hardwood and tends to feel warmer and softer underfoot than ceramic or natural stone. Our team can help you compare different flooring solutions rather than assuming a single material is right for every room.

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What Does The Protective Wear Layer On LVT Do?

The protective wear layer sits above the decorative design and helps LVT flooring resist everyday wear, marks and scratches. Different vinyl tiles are designed for different levels of use, so the right specification matters just as much as the colour, pattern or interior style.

Bedrooms and quieter living areas may place relatively light demands on a floor, while kitchens, hallways, and other high-traffic areas require greater durability. Commercial environments may require highly durable flooring specifically rated for heavier use. A suitable wear layer can provide stronger scratch resistance and long-lasting performance, but the correct specification should always be based on the individual product and how the room will be used.

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How Do You Keep Real Wood Flooring Looking Its Best?

Real wood flooring is made to be lived on, but proper maintenance helps preserve its appearance and longevity. Regular sweeping or vacuuming removes grit that can mark the surface, while spills should be dealt with promptly and excess water avoided. Always use cleaning products suited to the particular wood and finish.

Lacquered finishes are particularly straightforward to wipe clean, while oiled flooring may require different care to maintain the timber’s appearance and protection. Hardwood can still develop scratches or dents over time, especially in high-traffic areas, so preventive care is just as important as cleaning.

Maintenance also depends on whether your floor is oiled or lacquered. Over time, many real wood floors can be refreshed, while solid wood flooring can often be sanded and refinished several times. Some engineered wood floors can also be refinished, depending on the thickness of the real wood wear layer and the manufacturer’s specifications.

For more advice on day-to-day cleaning and long-term care, see our real wood flooring care guide.

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What Is The Best Real Wood Flooring For High Traffic Areas?

The right option depends on the room, timber, construction and finish. Harder species such as Hard Maple and Hickory can offer strong resistance to denting, while oak also remains a popular choice for its balance of durability, appearance and warmth. The Janka Hardness Scale can help compare the relative hardness of different timber species, but the finish, installation and maintenance of the floor matter too.

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Does Real Wood Flooring Trap Dust?

Hardwood has a smooth surface rather than fibres that can hold dust in the same way carpet can, making it relatively simple to vacuum or wipe clean. Regular cleaning is still important, particularly because grit left on the surface can contribute to small scratches over time.

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How do I choose the right carpet for my home?

It depends on the room, foot traffic, and desired comfort. Bedrooms often suit softer, thicker carpets, while hallways and stairs benefit from more durable options.

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What carpet materials are best?

Popular choices include wool for luxury and durability, and synthetic fibres like polypropylene for stain resistance and affordability.

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Are carpets suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, but it’s best to choose hard-wearing, low-pile carpets designed specifically for busy areas such as hallways and stairs.

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How often should I replace my carpet?

On average, carpets last 5–15 years depending on quality, maintenance, and level of use.

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Do you offer carpet fitting services?

Yes, professional fitting ensures a perfect finish, better longevity, and improved appearance. We offer expert fitting across all of the South East, see all the Areas We Cover…

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How do I maintain and clean my carpet?

Regular vacuuming and prompt stain treatment are key. Occasional professional cleaning can also help extend its life.

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What is the difference between solid and engineered wood flooring?

Solid wood is made from a single piece of timber, while engineered wood has a real wood top layer over a stable core, making it more resistant to changes in temperature and moisture.

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Can real wood flooring be used with underfloor heating?

Engineered wood is generally suitable for underfloor heating, while solid wood may not be recommended in all cases.

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How long does real wood flooring last?

With proper care, real wood flooring can last decades and can often be sanded and refinished multiple times.

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Does real wood flooring scratch easily?

Wood can scratch, but regular maintenance, protective pads on furniture, and refinishing can keep it looking great.

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Is real wood flooring suitable for kitchens?

Engineered wood can be used in kitchens if properly sealed, but care should be taken to avoid excess moisture.

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How do I maintain wood flooring?

Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping with wood-safe products will help maintain its finish.

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What is laminate flooring made of?

Laminate is made of a high-density fibreboard core with a photographic layer and protective top coating that mimics wood or stone.

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How durable is laminate flooring?

Laminate is highly durable and resistant to scratches, making it ideal for busy households.

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Can laminate be installed in kitchens?

Yes, but spillages should be cleaned quickly to prevent moisture damage.

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Does laminate flooring look like real wood?

Yes, modern laminate uses advanced imaging technology to closely replicate the appearance of real wood.

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How is laminate flooring installed?

It typically uses a click-lock system, allowing the planks to fit together without glue or nails.

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Is laminate flooring waterproof?

Most standard laminate is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. Some modern ranges offer improved moisture protection.

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What are LVT floors?

Luxury Vinyl Tiles are high-quality vinyl flooring designed to replicate natural materials like wood or stone.

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Is LVT waterproof?

Yes, LVT is fully waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms.

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How durable is LVT flooring?

LVT is extremely durable, resistant to scratches, dents, and everyday wear.

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Can LVT be used with underfloor heating?

Yes, most LVT products are compatible with underfloor heating systems.

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How is LVT installed?

It can be glued down or installed as a click system depending on the product type.

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Does LVT feel like real wood or stone?

LVT has a realistic textured finish that closely mimics natural materials while being softer underfoot.

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What is vinyl flooring?

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring option made from multiple layers designed for durability, comfort, and water resistance.

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Is vinyl flooring comfortable to walk on?

Yes, vinyl is softer and warmer underfoot compared to harder flooring types like stone or tile.

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Can vinyl flooring be installed in any room?

Yes, it is suitable for most rooms in the home, especially moisture-prone areas.

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How long does vinyl flooring last?

With proper care, vinyl flooring can last 10–20 years depending on quality and usage.

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Is vinyl flooring waterproof?

Yes, vinyl is fully waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility areas.

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How do you clean vinyl flooring?

Regular sweeping and mopping with a mild cleaner is usually enough to keep it looking good.

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  • Bespoke Floors Beckenham
  • 407 Croydon Road
  • Beckenham
  • London
  • BR3 3PR

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm (closed between 1-2pm).
Saturday 9am until 4pm – Open all day.

  • Bespoke Floors Oxted
  • 101-103 Station Road East
  • Oxted
  • Surrey
  • RH8 0AX

Opening Hours:

Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm (closed between 1-2pm).
Saturday 9am until 4pm – Open all day.