28/10/2026
Dogs, grandchildren… and a beautiful floor? Yes, you really can have all three. 🐾
It's one of the questions we're asked most: "Should we go for real wood or LVT?" Here's our honest, no-nonsense take.
🌳 Real wood (solid or engineered oak)
• Gorgeous and natural, and it can be sanded and refinished over the years
• Oak is fairly hard, but no wood is scratch-proof – claws and dropped toys will leave their mark
• Spills and wet paws need wiping up promptly
• Tip: a brushed, hardwax-oiled finish hides marks far better than a glossy lacquer
🏡 LVT (luxury vinyl tile)
• Water-resistant, so muddy paws, spilt juice and the odd accident are a quick wipe
• Resists scratches and scuffs well – look for a wear layer of 0.55mm or more in busy hallways and kitchens
• Warmer and softer underfoot than stone or ceramic tile – kinder on knees, and on little ones crawling about
• A damaged plank can often be replaced on its own
Our rule of thumb for busy households from Poole to Wimborne: LVT in the hallway, kitchen and anywhere the dog comes in from the garden; wood or carpet where life is a bit calmer.
A few care tips:
✔️ Put a mat at the back door, not just the front – on LVT, Karndean recommends latex- or polypropylene-backed mats, as PVC and many synthetic rubber backings can discolour the floor over time
✔️ Felt pads under table and chair legs – Karndean recommends protective pads and never dragging furniture across the floor
✔️ For everyday LVT cleaning, Karndean suggests a soft broom, then a mop with a pH-neutral cleaner approved for vinyl – and no bleach-based household cleaners
✔️ Keep the dog's claws trimmed – it makes a real difference
Got a question about your own floor? Pop it in the comments or send us a message for advice – we'll give you a straight answer. Or pop into our store on Wimborne Road, Bournemouth (BH11 9AR) and see the samples for yourself.
