The right flooring for your home should serve its utility, comfortable to stand and walk on, and is appealing to the eyes. Vinyl has come a long way, being a popular choice among homeowners. Aside from being budget-friendly, it is now printed in various colours and patterns. In addition, vinyl is more durable and resilient. But before deciding on installing one, read this guide to have adequate knowledge about vinyl flooring.
Vinyl flooring is a versatile option that can be installed in almost any room of your home. Its durability, moisture resistance, and easy maintenance make it a popular choice for high-traffic areas and rooms prone to spills and moisture. Here are some prime areas where vinyl flooring is commonly installed.
The kitchen is a busy area with frequent spills and high foot traffic, making it an ideal location for vinyl flooring. It is also moisture-resistant, which means it can withstand occasional spills and splashes from cooking or cleaning.
Bathrooms are often exposed to water and high humidity, making them a challenging environment for some flooring types. However, vinyl flooring is moisture-resistant and can be an excellent option for a bathroom.
Basements are prone to moisture issues, and vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for this space because it can resist moisture and humidity. Vinyl tiles and planks are also easy to install, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking for a DIY flooring option.
Like the kitchen, laundry rooms experience a lot of traffic and spills, which makes vinyl flooring a practical choice for this area.
Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for commercial spaces such as retail stores, offices, and restaurants. It’s durable and easy to maintain, making it ideal for areas with high foot traffic and frequent spills.
Vinyl flooring can be installed in almost any room of your home, but it’s important to consider the level of foot traffic and moisture in the space before making a final decision.
Vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its many benefits. Here are the main selling points of vinyl flooring that make it an attractive option for homeowners:
Choosing the design of your vinyl flooring can be an exciting process. There are several factors to consider, including colour, pattern, texture, size, and shape.
The colour of your vinyl flooring can set the tone for your room. Neutral colours like beige and grey create a calming and inviting atmosphere, while bolder colours like red or blue add energy and vibrancy. When choosing a colour, consider the overall colour scheme of your room and choose a colour that complements it.
Vinyl flooring comes in a wide range of patterns, from classic wood and stone looks to more unique designs like geometric patterns or floral prints. A patterned vinyl floor can add interest and texture to a room and can be used to create a focal point or accent. When choosing a pattern, consider the size of your room and the other patterns and textures in your decor.
Vinyl flooring can be made with various textures, from smooth and glossy to textured and embossed. A textured vinyl floor can mimic the look of natural materials like wood or stone and add depth and dimension to your room. When choosing a texture, consider the amount of foot traffic in your room and the overall style of your decor.
Vinyl flooring can come in tiles or planks of varying sizes and shapes. Smaller tiles can create a classic and traditional look, while larger planks can create a more modern and sleek feel. When choosing the size and shape of your vinyl flooring, consider the size of your room and the overall style of your decor.
Depending on the installation method, vinyl flooring can be laid in different patterns and configurations, such as herringbone, chevron, or diagonal. This can add interest and visual appeal to your floor. When choosing an installation method, consider the overall style of your decor and the look you are trying to achieve.
There are caveats you must consider before installing it in your home.
It is important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your individual needs and preferences before deciding.
Vinyl tiles and sheets are the most traditional and affordable types of vinyl flooring. They are typically sold in 12-inch or 18-inch squares and can be installed with adhesive or as a floating floor. Vinyl tiles and sheets come in a wide range of colours and patterns, making them a versatile option for any room.
Luxury vinyl tiles (LVTs) are a higher-end type of vinyl flooring designed to mimic the look and feel of natural materials like hardwood or stone. LVTs can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including planks or tiles, and can be installed with adhesive or as a floating floor. They are durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain.
Vinyl planks are a type of LVT that is designed to look like hardwood planks. They come in various sizes and can be installed with adhesive or as a floating floor. Vinyl planks are a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood flooring without the high cost or maintenance.
WPC (wood plastic composite) and SPC (stone plastic composite) are newer types of vinyl flooring that are designed to be more durable and resilient than traditional vinyl flooring. They are made with a waterproof core and a rigid backing, which makes them more resistant to dents and scratches. WPC and SPC vinyl flooring can come in a variety of colours, patterns, and textures.
When choosing a type of vinyl flooring, consider your budget, style preferences, and the level of durability and water resistance you need for your space. It’s also important to consider the installation method, as some types of vinyl flooring may require professional installation.
The installation process for vinyl flooring will depend on the type of vinyl you choose, as well as the size and layout of the room.
The glue-down method is typically used for vinyl tiles or sheets, and it involves applying adhesive to the subfloor and then placing the vinyl tiles or sheets onto the adhesive. This method provides a more permanent and stable installation, but removing or replacing the vinyl later can be more difficult.
The floating method is typically used for luxury vinyl tiles, vinyl planks, or WPC/SPC vinyl flooring. It involves laying the vinyl directly over the subfloor without any adhesive. Instead, the planks or tiles are held together with a locking system or adhesive strips. This method is generally easier and quicker to install, allowing for easier removal or replacement of the vinyl in the future.
Before installing vinyl flooring, it’s important to prepare the subfloor properly. This may involve cleaning the subfloor, levelling uneven areas, and adding a moisture barrier to prevent water damage. It’s also important to acclimate the vinyl flooring to the room’s temperature and humidity levels for a few days before installation.
If you’re uncomfortable installing vinyl flooring yourself, hiring a professional installer is recommended to ensure a proper and safe installation.
Maintaining vinyl flooring is generally straightforward, and it can last for many years with proper care. Here are some tips for maintaining your vinyl flooring:
By following these tips, you can keep your vinyl flooring looking clean and new for many years to come.
If you are looking for an interior design firm in Singapore that can help you create a stunning and functional living space with vinyl flooring, look no further than Style+Space. We can help you choose the perfect vinyl flooring for your home, reflecting your unique style and personality. Contact us today to learn more about our vinyl flooring options and interior design services.
