Considering new flooring but unsure where to start?

Vinyl flooring might be just what you need! It’s known for being a versatile and resilient type of flooring that you can get in a variety of styles — from realistic wood and stone effects to sleek modern designs. This has made it a popular choice for homeowners in the UK.

This guide covers everything you need to know: material and labour costs, room-size pricing, essential add-ons, and common extras. You’ll also find tips on hiring an installer and easy maintenance advice.

Dive in to discover why vinyl flooring could be the perfect blend of value and style for your home.

How Much Is Vinyl Flooring?

When budgeting for vinyl flooring, it’s helpful to have an estimate of the all-in costs, including materials, labour, and any necessary underlay or subfloor preparation.

The following table provides a cost estimate per square metre for vinyl flooring installation based on mid-range materials. This includes labour, underlay (if usually required), and basic subfloor preparation — offering a practical range to help you budget for this project.

Vinyl Flooring Type	Total Cost (Midrange Materials)
Vinyl Sheets	£26 – £36 per m²
Vinyl Tiles	£34 – £51 per m²
Vinyl Planks	£43 – £56 per m²
Click Vinyl	£54 – £74 per m²

Vinyl sheets are the most cost-effective option, with installation costs generally falling between £26 and £36 per m² for midrange materials. This makes it a good choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet durable flooring solution, particularly in larger spaces (where the costs can add up quite quickly).

The most popular choice among homeowners is click vinyl, which is easy to install, durable, and has a high-quality finish. However, it comes in at a higher point — costing around £54 to £74 per m² when using midrange materials.

How Much Does a Typical Vinyl Installation Cost?

In this section, we’ve taken a look at the estimated costs for vinyl flooring installation based on the type of vinyl and common room sizes. These estimates use mid-range material prices and include labour, basic subfloor preparation, and underlay where necessary.

Vinyl Flooring Type	Small Room (8m²)	Medium Room (15m²)	Large Room (25m²)
Vinyl Sheets	£248	£458	£763
Vinyl Tiles	£340	£638	£1,063
Vinyl Planks	£396	£743	£1,238
Click Vinyl	£512	£938	£1,563

As this table shows, the average cost of installing vinyl flooring in a small room (e.g., bathroom or small office) is between £248 and £512. For a medium room (e.g., bedroom or kitchen), it typically costs between £458 and £938. And the cost of installing vinyl flooring in a large area (e.g., living room or open-plan space) is between £763 and £1,563.

Vinyl Flooring Prices

Vinyl flooring comes in various types to suit different styles, budgets, and installation preferences.

In the table below, we’ve put together a breakdown of the average costs for common vinyl flooring types in the UK.

Vinyl Flooring Type	Description	Average Cost
Vinyl Sheets	Large rolls, ideal for seamless coverage in expansive areas.	£8 – £20 per m²
Vinyl Tiles	Individual tiles, often resembling stone or ceramic.	£12 – £35 per m²
Vinyl Planks	Plank-shaped pieces, designed to mimic hardwood flooring.	£15 – £40 per m²
Click Vinyl	Features a click-lock system, simplifying installation without adhesives.	£20 – £45 per m²

The average cost of vinyl flooring materials in the UK typically ranges from £8 to £45 per m², depending on the type chosen.

Among standard options, click vinyl is particularly popular for its ease of installation and durable finish, generally costing between £20 and £45 per m².

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are a premium option that you could also consider. This type of vinyl flooring is well known for its realistic textures and better durability.

But LVT flooring comes in at a higher price per square metre, usually between £25 and £60 per m². It’s a valuable choice for homeowners wanting a luxurious look without the maintenance demands of natural materials.

Cost of Vinyl Flooring Sheets

Price Range	Cost
Budget	£8 – £12 per m²
Midrange	£13 – £16 per m²
Premium	£17 – £20 per m²

Vinyl sheets are the most budget-friendly type of vinyl flooring you get. On average, this type of vinyl flooring costs between £8 to £20 per m². Its lower price point makes it ideal if you’re looking for a durable, cost-effective type of flooring — especially in larger spaces.

