For much less than the cost of hardwood floors, vinyl plank flooring can provide a beautiful look for your home with little maintenance required. Though it may have pros and cons, vinyl plank flooring is made from several layers of a strong plastic material called polyvinyl chloride or PVC. The result is a floor that looks like it is made of hardwood but is easier to clean and much more resistant to damage from scratching, warping or staining.
Advertisement
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Flooring Contractors
Free, No-commitment Estimates
Find a ContractorLet’s take a closer look to see what the best vinyl plank flooring options are for your needs.
There are three categories of vinyl plank flooring (or VPF): luxury VPF, rigid core VPF and waterproof VPF. Here is a look at the different types:
This type of flooring lives up to its name with an authentic wood look and superior construction. It is made of four layers that include a waterproof core plus a damage-resistant layer on top. The multiple layers create a surface that is not only beautiful but also comfortable to walk on.
This type is built to last thanks to a strong composite corner. Because of its durability, this option is a good choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, entryways and open-concept homes.
This flooring often has features similar to both its luxury and rigid core counterparts, but it is also completely waterproof. It is the ideal option for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and other areas in a home where spills and splashes are common.
High-traffic areas are not only used often, but they are seen often. That’s why you’ll want a surface with a rigid core that can hold up to foot traffic and also maintain a beautiful appearance year after year. This is an especially good option for homes that feature an open-concept floor plan.
Pros
Cons
Pets are beloved members of the household, but they can wreak havoc on our flooring. This floor can withstand plenty of scampering around.
Pros
Cons
Kitchens, bathrooms and utility spaces (like laundry rooms) are high-traffic areas that are also more prone to spills and messes. Flooring in these spots must be waterproof and easy to clean, making vinyl plank flooring an easy decision.
Pros
Cons
This waterproof vinyl plank flooring brand by Home Depot is a popular choice for budget-minded homeowners. It comes in a variety of different design and color options so you can choose the look you want most for your home.
Pros
Cons
If you thought you needed a professional to install your new luxury vinyl plank flooring, think again. Some brands offer click-together styles that make it much easier for you to DIY and be thrilled with the results.
Pros
Cons
Advertisement
Using your home's equity is an easy way to fund your new floors!
Get prequalified in minutes by clicking on your state.
Learn MoreHow to install your vinyl plank flooring is very easy to install. Since they are considered floating floors, glue and nails are not required. Plus, your own weight will keep them in place. Typically, you can install vinyl plank flooring in a day or so. Simply pick up a few essential tools, clear your subfloors, plan your layout and accurately space your planks.
Not only is vinyl plank flooring easy to install on your own, but they are designed to resemble hardwood floors without the hassle of natural wood. They are also water-resistant, stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
Although there are many pros to vinyl plank flooring, there are some cons to consider. For instance, due to its adhesive, vinyl plank flooring is not always easy to remove. They also can be inconsistent when installing due to the thickness of the vinyl planks.
Regardless of what brand you choose for your vinyl plank flooring, or where it’s going to be installed, there are several key factors that you must first consider:
To maintain the look of your vinyl plank flooring for many years, make sure you choose a material that can withstand foot traffic from both humans and pets. Many different types of VPF promise a tough outer layer, but be sure to choose planks that can withstand scratches and other damage.
Just as a plusher carpet feels nicer underfoot, thicker vinyl plank flooring also provides comfort. VPF thickness is measured in mils, which is not millimeters, but the degree of thickness. The more mils, the more the vinyl planks can hold up to pressure and scratching. For household use, 12 mil is a common choice in flooring, though 20 mil is recommended if you’ve got pets or heavier foot traffic. For commercial applications, 28 mil is often used for even greater durability and support.
Vinyl planks come in a wide range of widths from 4 to 12 inches wide, with most being between 6 and 9 inches. If the room you are installing the flooring in is large, you can go with a wider plank for an attractive aesthetic–plus, you’ll need fewer planks to complete the job. However, if the room is small, you’ll want to go with a narrower plank to make the space seem bigger.
Room Type
Vinyl plank flooring is an easy-to-clean, cost-effective option that can be used in various rooms throughout your home. Whether it’s a living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, basement, home office or entryway, vinyl plank flooring offers durability and style to suit all kinds of spaces.
