Looking for an extremely comfortable and affordable flooring option? If yes, then vinyl is the right choice. Under low maintenance, your floors shine brighter, which gives a warm welcome to the guests.
Adding to this, vinyl flooring is water-resistant, can handle high foot traffic, easy to install, and is an aesthetic choice for both commercial and residential buildings. In that instance, this would be a great choice for your new projects and renovations as well.
So, keep exploring this article to know A to Z about vinyl flooring. Guess what? It also covers installation methods, don’t miss to check it.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is the class of floors manufactured from synthetic polymer plastics, such as polyvinyl chloride, commonly referred to as PVC. This material is quite unique and popular among people. After all, it resists wear and tear, is easy to clean, and prevents water damage. It is also obtainable in diverse styles, including wood and stone at a cheaper attempt than real wood or stone.
Vinyl Flooring Types
There are several types of vinyl flooring with unique features. Here are the main types:
Luxury Vinyl Tile-LVT
LVT is an acronym that stands for Luxury Vinyl Tile, it is made from vinyl but is engineered to resemble other materials such as wood or stones. It is not a large and robust fiber, however, it is layered and thick. This is ideal to be laid out in places such as living rooms or bedrooms where you would want the stylishness of a floor that’s still easy to take care of.
Vinyl Roll
The vinyl roll is manufactured in large sheets that can be easily cut into separate pieces for the appropriate area. It is ideal in rooms where waterproof flooring is required, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Vinyl rolls are commonly available in widths ranging from 2 to 4 meters; installation is pretty simple by just laying or gluing.
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Sheet vinyl is also similar to vinyl roll, but this kind of flooring is available in wide big sheets(typically 6 or 12 feet). When installed, it creates a seamless surface throughout the room, making it suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank flooring is a great choice for house owners who need the look of wood flooring at a very affordable price. Because this resembles wood plank but is made of Vinyl. Plus, it can last up to 20 years if it is maintained properly.
Moreover, installing vinyl plank flooring is easy and perfect for DIY projects, which could take between 1 to 2 days. Its incredible durability makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms and basements.
Vinyl Tile Flooring
Vinyl tile floors consist of individual tiles that are installed one at a time. They are commonly used in offices or shops because of their durability and, when damaged, easy to replace. If it gets cracked, you just have to replace that single tile, not the entire floor.
The Cost of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is generally affordable to purchase. It majorly lies in the range from ₹ 50 to ₹ 200 per sq. ft, according to their type and quality. The long-lastingness and stunning look of LVT and vinyl planks make it quite expensive than others.
Vinyl roll and vinyl tiles are normally less expensive. The installation cost for vinyl is also relatively low because it is very easy to lay compared to other floors such as wooden or tile floors.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Vinyl Flooring
Benefits
- Long Lasting: With proper maintenance, the vinyl surface can serve the user for an estimated lifespan of twenty years.
- Water Resistant: Ideal for use in washrooms and kitchens.
- Low Maintenance: Regular cleaning requires only dusting and damp mopping.
- Affordability: Unlike wood, stone, or even ceramic tile floors, vinyl flooring is believed to be one of the affordable options that most people will go for.
- Comfort: Vinyl floorings are more cushioned when walking on them compared to tiles or timber making them more pleasant to use.
Disadvantages
- Vinyl is durable but does not have the longevity of real wood or stone floors.
- Scratches can occur due to sharp objects or due to heavy furniture.
- In case of huge damage, it might be quite difficult to repair the vinyl floor.
Properties of Vinyl Flooring
Durability
Vinyl flooring is strong and resistant to a high volume of footfalls because the wearing layer enables it to be resilient. It’s ideal for busy areas like hallways and living rooms because of its enduring nature.
Water Resistance
Perhaps one of the best features of vinyl flooring is that water will not damage it. This makes it the ultimate product for bathrooms and kitchens, as well as basements.
Comfort
Compared to other harder materials like wood or tile, vinyl flooring is soft and comfortable to stand on. This is easy on your feet and back if you have to stand for long periods.
Design Variation
Vinyl is available in many styles, mimicking the look of wood, stone, and modern patterns. In this respect, it becomes versatile for use in any room or style.
Installation Methods of the Vinyl Flooring
The laying of vinyl flooring is possible depending on the type. A few general laying methods include:
Glue Down Method:
The glue-down method involves applying adhesive to the subfloor before laying the vinyl down. This installation technique ensures a strong bond and is particularly beneficial in areas with heavy foot traffic, as it keeps the flooring securely in place. Two types of adhesives may be utilised: hard-set and pressure-sensitive. Hard-set adhesive is suitable for environments with heavy rolling traffic, while pressure-sensitive adhesive allows easier replacement of individual planks.
Click-Lock Method:
The Click-Lock method allows vinyl planks or tiles to be installed without the use of glue. Instead, the planks feature a mechanical locking system that snaps them together, creating a secure, floating floor. This method is popular due to its ease of installation, making it accessible for DIY projects, and is often regarded for its versatility and aesthetic appeal.
Loose-Lay Method:
The Loose-Lay installation method refers to laying vinyl flooring without any adhesives or fasteners. This technique relies on the weight of the vinyl material to keep it in place. It is beneficial for quick installations and renovations where the existing flooring does not need to be removed and allows easy maintenance as well as swapping of individual planks if needed.
Care and Cleaning of Vinyl Flooring
Care for vinyl flooring is really simple: just regularly sweep or vacuum it to remove dust and dirt. Then, one needs to simply mop the floor with water and a mild cleaner to keep it bright. Water and mild cleaners will do the trick; strong chemicals should not be used on vinyl, as they may burn the vinyl.
Best Rooms For Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is quite versatile, but it works best in rooms that have water and moisture concerns.
- Bathroom: Since Vinyl flooring does not absorb water, it is perfect for bathrooms. It can also resist humid conditions and occasional splashes without damage.
- Kitchen: Vinyl is easy to clean and resistant to spills; it is, therefore, very suitable for kitchens. Also, it’s soft on your feet while you cook.
- Basement: Basements can be susceptible to moisture problems, so vinyl can be a great choice. It will not buckle or become damaged due to wetness.
- Laundry room – Vinyl will do well in the laundry because it can easily withstand water in cases of spills or humidity.
Vinyl Flooring Sections – Other Options
Vinyl flooring is cheaper compared to hardwood and tiles. It’s easier to install and simple to maintain. It is softer and more comfortable to go with your feet.
However, vinyl does not last long like real wood or stone and may be scratched or damaged more easily. Vinyl is perfect for those who have a tight budget; yet, it does not provide the same luxurious touch as natural materials.
Conclusion
Vinyl floors are relatively cheap, long-lasting, and easy to maintain making them one of the most preferred choices for many people. Whether it is LVT, vinyl plank, or sheet vinyl, there is vinyl flooring suitable for every room in the house. It is water resistant so it’s great to use in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Although it is not as hard-wearing as wood or stone, the price and the many designs available make it a practical material for the majority of homes.