Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide

Vinyl flooring comes in a vast array of colors, patterns, textures, and design options. Vinyl is affordable, easy to clean, resists moisture and can be used in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Vinyl comes in large sheets, individual tiles or planks for ease of installation. Vinyl flooring has a variety of material configurations enhancing durability and comfort, and also has some cushion which provides added comfort. The right vinyl flooring can handle heavy foot traffic, but be aware it can fade in long term direct exposure to sunlight.

Material

Rotovinyl: The decorative pattern is printed directly on the vinyl and protected with a clear wear layer over the top.

Inlaid: Vinyl particles or chips are inlaid onto a vinyl backing to create a pattern that will not wear away.

Sheet Vinyl: Sheet vinyl is the most common type of vinyl flooring and is highly moisture resistant due to its lack of seams. Sheet vinyl comes in three types: homogenous, which is consistent throughout, inlaid, which has embedded particles of vinyl, and layered composite, which has four layers consisting of a base, urethane filler, decorative layer, and a top layer of clear vinyl.

Vinyl Tile: Vinyl tile comes in a wide variety of styles and colors and is easy to repair by simply replacing the damaged tile. There are three types of vinyl tile: solid vinyl sheet, inlaid tiles made of embedded vinyl particles, and composition comprised of composite vinyl layers.

No Wax Layer: The vinyl design layer is protected with an easy to clean, stain resistant coating that never needs waxing.

Urethane: Urethane is more durable than a no wax layer, as well as stain resistant and easier to clean. Urethane never needs polishing and will stay looking new longer.

Enhanced Urethane: The most protective wear layer, taking the protection of urethane and adding more durability, stain resistance, and scuff resistance.

Installation

Be sure to install appropriate underlayment prior to your vinyl flooring installation to hide imperfections of your subfloor. Make sure you get the recommended glue with sealant for your specific vinyl and application area.

Please come into our showroom and see the many examples we have on display. Our experts will help you determine the right vinyl floor for your needs.