Here are 5 Things You’ve Not Read About Vinyl Flooring Before
Vinyl flooring is a popular flooring solution in commercial properties and residential homes. Known for its versatility, durability, and no-fuss maintenance advantages, it’s a great option for homeowners. The vinyl flooring industry is booming globally, and it’s estimated that by 2028 the sector will be worth $51.45 billion. Thanks to its unwavering popularity, homeowners can relish the fact that vinyl floors will entice future buyers and up the value of their homes. If you want to learn more about this popular flooring material, these five facts might surprise you.
1. Vinyl is a Human-made Material
Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring solution made of polyvinyl chloride plastic (more commonly known as PVC). The manufacturing process involves small pieces of PVC that are heated and pressed together in thin layers. These layers form flexible sheets, which can then be left as they are or cut into floor planks and tiles. It can resemble a wide range of materials, including stone, ceramic, and wood depending on the type chosen. While it is sometimes compared to laminate flooring, it differs in that it is created from human-made, synthetic materials rather than all-natural wood by-products. This makes it a more cost-effective flooring solution and adds to its durability.
2. Vinyl has Early Origins and was Popularised in the 1970s
Vinyl has been around for well over 100 years. The material was first created by the German chemist Eugen Baumann in 1872. However, it only entered the flooring scene in 1933 when it was first introduced to the world at a convention in Chicago. While the innovation caused quite a stir, war-time constraints meant that large-scale production only commenced after the Second World War. Vinyl planks, in particular, had their dazzling moment in the spotlight in the 1970s. They were a popular choice for many families who wanted the look and feel of hardwood floors without having to fork out a fortune. Thereafter, vinyl flooring became synonymous with cost-effective flooring solutions.
3. There are Several Different Types of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is a versatile flooring solution and comes in several styles with varying visuals and colour varieties. Let’s explore some popular styles in more detail:
- Wood Look Vinyl/Vinyl Planks: These long narrow planks are made to emulate hardwood. They are thicker than sheet vinyl floors and offer fantastic durability. Planks are usually designed with a thicker layer of PVC and topped with a special design layer which resembles hardwood. This type of vinyl comes in a huge array of colours and styles, allowing for great versatility.
- Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT): While vinyl planks usually resemble wood, luxury vinyl tiles emulate ceramic or stone tiles. LVT is much easier to install than traditional stone since it doesn’t require grout. It’s also a far more cost-effective material and installation process, making it a budget-friendly solution.
- Cushion Vinyl: Cushion vinyl comes in roll form and in different widths. Since it is softer than LVT and LVP, it is a little less scratch resistant. Nonetheless, it’s still super durable and impermeable to water, making it great for areas like kitchens and bathrooms that are prone to moisture. When it comes to cushion vinyl, professional installation is advisable to ensure a smooth and precise finish.
4. Vinyl Flooring is Super Durable
Vinyl flooring is often classed under the category of ‘resilient flooring’ thanks to its flexibility. This term also speaks to its durability and resilience against general wear and tear. If it is installed correctly and well maintained, it can last upwards of 20 years. This makes it a great material in areas that get a lot of foot traffic. Most vinyl floors also have a specialised wear layer, which makes them less prone to scratching. Vinyl flooring is water resistant, meaning that it can withstand moisture and liquid spills. This makes it an ideal option for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
5. It’s Easy to Maintain
Part of its charm is the fact that it is so easy to maintain. In fact, it doesn’t need much maintenance at all – especially when it’s installed professionally and under warranty. A light mopping or wiping down once a week will usually suffice (unless you have malting pets or small children, in which case you might need to mop more regularly.) Avoid abrasive or harsh chemicals to enhance the floor’s lifespan and rather opt for water alone or a mild soapy solution.
Explore Vinyl Flooring Solutions with Us
If you want to up your flooring game and find a versatile, cost-effective, and low-maintenance solution, consider exploring our extensive range of vinyl floors or other options, including laminates and carpets. With so many colours and styles available – and varying prices to suit every type of budget, we’re confident that we can supply you with the vinyl floor of your dreams. Get in touch today, and we will happily assist you or try out our room visualisation tool and see what different options would look like in your unique space.
