Vinyl plank flooring is your ticket to affordable elegance and durability. It’s a flooring choice that effortlessly blends style with resilience, all without breaking the bank. But what makes vinyl plank truly exceptional is its boundless range of possibilities, and that’s something we love about this flooring option. Don’t let the versatility of this flooring type overwhelm you, our designers at Barmore Flooring and Design are here to guide you toward the right new flooring for your space.
Why Vinyl Flooring is Popular with Home Owners
- Cost Effective Style: Vinyl plank is one of the most affordable flooring options and might be a great option if you’re looking for a particular style, without the price tag. Whether you’re interested in wood, stone or tile, there’s a budget-friendly solution in vinyl plank. Don’t sacrifice your style – consider choosing vinyl plank instead!
- Easy Installation: Vinyl plank is a great choice for DIY-ers who are tackling their home improvement projects without going through an installer. In many cases, it can even be installed over your existing flooring.
- Durability: Vinyl plank is waterproof, scratch resistant, and the perfect choice for busy households with children or pets. While a home flood might warp your wood floors or damage your carpet, vinyl plank can withstand moisture, and can often be found in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas exposed to moisture.
Vinyl Flooring Options
Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP) often has a wood-look to it and is extremely affordable compared to actual wood flooring. With its texture and design, it will add warmth to any room in your home or office.
Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT) can have the appearance of stone or tile. It’s resistant to scratches, dents, and is often used for commercial flooring. VCT can be arranged into patterns and is easily installed and replaced.
Sheet Vinyl Flooring is a great budget-conscious option. It comes in a single roll of flooring and is meant to cover entire rooms like your living or dining room. It can be installed very quickly and easily.
When to Replace Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring has made significant strides in recent years, making it a worthwhile option to consider if you’re thinking about replacing your outdated floors. However, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Warping: Due to its relatively thinner nature compared to wood, vinyl flooring may have a shorter overall lifespan. Heavy traffic and prolonged use can lead to warping. The good news is that vinyl flooring is quite resilient and can be easily repaired and reset using basic floor adhesives and applied pressure.
- Color Fading: Vinyl flooring exposed to direct sunlight and higher temperatures may experience fading, especially in areas with ample sunlight. For this reason, it’s advisable to use vinyl flooring indoors, as it’s not recommended for outdoor applications.
- Vinyl Flooring and VOCs: Certain brands of luxury vinyl flooring can omit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. As older vinyl flooring breaks down, it can also emit VOCs. At Barmore Flooring and Design, we exclusively carry vinyl flooring brands that adhere to U.S. flooring and emission standards.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity and Protection
- Clean With A Microfiber Mop:
- To preserve the appearance of your vinyl flooring and prevent scratches, it’s crucial to adopt a regular cleaning routine. A microfiber mop emerges as the ideal tool for this task, efficiently removing grit, particles, and dirt that could otherwise scratch the surface of your flooring.
- Use The Right Cleaner And Apply Sparingly:
- Opt for cleaners formulated for no-wax floors, as these are best suited for vinyl. When cleaning, use warm water and an appropriate amount of cleaner. It’s important not to overuse cleaner or apply excessive pressure during cleaning, as this can strip away the protective wax layer on the vinyl. After cleaning, rinse the floor with cool water and dry it thoroughly using a dry mop.
- Use Floor Protectors:
- Heavy furniture such as couches, entertainment centers, tables, and refrigerators can potentially cause tearing or denting. To prevent such damage and safeguard the wax finish, consider using floor protectors or furniture feet on your heavy furniture pieces. This simple precaution can go a long way in preserving the integrity of your vinyl flooring.
Laminate
Laminate’s affordability makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners, providing a cost-effective alternative that mimics the look of hardwood or stone. The durability of laminate makes it resistant to scratches, stains, and wear, ensuring longevity even in high-traffic areas. However one key difference is that laminate cannot be re-finished and is not waterproof. Thus it’s not ideal for use in areas with high moisture like bathrooms.