Vinyl sheets come in large rolls that can be laid with minimal joints, offering a clean, uniform look across the floor. They are also relatively easy to install in open areas, making them a practical choice for those on a tight budget.

Cost of Vinyl Flooring Tiles

Price Range	Cost
Budget	£12 –£18 per m²
Midrange	£19 – £28 per m²
Premium	£29 – £35 per m²

Vinyl tiles are a versatile and stylish flooring option, often crafted to replicate the look of materials like stone or ceramic. Prices generally range from £12 to £35 per m², making them a slightly more premium choice than vinyl sheets.

One of their key advantages is the ability to create custom patterns or layouts, adding a unique design element to your space. Available in a variety of finishes and textures, vinyl tiles can complement a wide range of interior styles.

While they come at a higher price point, they offer added benefits, such as the ease of replacing individual tiles if they become damaged, making them both practical and elegant.

Cost of Vinyl Flooring Planks

Price Range	Cost
Budget	£15 –£20 per m²
Midrange	£21 – £30 per m²
Premium	£31 – £40 per m²

Priced between £15 and £40 per m², vinyl planks are designed in plank shapes, giving the floor a realistic wood-like look.

This type of vinyl flooring is a good choice if you’re looking to achieve the appearance of hardwood —but without the associated cost and all the maintenance. Vinyl flooring planks provide a warm, inviting aesthetic and are available in a variety of finishes to match different decor styles.

They are durable and water-resistant, making them suitable for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens or bathrooms.

Cost of Click Vinyl Flooring

Price Range	Cost
Budget	£20 –£28 per m²
Midrange	£29 – £38 per m²
Premium	£39 – £45 per m²

This type of vinyl flooring has a click-lock installation system, which makes it easier to install than alternative types of vinyl flooring. It can also often be installed as a floating floor (without adhesives) which makes it a popular choice amongst anyone who wants to do a DIY vinyl flooring installation.

The click-lock system also allows for easy removal and replacement of individual planks for repairs, which makes it even more appealing for residential and commercial spaces.

The cost of click vinyl flooring is typically between about £20 to £45 per m².

Vinyl Flooring Installation Cost

On average, the cost of installing vinyl flooring in the UK ranges from £8 to £20 per m². Vinyl flooring installation costs typically vary based on the type of vinyl chosen and the professional's experience level.

Vinyl Flooring Type	Average Installation Cost
Vinyl Sheets	£8 – £12 per m²
Vinyl Tiles	£10 – £15 per m²
Vinyl Planks	£12 – £18 per m²
Click Vinyl	£15 – £20 per m²

Vinyl sheets generally have the lowest installation cost due to the larger, continuous rolls, which are faster to lay down. In contrast, click vinyl and vinyl planks require more precision and time due to their individual pieces, resulting in slightly higher labour costs.

Most UK flooring installers charge a fixed cost per square metre rather than an hourly rate. This fixed rate gives homeowners a straightforward way to budget for their project based on the room size.

This per-square-metre rate is typically based on an hourly rate of around £20 to £30. However, because most installers prefer to charge by the square metre, the project’s overall cost will reflect the total area covered rather than the hours worked.

This approach is common in the UK for most flooring projects, as it provides clarity on the overall expense regardless of the time required.

How Long Does Vinyl Flooring Take to Install?

The average time to install vinyl flooring is 20 to 30 minutes per square metre. This can vary slightly depending on the type of vinyl, with simpler materials like vinyl sheets taking less time, while click vinyl and vinyl planks may require additional time for precise fitting.

When planning a vinyl flooring installation, it’s helpful to know how long the process might take based on room size. The table below provides estimated installation times for three typical UK room sizes.

