Top Vinyl Flooring Brands in Australia 2025: Reviews & Buying Guide
Choosing the right vinyl flooring is key to creating a stylish, durable, and comfortable home or commercial space. In Australia, options range from luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) and planks (LVP) to rigid core and glue-down floors, each with different performance and design features.
In this 2025 guide, I review top brands including Karndean, Ultimo, Mohawk, Shaw, Mannington, and NFD. I cover durability, waterproofing, installation options, and realistic wood or stone designs, helping you weigh style, performance, and budget. Whether you want a DIY-friendly floor or a professional-grade solution, this guide helps you choose the perfect vinyl floor for your space.
Karndean: Luxury Vinyl Flooring Review & 2025 Features
Karndean is a top choice for luxury vinyl flooring in Australia. I admire their new designs, attention to detail, and how well they create floors that look like real stone and wood. Here is what I think stands out about Karndean’s vinyl flooring in 2025:
Key Product Features
Range of Styles: Karndean offers LVT planks and tiles that do a great job of mimicking the feel and look of real oak, walnut, limestone, and concrete. I find that the stone-effect tiles use patterns from around the world, which gives them a more genuine finish.
Installation Options:
Gluedown: I suggest this for custom layouts. It’s great for unique designs, but you will likely need a professional to install it.
Rigid Core: This is a quick floating floor installation. It’s a great choice for homes that want to avoid a lot of mess and fuss.
LooseLay: This type uses a K-Wave® backing. I like it because it adds extra comfort and is easy to remove or reinstall later.
Major Collections:
Opus: I see this as a solid mid-range choice with modern wood and stone styles. It has a clean design and you can add grout-effect strips to make it look even more real.
LooseLay: This collection feels great underfoot and is simple to lift up. It offers a wide variety of wood and stone looks.
Knight Tile: This is the entry-level collection. It comes in many sizes and colors. You can get it as a gluedown or rigid core floor, so you have choices for how you install it.
Performance, Durability & Support
Waterproof & Durable: All Karndean vinyl flooring is waterproof. It is built to handle traffic in both homes and businesses. I find the maintenance is simple, and most floors come with a lifetime warranty.
Comfort: The LooseLay collection provides extra cushioning. This makes it more comfortable to walk on, which is great for busy homes or commercial spaces.
Expert Network: You can get Karndean flooring through a network of small, specialized stores. From my perspective, this means you get personal service and deep product knowledge that you won’t find in big chain stores.
Supply: Their local distribution centers provide quick delivery and good stock levels across Australia and New Zealand.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– The natural wood and stone looks are very realistic.
– You can choose from several installation methods for any type of project.
– The floors are durable, waterproof, and have a lifetime warranty.
– You get expert support and personal service from independent stores.
Cons:- The price is in the mid-to-high range. It costs more than standard vinyl flooring.- I’d recommend professional installation for some products, like the gluedown styles. This might reduce your DIY options.
TrioFlor: Customizable Vinyl Flooring for the Australian Market
I think TrioFlor is a solid choice for vinyl flooring. They make several types, like SPC, WPC, and LVT, and also offer vinyl sheets. From what I’ve seen, their products work well for both homes and businesses in Australia.
Product Selection & Customization Options
Great Product Variety: Their range is impressive. They have LVT planks, tiles, rigid SPC, comfy WPC, and two kinds of vinyl sheets.
Designs You Can Personalize: I like that you can ask for custom sizes, patterns, and materials for your project. TrioFlor works with many color film makers, which makes it easy to get floors that match Australian designs or specific colors you need.
Fresh Design Ideas: Based on my experience, keeping up with trends is key. Their catalogues get frequent updates with new styles from top designers. If you’re in Australia, you can see local examples and even order special color films. This helps make sure the floor fits your space perfectly.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– I recommend them for their flexibility. You can customize the finish, size, and color for any project.
– They offer current styles. Their catalogues are updated often with designs that are popular in Australia.
– I think their direct control over making and selling the product adds stability and makes them reliable.
– You get access to new designs because of their good partnerships around the world.
Cons:
– In Australia, they are not as well-known as some of the bigger local brands.
– You might face longer delivery times. This can happen with completely custom orders that need international shipping.
– From what I understand, installation and support come from the local distributor. TrioFlor doesn’t handle that part directly.
Mohawk: Vinyl Flooring Features, Performance & 2025 Pros and Cons
Mohawk is a top name in vinyl flooring worldwide. For 2025, I see them offering a great range of luxury vinyl tile (LVT), sheet vinyl, and resilient flooring. Their products are suitable for homes and businesses across Australia.
Key Features & Technology
Advanced Waterproofing (SplashDefense®): I suggest this for wet areas. The floors are 100% waterproof because the joints have a tight seal. This makes them a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms, as they protect against spills.
