Vinyl flooring is a popular option among homeowners seeking to modify the look of their homes. Vinyl flooring is particularly used in kitchen and bathroom applications as it is water- and stain-resistant, versatile, and provides good durability at the cost. Over the years, vinyl flooring has become attractive and economical. There are two main types of vinyl flooring options: sheet and tile. While sheet flooring is more water-resistant and is easier to install, vinyl tile replicates the look of a ceramic tile floor at a more affordable cost. Vinyl tiles are installed in commercial settings where constant high traffic and a clean or static-free environment are desired. It can also be a versatile and cost-effective choice for any household. Vinyl tile flooring can also be used where much moisture is expected. It is used in remodels to replace higher maintenance flooring, like carpets in your home.
THE PROS AND CONS OF VINYL FLOORING
Vinyl flooring is durable and stands up well to heavy foot traffic. It is a comfortable choice as it reduces noise, which is important for owners dealing with stress and owners with kids or pets. Vinyl flooring has many benefits, including being a cheaper choice than many other flooring options and being easy to install and maintain. Vinyl flooring comes in various colors and patterns to match every decor, including various lifelike wood grains. You can easily design as per your personal preference.
One disadvantage of installing vinyl floors is that they do not withstand heavy loads and can easily be damaged by sharp objects. Also, colors can fade with exposure to too much direct sunlight and extreme temperatures can damage floors. Vinyl is, therefore, not recommended for outdoor or indoor/outdoor uses.
INSTALLATION OF VINYL FLOORING
To successfully install vinyl flooring, you must first pay attention to the flooring itself. Vinyl tiles require an extremely smooth surface because flaws and imperfections will appear as bumps and indentations on your floor. You must ensure that the floor upon which you plan to install vinyl flooring fulfills this criterion. Usually, the best subfloor is a layer of well-sanded plywood. Most manufacturers do not recommend laying new vinyl over more than one layer of existing vinyl. There is no guarantee regarding the flooring if there is more than one layer of vinyl beneath. Vinyl also will not be suitable for you if you are into patterned textures. A patterned vinyl texture will eventually fade away. Also, it would be best to know some manufacturers offering do-it-yourself installation kits. While DIY seems a good idea and makes the whole process simple and easy, many homeowners still hire a contractor to achieve a smooth, professional look. Hiring a professional is always a smart decision when installing vinyl flooring.