Room Size	Area	Estimated Installation Time
Small Room (e.g., bathroom)	5m² – 8m²	2 – 4 hours
Average Room (e.g., bedroom)	12m² – 15m²	4 – 8 hours
Large Room (e.g., living room)	20m² – 25m²	6 – 12 hours

These estimates assume that the subfloor is already prepped and ready for installation, which can affect the overall timeline if additional preparation is required.

Additional Vinyl Flooring Installation Costs

Old Flooring Removal Cost

Removing old flooring is often necessary before installing new vinyl, as a clean, level subfloor is essential for a durable installation. (There are exceptions here though, so check out the next big section for details on that.)

The cost of removing existing flooring varies based on the type of material, as some require more effort to detach. On average, UK homeowners can expect to pay between £5 and £15 per m² for flooring removal.

Flooring Type	Average Removal Cost
Carpet	£5 – £8 per m²
Tiles	£10 – £15 per m²
Laminate	£7 – £12 per m²
Hardwood	£10 – £15 per m²
Vinyl	£5 – £12 per m²

These costs generally cover the labour involved in removing the old flooring and clearing debris from the area. However, this does not typically include waste disposal. Skip hire remains a common choice for this, which costs between £150 to £250 depending on skip size and location.

Subfloor Preparation Cost

Preparing the subfloor is typically required in most vinyl flooring installations to ensure a smooth, stable base. Even minor issues can cause visible imperfections in a vinyl flooring installation.

For UK homeowners, basic subfloor preparation typically costs between £5 and £8 per m².

However, preparation of the subfloor before vinyl flooring installation will cost more than this if additional tasks are needed to bring the subfloor up to the required standard.

Preparation Type	Average Cost
Basic Levelling	£5 – £8 per m²
Crack Filling / Repairs	£6 – £10 per m²
Self-Levelling Compound	£10 – £15 per m²
Moisture Barrier	£3 – £5 per m²

Basic levelling involves sanding or smoothing minor uneven areas, while a self-levelling compound is applied to create a completely level base on significantly uneven surfaces. Crack repairs are priced based on the severity of the damage, and a moisture barrier is recommended in moisture-prone areas (e.g., bathrooms).

Underlay Cost

Underlay provides additional stability, insulation, and sound reduction for vinyl flooring.

It’s often recommended for click vinyl and certain vinyl planks to enhance comfort and durability, but is not required when installing vinyl sheets and some types of vinyl tiles.

The cost of underlay varies depending on quality — with budget, midrange, and luxury options available.

Let’s take a look at typical underlay costs per square metre in the table below:

Underlay Type	Average Cost
Budget	£2 – £4 per m²
Midrange	£5 – £8 per m²
Luxury	£9 – £12 per m²

Most UK homeowners opt for midrange underlay, which balances quality and affordability. The average cost for midrange underlay is £5 to £8 per m², providing sufficient comfort and soundproofing without a steep price.

These costs only include materials, but the labour required is usually included in the vinyl flooring installation cost. It’s always worth confirming this ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

Trim and Moulding Costs

To achieve a polished and professional look, trims and mouldings are often installed around the edges of vinyl flooring. These finishing touches cover the expansion gap between the flooring and the wall, giving the room a neat, finished appearance.

The cost for trims and mouldings varies based on the type, style, and material chosen:

Trim / Moulding Type	Average Cost
Basic Vinyl Trim	£5 – £6 per metre
Decorative Moulding	£7 – £9 per metre
Premium / Custom Trim	£9 – £10 per metre

Most UK homeowners tend to go with basic vinyl trim around the edges of their vinyl flooring, which costs between £5 and £6 per metre. It’s an affordable and functional choice, which provides a clean, seamless look by covering the expansion gap without adding much bulk or visual distraction. It also keeps the focus on the floor itself and helps to achieve a streamlined appearance.

For rooms with existing skirting boards, some homeowners choose to have vinyl flooring installed up to the skirting board without adding trim — as the skirting can already serve as a visual boundary.

However, if the skirting is removed for installation or the homeowner prefers a slightly elevated and decorative finish, a decorative moulding might be added for aesthetic appeal.