Antimicrobial CleanProtect®: I think this feature is very important. It has built-in protection against germs, which helps make indoor spaces healthier. This is especially good for families or places like clinics and schools.
Simple Installation: I appreciate how simple they make the installation. Each plank comes with a 1mm attached pad, so you don’t need a separate underlayment. In my opinion, this makes the process faster and easier for DIY projects.
Durability: The LVT planks are built to last with a 6mm thickness and a 22 mil wear layer. For homes, Mohawk provides a limited lifetime warranty. For light commercial use, they offer a 10-year warranty, which I find to be quite fair.
Modern Plank Size: I like the plank size. Each one is about 9.4” x 47.8”, which creates a modern, wide-plank appearance.
Commercial Solutions & Healthier Options
Healthy Environments Range: Mohawk offers PVC-free floors that are hygienic, durable, and easy to clean. I recommend these options for places like hospitals and schools where cleanliness is key.
Collections: From my perspective, lines like Terrazzo 2.5/5.0 and Fluid State are excellent. They combine modern styles with tough performance. This makes them ideal for the style and durability required in large buildings.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– Based on my experience, Mohawk is a trusted brand and a leader in vinyl flooring tech and healthy features.
– I like that the floors are waterproof and fight germs, which is great for tough areas.
– Installation is quick with the attached pad, and the wide planks look modern.
– I suggest looking into their warranties. They offer good coverage for homes and businesses.
– They regularly update products with options that fit Australian home styles.
Cons:
– I found that user ratings are not all positive. A 3.7 out of 5 average shows that some customers have issues with installation or long-term wear.
– I’ve noticed that prices can change with inflation. Also, some product lines are sold through specific suppliers, which can make them harder to find.
Shaw Floors: Australian Vinyl Flooring Brand Review & 2025 Performance
Shaw Floors is a top Vinyl Flooring Brand in Australia. They offer many flooring solutions for both homes and commercial spaces. For 2025, Shaw provides great options like Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), Stone Polymer Core (SPC), and Wood Polymer Core (WPC) floors. I believe they’ve built their reputation by balancing style, durability, and eco-friendly practices.
Key Features & Technical Performance
Durability: I think Shaw’s vinyl is made to last. If you take good care of it, you can expect a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. Their floors have a strong 20 MIL wear layer and an Armourbead™ finish. This combination helps the floors resist scratches, stains, dents, and fading.
Waterproof Construction: I’ve found that premium lines like Matrix by Shaw Floors are completely waterproof. Planks won’t swell, crack, or peel from spills, making them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. The WPC foam core also makes the floor feel warmer and softer, and it helps cut down on noise in busy homes.
Visuals & Sizing: As an example, the Matrix by Shaw Floors Premium line has 7” x 48” planks that are 8 mm thick. Each carton covers 18.81 sq ft. I like how the surface looks like White Oak wood, and the realistic embossing gives it an authentic feel.
Certified Eco-Friendliness: Shaw’s vinyl flooring has both GREENGUARD and Cradle-to-Cradle certifications. This tells me they focus on low VOC emissions and safe production methods. This makes it a great choice if you want a healthier floor for your home and the planet.
Flexible Installation: You can install Shaw floors on any level of your home. You have installation options like glue, floating, nail, or staple methods. I also noticed that some collections work with radiant heat systems, which is a great feature for extra comfort.
Pros & Cons
Pros:- I find Shaw offers a huge variety of styles and finishes. You can find an option for almost any design preference.- Their floors are very pet-friendly. They are made to stand up to stains and scratches, which I recommend for families with kids and pets.- I suggest you request product samples. This can help you pick the perfect floor and be more sure of your decision.- They design these floors for high-traffic zones. I consider them a dependable choice for both homes and busy workplaces.
Cons:
– Pricing: Some of Shaw’s top collections are more expensive than basic options. I recommend getting a few quotes if you’re flooring a large space.
– Availability: I’ve noticed stock levels can change. Access to certain styles might depend on your location or face temporary shortages.
Mannington: ADURA® Luxury Vinyl Flooring – Australian 2025 Update
Based on my experience, Mannington is well-known in Australia. People like their stylish designs and tough flooring. I find their ADURA® luxury vinyl collection particularly impressive. For 2025, they have released 18 new designs. These include stone, wood, and other creative styles that capture the latest trends for modern and classic homes.
Key Features & Design Highlights
2025 Releases: New patterns include Rapolano (Marble, Ivory, Stone), Dwell (Haven, Sanctum, Retreat), Gala (Vine, Orchard, Blossom), Basilica (Pillar, Statue, Granite), Highland Oak (Moorland, Forest Glen, Loch View), and Timber (Sap, Pulp, Bark).
Built to Last: I’ve seen how tough Mannington floors are. They are waterproof and resist both stains and scratches. They are designed to handle the wear and tear of a busy Australian home.
