When you're embarking on a remodel or new build project,
you'll have many flooring options from which to choose. You may gravitate first
toward the usual choices, such as hardwood and laminate. However, you should
also keep vinyl flooring in mind. Read on to learn the benefits of vinyl
flooring in your home.
Vinyl Can Mimic Hardwood, Tile, or Natural Stone
When you start shopping for vinyl flooring, you'll discover
it comes in three construction options. You can choose sheet vinyl, which comes
in 6-foot or
12-foot rolls. You can also choose vinyl tiles or planks. All three options
come in a range of patterns made to mimic the look of hardwood, tile, or
natural stone at a big decrease in price.
If you want a floor that realistically resembles one of
those high-end materials, choose either tiles or planks. The contractors
install them using similar methods to the material they resemble. For example,
contractors can even grout certain vinyl tiles. Vinyl planks are made to
closely resemble hardwood planks, even coming in the same sizes.
Vinyl Flooring is Cushioned
A vinyl sheet consists of six layers. The manufacturers
start with a base layer covered in fiberglass to keep the sheet flat.
Underneath the protective topcoat is a wear layer that protects the pattern
layer. Sandwiched in between all that is a cushion layer, which adds bounce and
texture. Some vinyl tiles also feature this cushion layer.
That cushion layer is one of the features that makes vinyl
stand out as a flooring option. If you've ever spent any time standing on a
tiled floor, you know the hard surface can be difficult on your back and legs.
Walking or standing on a vinyl floor with a cushion layer is far more
comfortable. What's more, dropped dishes are less likely to break because of
that cushioning.
Another advantage of cushioned vinyl flooring is the cushion
layer dampens noise. This reduction in noise is useful for households that have
children and pets. As a bonus, the construction of the sheets keep vinyl
flooring from getting too cold.
Vinyl Flooring is Durable
As a whole, all vinyl flooring is durable. A vinyl floor can
easily last 10
to 20 yearswith minimal maintenance, and manufacturers offer warranties
that could last the entire time you own your home.
That said, different levels of vinyl affect its durability.
Generally speaking, the thicker the vinyl layer, the longer the flooring is
expected to last. For instance, a vinyl sheet that's 0.080 inch
thickmight carry a 10-year warranty. A sheet that's 0.125 inch thick might
carry a 25-year warranty. Thicker sheets tend to be more expensive, but vinyl
is still an exceptionally budget-friendly option.
The composition of the vinyl flooring also affects its
durability. Solid and composite vinyl have colors that permeate every layer.
Therefore, these sheets or tiles are more resistant to scratches. Printed vinyl
is not quite as durable, but vinyl tiles and planks are ideal because you can
replace damaged pieces individually.
Vinyl Flooring Requires Little Maintenance
Hardwood and marble floors are gorgeous. However, they
require maintenance to keep them looking so beautiful. While vinyl doesn't
perfectly mimic those high-end materials, it does a reasonable job. And vinyl
requires much less upkeep.
The protective layers of printed vinyl make it exceptionally
stain resistant. You will want to wipe up dark liquids relatively quickly, but
the surface should maintain its beauty.
When it comes to the actual maintenance of your vinyl
flooring, you should use a soft mop with soapy water to clean the surface.
Vacuuming or sweeping periodically will keep the surface from getting grimy.
Avoid using abrasives, bleach, or ammonia as they can wear away the surface of
the vinyl flooring.
Consider vinyl flooring for your next remodel or
new build project. Contact
Mikro
Corrporationfor any of your flooring needs.
