Vinyl flooring is an affordable alternative to traditional flooring materials. It’s easy to install, durable, and comes in a variety of styles and colors.
While the most popular vinyl floors look like wood planks, they can also mimic the textures and appearance of stone, ceramic, or brick. Luxury vinyl is even available with a clear top coat layer.
The first step to installing vinyl is to prepare the base layer. This can include adding plywood or other materials between the flooring and your existing floor. You should consider whether your new floors will receive constant direct sunlight or need to be protected with blinds or drapes. If the floor will be exposed to harsh elements, you should look for a floor that has UV-resistant coatings on its wear layer.
Sheet vinyl is the most common type of vinyl. Sheets are usually rolled out flat and glued with double-sided tape. They come in a variety of sizes, from six inches to 12 inches wide. For large floors, you can add more sheets for seams that will be formed as the sheets meet.
Linoleum is a natural product that is a little more expensive than vinyl. Unlike sheet vinyl, linoleum is a durable surface that needs to be waxed every year. A good cleaning solution is apple cider vinegar. Vinegar has an acidity that can cut through dirt, so it’s a great way to clean vinyl floors.
In order to make a vinyl floor look realistic, it’s often covered with several layers of polyurethane. Each layer protects the surface and provides durability. Some modern vinyl sheet flooring looks like terracotta or marble. Other surface textures mimic scraping, embossing, or diagonal installation.
Another layer is the cushion layer, which is made from felt or foam. It’s intended to prevent scratches on furniture legs and other surfaces.
Vinyl flooring is a durable product that can stand up to heavy foot traffic and moisture. However, it’s not always the best choice for every home. Those who have children or pets may want to consider other options.
Vinyl flooring can be difficult to remove after a fire. It may release hydrogen chloride, which is dangerous to the environment and can cause respiratory problems. Also, some vinyl floors off-gas VOCs after they are installed.
Some people prefer to use a product to hide the damage of vinyl floors. Using wax on a floor can dull it and make it slippery. Likewise, rubber linings and wheels can scratch or damage vinyl. Instead of using wax, you can use a soft-headed broom and a bucket of water to wipe your floor down.
If you’re looking for a floor that will last for years, you may want to try luxury vinyl. Luxury vinyl is an excellent long-term choice, as it is affordable and can be used in many different spaces. It’s also easy to maintain. Keep it free of dust and debris, and mop or vacuum your floor at least once a week.
The Different Types of Vinyl Flooring