Looks for Any Style: I like the variety. Collections like Vienna (Alabaster) and Sanctuary (Fresh Air) give you realistic wood and stone looks. Others, like Deco (Wrought Iron), have creative artistic designs. I think it is easy to find a match for any home or business space.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– Very durable: it’s waterproof, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant, so maintenance is simple.
– Many style choices: you get a huge selection of trendy and classic looks perfect for homes and offices.
– I recommend the virtual decorator tool for accurate planning.
– A clear focus on using sustainable and new flooring materials.
Cons:
– Higher Price: I have to point out it costs more than many standard vinyl floors. This might not appeal to buyers on a tight budget.
– Limited Availability: You might find that some new or special collections are hard to get in certain parts of Australia.
A Review of NFD’s Australian Vinyl Flooring Performance & Eco-Features
NFD (National Flooring Distributors) is an Australian-owned and operated vinyl flooring brand. They focus on strong performance and sustainability. I often suggest NFD for homes and businesses. They offer a great mix of style, strength, and care for the environment.
Core Features & Technology
100% Waterproof Surface: NFD’s vinyl flooring is completely waterproof. I find this makes it a safe choice for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Advanced Anti-Slip Backing: Their floors have an anti-slip backing and a Slip Rating of P3. I think this extra grip is great for safety and gives you peace of mind.
Fibreglass Reinforcement: Every plank has a fibreglass layer inside. This makes the floor more stable and resistant to wear. This is why NFD floors work well in busy homes and commercial areas.
Fast, Straightforward Installation: I personally like how simple NFD’s installation is. It’s fast and easy, which is a huge help for renovations or projects on a tight schedule.
Sustainability & Certifications: I’m impressed with NFD’s focus on the environment. Their floors have FloorScore and GreenTag certified, which ensures the materials are safe and have low emissions. I also admire their “Forever & Ever” recycling program. They collect and reuse old vinyl and carpet tiles to keep them out of landfills.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– It is very durable because of the fibreglass core and thick wear layer.
– The waterproof and anti-slip design makes it safer and lasts longer.
– I like their clear commitment to the environment, shown by their recycling program and green certifications.
– They offer many attractive styles, from realistic wood-looks to modern designs.
Cons:
– The commercial warranty is 15 years. This is shorter than the lifetime warranty for home use.
– Product specs can differ between collections. I suggest you always check the details for the specific floor you choose.
Ultimo Vinyl Flooring: Waterproof, Durable & Australian Timber Designs
Ultimo is a top vinyl flooring choice in Australia. I recommend it if you need a 100% waterproof and very tough floor. It performs well in changing climates and busy homes.
Key Features & Technical Specs
Waterproof Construction: Every Ultimo floor is 100% waterproof. I think it’s a perfect choice for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries.
Dimensional Stability: I value its stability. The planks don’t easily warp or shrink. This is great for homes with big temperature swings or moisture changes.
Durability: The 0.55mm wear layer and Superguard® coating protect it from everyday scratches and stains.
Design Range: You can choose from up to 12 modern colors. I love the realistic Australian timber styles (like Spotted Gum and Blackbutt). They also offer trendy oak finishes.
Board Size & Coverage: The planks are 1320mm x 196mm. Each box has 14 boards and covers 3.62 m². This makes planning for both large and small jobs much easier.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
– It’s 100% waterproof and holds its shape, so it won’t warp or shrink.
– I like the wide choice of realistic timber and oak looks for any room.
– It comes in different thicknesses to fit your budget and needs.
– It’s great for wet areas when installed right and works with hydronic heating.
– The floor feels soft and warm, reduces noise, and isn’t slippery.
– It’s made with a strong focus on safety and the environment.
Cons:
– It requires a glue-down installation, which is not easy for most DIYers.
– Using it in wet areas or with heating depends on proper installation and local codes.
– It only works with hydronic underfloor heating, not electric systems.
My Final Thoughts: Which Vinyl Brand Is for You? (2025 Guide)
For the most realistic look & lots of options: Karndean
If you need waterproof floors at a good price: Ultimo
For a long warranty & solid value: Preference Floors (Easi-Plank/Aspire)
For budget-friendly, green, or tough options: Godfrey Hirst, Clever Choice, Gerflor, Titan
For designer looks without the designer price: Polyflor
Factors I always consider:
– Installation style (glue-down vs. rigid core)
– Thickness (2.5mm for budget, 4.5mm+ for strength)
– Warranty and after-sales help
– Water and slip resistance. I pay close attention to this for wet areas.
– Noise level and how it feels to walk on.
– How real it looks and if the design fits an Australian home.
Picking the right vinyl floor in 2025 is a balancing act. You have to weigh the technical details, toughness, and style against what you can spend and what your room needs. I suggest you use these brand points to make a short list. Then you can compare them before making your final decision.