Are you thinking of getting vinyl floors for your home? Well, that can definitely be a great decision, and I’m sure that you’ve done your fair share of research on the benefits of this option. So, there is no need for me to keep talking about why this could be a great option for your particular home, since you already have your own reasons why you want to use the vinyl solution.
There is, however, a need for me to tell you that there are different types of vinyl flooring out there and that you will need to be careful in order to choose the best one for you. I suppose you aren’t planning on winging it and hoping for the best, because that’s not how important decisions are made. And, this is undeniably an important decision.
There are a few factors that you’ll have to take into consideration when trying to choose your type, but we will get to those a bit later. First of all, we need to make absolutely sure that you are acquainted with the different types of vinyl floors, because there would be no point in skipping to the choosing part if you don’t know what you’re choosing among. So, let’s talk about the types.
Types Of Vinyl Floors
Vinyl floors come in three main types. Of course, there are always variations to the theme and there are, without a doubt, numerous finish options and styles to take into account, but we won’t talk about those today. Instead, we will talk about the three main types that I’ve mentioned, as that will definitely help you get a clearer picture on the flooring that you should get.
1. Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl flooring actually consists of continuous sheets of polymer. These are usually manufactured to be anywhere from 6 to 16 feet wide, and the two most common width options you’ll find on the market are 8 and 12 feet wide rolls. Thanks to those wide rolls, this type of flooring will have less seams, which will make it highly effective at repelling water. Some smaller rooms will only require one roll, meaning that there won’t be any seams at all. This is a good option for people on a budget who still want to have completely waterproof floors.
In case you’re not set on vinyl, here’s a guide that will help you choose your floors: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-choose-flooring-1821631
2. Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT)
Vinyl composite tiles are constructed using a combination of pulverized limestone, thermoplastic binders, filler materials and color pigments. These materials are first fused into solid sheets and then cut into tiles. This is an inexpensive flooring option and it is quite easy to install, which is why those DIY enthusiasts love it. While this option was the most popular one on the market for a long time, given that it appeared before those other options, its spotlight has now been stolen by sheet vinyl and by LVF, which is the third type that we are now going to explain.
3. Luxury Vinyl Flooring (LVF)
LVF, or luxury vinyl flooring is actually the most popular option nowadays. It provides for an amazing look and it also ensures that your floors are completely waterproof. LVF is much more rigid than the first two solutions, meaning that the planks and the tiles will be installed by sort of “clicking” together, so to speak. This is the most expensive option of the three, but its extreme durability and resistance definitely make up for the price and make it all worth it.
How To Choose Yours
Above I have hinted at the fact that there are certain factors you’ll have to consider when trying to choose your type. Durability and resistance are certainly the most obvious ones, but we cannot deny the fact that all vinyl floors are known for being pretty durable. So, let me tell you about some other factors that you’ll certainly have to keep in mind when choosing. Click this to learn a bit more about the benefits of vinyl floors in general.
1. Surface Texture
The surface texture should definitely be considered. If you’re worried about slipping, you should go for a product that can provide some grip under foot. LVF and VCT are the superior solutions here.
2. Printed Or Inlaid Design
The surface design can be made in different ways. The printed design layer is the most inexpensive option. Yet, the inlaid one offers increased durability. So, this is a matter of preference, but durability should also be kept in mind.
3. Thickness
Whichever option you go for, you shouldn’t forget to check the thickness of the product. Thicker sheets, planks or tiles will actually offer more comfort and be much more durable. Thus, thickness is a factor that shouldn’t be taken for granted.