Warranty
When shopping for vinyl plank flooring, it’s essential to know what kind of warranty you’re getting. Vinyl plank flooring warranties can cover different aspects of the product, including the wear layer, structural integrity, water resistance and installation. For instance, a wear layer warranty can ensure protection against scratches, stains, fading and wear for a specified period.
Tips for Installing Vinyl Plank Flooring
Installing vinyl plank flooring is ideal for anyone who wants to get the look of hardwood with the durability of laminate. It’s also an affordable way to update your home. Here are a few tips to make sure you get the most out of your vinyl plank flooring:
Level Subfloor
Laying vinyl planks can be a fun and easy DIY project for the whole family. Before you begin, however, it’s crucial to ensure that your subfloor is level and smooth. Any unevenness or imperfections in the subfloor will affect the final result of your installation. Take the time to properly prepare the subfloor by addressing any high spots and filling in low areas to have a flat surface.
Leave Expansion Gaps
Vinyl plank flooring can expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity. To accommodate these movements and prevent buckling or warping, it’s essential to leave small expansion gaps around the room’s perimeter and at transitions between different areas. It is recommended to review the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine the gap size needed for your specific flooring.
Practice Interlocking
When you’re installing vinyl plank flooring, it’s important to practice the click-and-lock interlocking system before you begin. This will help you understand the process and ensure a seamless and secure fit. Plus, mixing and matching planks from different boxes is recommended to achieve a natural look.
Vinyl flooring is a popular option for your home due to its durability, flexibility and easy maintenance. However, properly caring for it is essential to keep it in excellent condition. Basic maintenance of vinyl flooring includes regularly sweeping or vacuuming with a soft-bristled brush attachment to remove dust, dirt and debris. For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a damp mop on the floor with a mild detergent.
Vinyl flooring comes with a built-in protective wear layer. Therefore, avoiding harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbers while deep cleaning your vinyl flooring is crucial. This protective layer does not require waxing or varnishing and it does not do well with steam cleaning. Also, refraining from applying direct heat to vinyl floors is essential to prevent discoloration and melting.
Not to mention, everyday maintenance, like promptly cleaning up spills and messes, attaching felt pads under furniture legs and placing mats or rugs in high-traffic areas, is essential to maintaining the pristine condition of your vinyl flooring. These steps will help maintain the pristine appearance and longevity of your vinyl flooring.
Opting for DIY vinyl plank flooring installation can be attractive for individuals seeking to save money and time. Most vinyl plank flooring options can often be installed with click-and-lock mechanisms or as floating floors with glue or peel-and-stick methods. These installation processes are relatively straightforward for homeowners with basic handyman skills. Additionally, DIY installation offers greater flexibility since they can be completed at your own pace.
On the other hand, hiring a professional for vinyl plank flooring installation offers several advantages. Professional installers have the expertise and experience to ensure the job is done correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of errors or damage. They also have access to specialized tools and equipment that may not be available to DIYers, allowing for a more streamlined installation process.
Although DIY vinyl flooring installation can save up to 50% more than hiring a professional, the investment is often worth it for those seeking a flawless finish and long-lasting results. Professionals can also perform additional tasks like trimming and leveling the subfloor, potentially justifying the higher installation cost for complex vinyl flooring projects.
When installing new flooring, it is crucial to consider future buyers’ specific preferences and carefully assess the potential return on investment. Although vinyl plank flooring may not enhance the value of a home to the same extent as premium flooring materials like hardwood or natural stone, it can still favorably impact the overall attractiveness of your home and be appealing to potential buyers.
Vinyl plank flooring mimics the look of expensive hardwood flooring, but is lower in both price and maintenance. There are many options on the market, so be sure to choose the best vinyl plank flooring to suit your residential or commercial flooring needs.
Advertisement
Compare Quotes From Top-rated Local Flooring Contractors
Free, No-commitment Estimates
Find a ContractorWith high quality products and considerate service, we will work together with you to enhance your business and improve the efficiency. Please don't hesitate to contact us to get more details of Felt Back Vinyl Flooring.