When it comes to choosing a floor, the options can feel endless and overwhelming. One of the biggest decisions homeowners face today is whether to go for engineered oak flooring or Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT).
At first glance, LVT might seem like a practical option. It’s durable and claims to mimic the look of wood. The larger LVT companies, Karndean and Amtico, are one of the very few flooring companies to actually have brand recognition, and they certainly spend a lot of money on marketing, and also have extensive retailer networks who push the product.
But is it LVT right for your home?
Now, we’re going to suggest something really shocking. Brace yourself. A wood floor company is going to explain to you why you should buy a wood floor. Yes, we know, we are a little biased, but this was actually one of the reasons we set-up Kite all those years ago. Because we think LVT is a bit of a racket. We know plenty of fitters and shops have built their businesses off it (so the sales will continue). But good quality wood floors can be just as hard wearing. And if budget is an issue, Premium Laminate is a better option, at half the price.
So here’s why engineered oak flooring remains the smart choice –
1. Real Wood Texture You Can See and Feel
LVT may copy the look of wood, but it can’t replicate the feel. Engineered oak flooring has a genuine wood top layer, giving it warmth, grain, and character.
Every plank is unique, something no printed vinyl pattern can achieve. Step on it, and you’ll instantly notice real timber underfoot.
2. The Most Common Problems with LVT Flooring
LVT is often marketed as “fit-and-forget,” but it needs to be fitted properly, and that’s not always the case. If you do go down this route, make sure your fitter knows what they’re doing. The most common problems include:
- Lifting edges: Caused by uneven subfloors or wear.
- Scratches and dents: LVT is a soft plastic that marks easily under furniture or grit.
- Discolouration: Sunlight or heat can cause fading or yellowing.
- Artificial sound and feel: Even premium LVT can sound hollow and feel synthetic.
4. High-Traffic & Kitchen Floors – The Real Story
Many people choose LVT for kitchens and busy areas because it’s waterproof and easy to clean. But a well-made engineered oak floor, finished with good quality oils or durable lacquers, delivers the same practicality, but with far better feel.
The perception that wood floors don’t work in kitchens, is normally down to an experience with a poor quality floor that has been badly oiled. These tend to be sold in fake sales, online. Remember, not all floors are equal.
Oiled wood floors do require a little love (so the occasional mop, and some maintenance oil), but as with anything in life, a little bit of love, gives a big return; your beautiful, natural floor.
5. Pricing – Initial Cost vs Long-Term Value
At first glance, LVT often costs less upfront, but if it’s a glued down product, such as Karndean or Amtico, you will need to budget for subfloor costs. The click-system options, which are floated, are more expensive, but need a perfect subfloor for a successful installation (we’ve seen plenty of creaking floors here).
A good-quality engineered oak floor usually starts from around £65 per m², rising with the width, grade, and finish quality. This could be our Hampton Natural Product – HAMPTON NATURAL
However, the difference lies in lifespan and value:
- LVT typically lasts 10–20 years before needing full replacement, as they fade.
- Engineered oak can last 40 years or more, as it can be sanded and refinished several times.
- Real wood floors also add resale value and a sense of craftsmanship that vinyl simply can’t match.
In other words, while LVT may seem cheaper per square metre, engineered oak delivers better value per decade.
6. A Natural, Sustainable Choice
LVT is a plastic product often made from PVC and synthetic compounds and I think most of us can agree that there should be less plastic in the world!
Whilst some LVT producers have invested in environmental credentials, ultimately, they are competing with a natural product.
You also need to think about end of life use. Whilst some vinyl manufacturers claim their product can be recycled, our trips to Islington skip would suggest that it rarely is. Whilst the wood floors are placed in the Recycling section, Vinyl floors, are firmly placed in the “Non-Recycling” section of the skip, and that will keep filling up, whilst plastic floors are continued to be sold. Vinyl floors are not even listed as a category on the North London Waste Authority.
Our wood floors are also low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) so contribute to a healthier indoor environment. So, choosing real wood is better for your home and for the planet. If you want to dive deeper into VOCs and flooring, you can read this blog here – VOC and Wood Flooring
7. Timeless Beauty That Lasts
Trends change, but oak never does. Engineered oak floors complement every design, from Scandi minimalism to traditional luxury, and develop richer tones with time. Vinyl just fades.
The Verdict
If you want the look, feel, and longevity of a real wood floor, without the movement issues of solid timber, engineered oak delivers on every level. It’s authentic, durable, repairable, and designed to age gracefully. Just make sure it has been oiled with good quality oils or lacquers.
LVT imitates wood. Engineered oak is wood. And that’s a difference you’ll see, and feel, every single day.
If budget is a challenge, don’t buy a cheap wood flooring. Go with one of our Premium Laminate floors instead. They’re half the price of our wood floors, have a realistic matt finish, and are almost indestructible – PREMIUM LAMINATE
Explore Our Engineered Oak Collection
Discover natural flooring that’s built to last – crafted for beauty, performance, and peace of mind.
And here’s some reviews of Karndean – Karndean Reviews