The pricing for trims and mouldings covers materials only. Labour for installing these trims is typically included in the overall vinyl flooring installation cost. However, you should check this when getting a quote from a tradesperson for this job.

Door Trimming Costs

When installing vinyl flooring, the added floor height may require doors to be trimmed to ensure they open and close smoothly. This adjustment is a common finishing step, especially when thicker vinyl types or underlay is used.

Professional door trimming costs between £20 and £50 per door in the UK, depending on the complexity and material of the door. For example, solid wood doors may be more costly to trim than hollow-core or lightweight doors due to the extra effort involved.

Some flooring installers include basic door trimming as part of the installation service, but this varies by provider — so you will need to check with them when getting a quote. Many flooring professionals will handle straightforward trims if minimal adjustment is needed.

But if extensive trimming is required, or if the installer doesn’t offer this service, you may need to hire a separate carpenter or handyman once your vinyl flooring installation has been completed.

Can You Install Vinyl Flooring Over Existing Flooring?

Vinyl flooring can sometimes be installed directly over existing floors, saving time and reducing labour costs. However, whether this is suitable depends on the type and condition of the current flooring.

In this section, we cover when installing vinyl over an existing floor, which is generally acceptable, and when it’s best to remove the old flooring first to ensure a smooth, lasting finish.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to book-in a consultation with a professional vinyl flooring fitter near you. They’ll be able to advise you on the best path forward.

When Can You Install Vinyl Over Existing Flooring?

Here’s a look at when it might be possible to install vinyl on top of existing flooring.

• Smooth, Even Surfaces — Vinyl can be installed over solid, flat surfaces such as concrete, ceramic tile with minimal grout lines, or a well-prepared subfloor.

• Low-Pile Carpet — Thin, low-pile carpets that are firmly adhered can occasionally serve as a base for vinyl, though this depends on their stability.

• Existing Vinyl in Good Condition — If there’s already a layer of vinyl that’s securely adhered, without peeling or bubbling, a new vinyl layer can often be installed directly over it.

When Can’t You Install Vinyl Over Existing Flooring?

Here’s a look at when it is best to remove the old flooring before laying down vinyl.

• Damaged or Uneven Floors — Any floor with visible cracks, holes, or uneven sections should be removed to avoid imperfections in the vinyl’s finish.

• Thick or Cushioned Carpet — High-pile or cushioned carpets should be taken up, as they prevent vinyl from laying flat and can lead to shifting or wear.

• Loose or Worn Vinyl or Laminate — If the existing vinyl or laminate is loose, peeling, or bubbled, it’s best to remove it for a stable base.

• Moisture-Prone Floors — Flooring types like tile or wood, which may retain moisture, should be removed to prevent trapped moisture, which can cause mould or mildew under vinyl.

Removing unsuitable existing flooring may require additional preparation time and cost, but it helps to create a stable, moisture-resistant base, ensuring that the new vinyl flooring looks its best and performs well over time.

Vinyl Flooring Maintenance and Cleaning

Vinyl flooring is popular for its low-maintenance qualities, making it an excellent choice for busy households. Although it’s durable and resilient, following a few regular care practices helps keep vinyl flooring looking as good as possible for as long as possible.

Let’s take a look at each of these in the subsections below.

Regular Cleaning

Sweeping or vacuuming regularly removes dust and debris that can scratch the surface. For a deeper clean, use a damp mop with warm water and a mild vinyl-safe cleaner.

Be careful not to oversaturate the floor, as excess water can seep into the edges and cause warping over time.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasives

Vinyl floors don’t require waxing or polishing, and using harsh chemicals can damage the protective surface layer.

Stick to pH-neutral cleaners for regular upkeep, as wax-based or abrasive products may leave a dull residue or cause surface wear, reducing the floor’s sheen.

Preventative Measures

Simple preventive steps help protect vinyl flooring from dents and scratches.

Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent marking, and use doormats at entrances to trap dirt. For high-traffic areas, area rugs are recommended to reduce wear.

It’s also wise to avoid sharp objects — trimming pet nails and handling heavy items with care help prevent scratches.

Occasional Deep Cleaning

For more stubborn stains or a deeper clean, a vinyl-specific cleaner is effective.

However, it’s critical that you follow the manufacturer's instructions, as some vinyl floors have finishes that may require particular products to be used to avoid damaging the flooring.

Deep cleaning, even if it’s infrequent, helps remove any accumulated grime and keeps your vinyl flooring looking good.

Vinyl Flooring Repair Cost

Repairing vinyl flooring is often necessary to address damage such as scratches, dents, or loose sections.

Repair costs generally reflect an hourly labour rate of around £20 to £30. However, most vinyl flooring fitters charge a fixed rate for these repairs based on the extent of the damage rather than an hourly or per-square-metre rate. This fixed cost would also tend to include material costs, unless you have leftovers from when you originally got it installed (which is highly recommended).

It’s worth noting that some types of vinyl flooring are easier and cheaper to repair than others. Let’s take a look at that now:

• Vinyl Sheets — The most challenging type of vinyl flooring to repair, as damaged areas often require cutting out and patching an entire section. Getting an invisible repair is difficult, as patch edges may be visible if not done carefully — especially with patterned or textured sheets.

• Vinyl Tiles — These are easier to repair than sheets, as individual tiles can be replaced without disturbing the surrounding area. However, aligning patterns and finding matching replacements can still be challenging (especially if the design has been discontinued).

• Vinyl Planks — Vinyl planks are usually straightforward to repair, as damaged planks can often be lifted out and individually replaced. However, if the planks were glued down, attempting to remove a damaged plank may disturb nearby planks.

• Click Vinyl — This is the easiest type of vinyl flooring to repair due to its interlocking system. Damaged sections can typically be removed and replaced without affecting the rest of the floor.

In summary, click vinyl is the easiest to repair because of its DIY-friendly interlocking design, while vinyl sheets are the most challenging because they require cutting and patching a continuous surface. Vinyl tiles and planks fall somewhere in between.

Vinyl Flooring Removal Cost

Removing vinyl flooring can be necessary if the existing floor is damaged, outdated, or if a clean subfloor is required for a new installation. The cost of removal varies based on the type of vinyl, as some types need more effort to detach.

For vinyl flooring removal, UK homeowners can expect to pay between £5 and £12 per m².

Vinyl Flooring Type	Typical Removal Cost
Vinyl Sheets	£5 – £8 per m²
Vinyl Tiles	£6 – £10 per m²
Vinyl Planks	£7 – £12 per m²
Click Vinyl	£5 – £8 per m²

These rates include labour for removing the flooring and basic cleanup (i.e., removing debris) but do not include expected disposal fees or subfloor preparation.

Disposing of waste from the removal of vinyl flooring typically involves hiring a skip, which costs between £150 to £250 (but the exact price will depend on the size of the skip and where you’re located).

Smaller skips are usually adequate for single-room projects, while larger skips may be required for larger or multi-room removals. The tradesperson removing your flooring may also offer to remove the waste, especially if only a small amount needs disposal. This will typically cost between £50 to £100 per load.

Checklist for Hiring a Vinyl Flooring Installer

Here’s a quick list of things you should consider when comparing quotes from different tradespeople for this job:

• Confirm what the quote they’re providing you includes. Ensure that the quote includes all agreed-upon services and potential additional costs in writing. This will give you clear documentation of what’s included.

• Verify what warranty or guarantee they provide. Ask if they provide one and clarify what it covers, particularly regarding the quality of installation and any follow-up support.

• Discuss what subfloor preparation is required. Ask if the installer will assess and prepare the subfloor, including levelling or crack repairs if needed. Confirm any additional charges for extensive subfloor preparation ahead of time.

