Vinyl Flooring

By Theodore Robinson


If you're looking for a plastic-based flooring solution, then vinyl is the way to go. It is manufactured to consist of a middle layer of vinyl and a backing of felt or fiberglass and another top layer, also from vinyl, called the wear layer. The beauty of vinyl is that it can be made to look like any other flooring, even marble, stone or timber!

This apparent wonder of human manufacturing is procured by the process of 'rotogravure'. Rotogravure is just a fancy name for the printing method that allows vinyl to imitate other textiles. Practically any design can be printed on the vinyl using this method, making it a great choice for those after the look of more expensive flooring options without the heavy price tag.

The print of vinyl flooring is not on the top layer. The top layer, called the wear layer, is there to handle the brunt of usage and to protect the flooring. So the thicker this layer is the stronger and more hard-wearing the vinyl flooring is considered to be. The thickness of this wear layer is always being altered by manufacturers to achieve the best results for the consumer.

The main advantage of vinyl flooring is that it is waterproof, hard-wearing and resistant against scratches, holes and indents, simple to clean and lower maintenance than some of the other flooring solutions out there. It is used abundantly in kitchens and bathrooms because it is waterproof and strong against stains.

If you choose to have vinyl flooring installed, some simple maintenance tips will ensure the longevity of your vinyl. Sweep the floor regularly to keep away dirt that might cause scratches and keep mats at the entrances to pick up any dirt or sand before it reaches the vinyl flooring. Double check your mats are suitable for vinyl as some rubber backed ones can lead to staining or discolouring.

Of course, there is not one product that fits right for everybody and whether vinyl is right for you ultimately depend on your budget and lifestyle. If you expect your floor to receive a lot of heavy usage such as if you keep pets indoors or have children, then vinyl is recommended as it durable and easy to clean. Because of its water resistance, it is also a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but don't have to be limited to them.

Vinyl comes in the form of planks, tiles and sheets. This is another example of its great versatility as it makes it easy to find a vinyl shape and design to fit your rooms. Even if the subfloor is a bit uneven, it shouldn't be too much of an issue to install vinyl in top, just like carpet. And also like carpet, shares a soft, flexible feeling when trodden on.

Choosing the right vinyl flooring is not always an easy choice. You must consider many factors including what pattern, design or feel you require, how large are the rooms that need to be covered and if those patterns are feasible, surrounding colours and patterns in the room and how they will affect your flooring, as well as the shininess of the laminate.




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