Vinyl flooring first became available in the 1950s, offering an alternative solution to linoleum floors. Homeowners liked vinyl plank flooring because it was just as durable and versatile as linoleum, but had a much smaller price tag. Today, vinyl flooring is still durable and inexpensive. And it’s more versatile than ever, with many different colors and styles to choose from. Vinyl is most often used in kitchens and bathrooms because of its natural resistance to water and bacteria.

Advantages of Vinyl Flooring

When compared to other types of floor, the most important advantage of vinyl flooring is its lower cost. Thicker vinyl tile is more expensive than thin tile. Overall, however, vinyl plank flooring is one of the most budget-friendly types of floor available. In addition, Vinyl flooring is also relatively easy to install. Homeowners rarely need the assistance of a professional installation crew to install vinyl flooring. Vinyl flooring is also water-repellant and extremely low-maintenance.

Drawbacks of Vinyl Plank Flooring

If environmental consciousness is a concern for you, vinyl flooring shouldn’t be your first choice. It’s made of synthetic materials that are not great for the environment, and there are many other earth-friendly flooring types available. Vinyl can also look cheaper than other types of floor, and thin tiles wear easily. If you choose vinyl for your floor, spend a little extra on thicker tiles. You’ll still save money, and the thicker tiles look better and last longer than their less expensive counterparts.

How to Install Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring installation is a relatively simple procedure. You can purchase the vinyl in either sheets or tiles. Vinyl tile is easier to install and often comes pre-glued. Be very careful when laying down pre-glued vinyl tile, because mistakes can be difficult or impossible to fix. When purchasing your vinyl, buy a little extra tile and adhesive. You can use these extras to make any necessary repairs later.

Some general steps to follow when you install vinyl plank flooring:

• Before you lay down your vinyl floor, check to make sure the subfloor is level and dry. The easiest way to check for moisture in the subfloor is to install one tile and leave it there for three days.
• After that time has passed, try to pull on the tile. If it pulls up easily, then your subfloor has too much moisture.
• Either let the area dry or use a special adhesive to install the rest of your floor.

When installing vinyl flooring, only use the pre-glued tiles or an adhesive specifically made for vinyl. After installation is complete, don’t use the floor until it has dried completely.

Vinyl Floor Maintenance

Vinyl flooring needs little maintenance outside of regular cleaning. Simply sweep dust and debris using a broom, and then use a damp mop and mild soap to clean the surface.