Vinyl flooring hasn't always been at the top of the list when considering top-notch covering, but technology and quality advancements have moved it way up the charts.
When considering your new flooring options, vinyl and luxury vinyl deserve a closer look. Let's check out the different types of vinyl flooring.
The Benefits of Buying Vinyl Flooring
Before researching the best types of vinyl flooring for your home, you may be curious about the benefits of it over other options.
Vinyl flooring is highly durable and can hold up to extensive foot traffic. It does well in rooms that see a lot of activity. It is also moisture resistant. This allows it to be a great choice for the kitchen and bathroom which can often suffer water damage.
Your new vinyl flooring can be installed with only minor prep work and the entire process can be done quickly and easily.
One of the best features of today's choices in vinyl is the ability to match the look and style of more costly flooring types. You can have the look of hardwood floors or stone and marble at the fraction of the cost.
So what are the vinyl flooring types to choose from?
The Vinyl Plank
Vinyl planks are designed to mimic hardwood floors. There are varieties made to cover almost all wood grains, textures, and colors.
While having the appeal and design of wood, their function is much greater. Wood flooring is not water-resistant, whereas these vinyl planks are. They are more stain-resistant as well than traditional wood and easier to maintain.
The Vinyl Tile
Vinyl tiles are made to resemble stone tiles. They come in a host of colors and sizes and can be arranged in a variety of patterns. The design possibilities are endless.
Grout can even be added in between the tiles to further enhance the look of stone or ceramic tiles.
This type of flooring is good for small areas as the tiles are easier to handle and can easily be cut to fit in tight spaces. It is also easier to replace a damaged section with a new single tile.
The Vinyl Sheet
As the name suggests, the vinyl sheeting is a roll of flooring up to 12' wide. This type of flooring is good for large areas and there are also fewer seams to align.
It is affordable, while also being very durable, and can be laid down over existing flooring such as wood, tile, or even previous vinyl.
Inlaid vinyl is a highly popular style for high traffic areas and is made by embedding the color granules directly into the top layer of the vinyl. This creates a more durable look that resists scratches and marks.
Even though today's vinyl flooring is designed to look beautiful for a longer period of time, there are still steps to take to keep it protected and shiny for years to come.
What Is Luxury Vinyl Tile
Luxury vinyl, or LVT, is an expansion of the above-mentioned flooring styles. It is considered thick vinyl flooring, being almost 5 times thicker than standard vinyl. It is the additional material that provides fullness and adds to the realistic look of wood or stone.
It is designed using 3D printers and can replicate almost any natural stone or wood flooring available.
It is a high-functioning flooring option that provides durability with a classic, expensive look without the higher price tag. It is manufactured to last longer than traditional vinyl and has an estimated lifespan of up to 20 years.
Once you choose the right vinyl flooring for you, here are 6 tips for keeping it clean.
Types of Vinyl Flooring - The Layers Explained
Most vinyl flooring has 4 distinct layers. Depending on the type and cost of the flooring itself, these layers will have different constructions and quantities, but all four still exist.
The Backing Layer
This is the first, or bottom layer of the flooring, and is usually made of cork or foam with a dual purpose.
First, it serves as the underlayment for the vinyl so you do not have to purchase or lay down anything between the current bare floor and the vinyl. Second, it serves as a cushion and sound barrier.
The Water Resistant Layer
If you are purchasing waterproof vinyl, this is the next layer. This layer is made to absorb moisture without swelling so the integrity of your floor is not compromised.
There are two types of waterproofing layers; the WPC and the SPC. WPC is constructed with a combination of wood/plastic composite and SPC is made using a stone/plastic composite.
The Printed Layer
This is the fun layer and where all the design flair comes out. This is what is seen and what people spend the most time on when deciding which flooring they want.
While the other layers are important to the function and durability of the product, it is this layer that gets the buyer excited as there are now so many options, colors, textures, and looks to choose from.
The Wear Layer
This is the top layer and the protector of all the other layers. It is what stands between all the wear and tear and activities done on the floor.
It is important to be aware of the thickness and construction of the wear layer on whatever vinyl flooring option you go with. High traffic areas need a thicker grade wear layer to keep your floor looking great for a long time. The areas that see less activity can go with a lower wear grade, but always keep in mind the importance of this layer.
The Choice Is Yours
Deciding to put down new flooring in your home opens up a variety of options. Depending on the room and the activity there, you need to make the right choice for function, durability, and style.
Today's versatile types of vinyl flooring give you a range of possibilities with a price tag most people can live with.
For more information on how we can help with all your flooring needs, please reach out.