• Determine your underlay requirements. Confirm if underlay is required for your specific vinyl type and if the installer will provide and install it. Check if underlay installation is included in the quoted price or if it’s an extra cost.

• Discuss the type of trims or mouldings they recommend. This is important if you want a seamless look and feel. Ensure the quote covers both materials and installation for these finishing touches.

• Ask if the installer will trim doors if needed. If door trimming isn’t included, you may need a separate tradesperson, which typically costs between £20 and £50 per door.

• Find out if they’ll handle old flooring removal and disposal. If not, you may need to arrange for skip hire or waste removal, with costs typically ranging from £150 to £250 for a skip.

To ensure you’re getting the best price for vinyl flooring installation in your area, it’s always a good idea to request quotes from at least three different professionals. This allows you to compare prices, services, and any guarantees offered — helping you make a well-informed choice and potentially saving money.

FAQs

Is Vinyl Flooring Cheaper Than Tiles?

Yes, vinyl flooring is generally more affordable than ceramic or porcelain tiles. Vinyl costs typically range from £8 to £38 per m², whereas tile flooring often starts at £20 per m² and can go much higher for premium options.

Vinyl installation also tends to be simpler and faster, which can further reduce labour costs compared to the more complex tile installation process.

Is Vinyl Flooring Better Than Laminate?

Vinyl and laminate each have advantages, but vinyl is generally more water-resistant, making it ideal for areas with moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens.

Laminate can offer a more authentic wood look and is often considered more environmentally friendly, as it uses wood-based materials.

However, if water resistance and easy maintenance are priorities, vinyl flooring is usually the better choice.

Is It Cheaper to Lay Carpet or Vinyl?

Vinyl is typically cheaper to install than carpet and often has a lower maintenance cost.

Carpet installation can be more labour-intensive, especially if underlay is required, and carpet may need frequent cleaning or replacement in high-traffic areas.

Vinyl, on the other hand, is durable, easy to clean, and generally more affordable to maintain over time, making it a cost-effective choice for busy areas.

Do Vinyl Floors Need to Be Glued Down?

No, not all types of vinyl floors require glue. Many modern vinyl options, such as click-lock vinyl and peel-and-stick tiles, don’t require any adhesive. This makes them easier to lay down, as well as replace if repairs are required in the future.

Traditional sheet vinyl and some vinyl tiles do usually need to be glued to the subfloor though, as it ensures there’s stability.

If in doubt whether it’ll be required, check what the manufacturer recommends — as the installation method can vary by product.

Can You Lay Vinyl on an Uneven Floor?

For best results, vinyl flooring should be installed on a smooth, even surface. An uneven subfloor can lead to visible imperfections, buckling, or even premature wear.

Minor unevenness can sometimes be corrected with a self-levelling compound, but for more significant issues, professional subfloor preparation is recommended to ensure a stable base and avoid future problems.

How Long After Laying Vinyl Can You Walk on It?

With glue-down vinyl, it’s recommended to wait 24 hours before walking on it to allow the adhesive to fully cure. For click-lock or loose-lay vinyl, you can walk on it immediately after installation.

However, with any vinyl type, it’s a good idea to avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor for at least 24 hours to prevent shifting or damage.

Can I Mop Vinyl Flooring?

Yes, vinyl flooring is safe to mop with warm water and a mild cleaner. Regular mopping helps maintain its appearance, but avoid excessive water, as too much moisture can seep into seams and edges, potentially causing damage over time.

Use pH-neutral or vinyl-specific cleaners to avoid dulling the finish, and avoid abrasive tools or strong chemicals.

What Rooms Should You Avoid Installing Vinyl Flooring In?

Vinyl flooring is durable, but it may not be suitable for rooms exposed to extreme temperature changes, like unheated sunrooms, as this can cause warping or cracking.

Additionally, vinyl might not be the best choice for rooms with very heavy furniture that could dent or permanently mark the surface. For such spaces, consider a harder flooring type, like tile or hardwood, which can withstand greater weight and temperature fluctuations.