10 Things You Need to Know Before Buying Vinyl Flooring

When it comes to selecting the perfect floor for your home, vinyl flooring offers a wealth of benefits. As a versatile, durable, and affordable option, it's no wonder that many homeowners are turning to vinyl to transform their living spaces. 

However, before you invest in this popular flooring material, it's crucial to know what to look for when buying vinyl flooring. From understanding the types of vinyl flooring available, such as sheet vinyl and Luxury Vinyl Tiles, to considering factors like water resistance and comfort, you'll be well-equipped to make the right choice for your home.

Here are 10 things to consider when buying vinyl flooring to ensure you make the right choice…

1. Decoding the Types of Vinyl Flooring

When choosing vinyl flooring, it's essential to understand the different types available. You essentially have two options – LVT and sheet vinyl.

LVT vinyl flooring benefits from a thick, multi-layered design, much like laminate. It is available in click and glue-down options, providing exemplary durability and water resistance. The floors are supplied in plank or tile format, giving a solid feel underfoot. Luxury vinyl plank flooring features a thicker wear layer, and are more versatile than sheet vinyl, allowing you to create unique patterns and designs, such as herringbone or parquet.

Vinyl sheet flooring comes in large rolls and provides a seamless look. It requires a glue-down installation method for larger areas like living rooms, but can be looselayed in smaller areas such as bathrooms, and a lack of joints means it benefits from excellent water resistance. While it does feature a thinner wear layer than LVT, it still boasts impressive durability wherever it is installed. Compared to LVT, it can also be softer and warmer underfoot. 

2. Navigating the Vinyl Flooring Installation Process

A key benefit of vinyl flooring is its easy installation process. There are three main methods available, including glue-down, click-lock, and loose lay. Glue-down installation involves adhering the vinyl directly to the subfloor, providing a stable and long-lasting result. It is the more time-consuming process, and depending upon the size of the room, you may need a professional to help you install it, but will can improve the longevity of the floor.

Click-lock vinyl flooring, also known as floating vinyl, uses interlocking edges to secure the planks or tiles together, requiring no adhesives. It is renowned for its fast, simple process that anyone can follow. You won’t need any DIY skills to fit these floors yourself. 

Loose lay vinyl flooring relies on friction and the material's weight to stay in place, making it simple to install and replace if needed. All three methods have their benefits, but click vinyl tends to be the most popular choice for homeowners. 

Understanding the different methods will help you choose the most suitable installation process to suit your skills and budget.

3. Ensuring Durability and Lifespan of Your Vinyl Flooring

The durability and lifespan of vinyl flooring depend on the wear layer. This is the top layer of the floor, ultimately protecting it against damage. A thicker wear layer offers better resistance to scratches, dents, and fading. As mentioned earlier, LVT floors tend to have a thicker wear layer than sheet vinyl, but exceptions exist. 

When choosing vinyl flooring for the home, consider the expected foot traffic in the area and opt for a product with a suitable wear layer thickness. Luxury vinyl plank flooring, for example, is an excellent option for high-traffic areas.

Most vinyl floors can withstand spills and moisture without warping or swelling. However, the water resistance rating of the specific floor you want to install in the home is still worth checking. 

4. Comfort and Soundproofing

The material's composition provides a softer, warmer feel underfoot than tile or hardwood. It can also help reduce noise transmission, making it ideal for multi-story homes, or rooms with high foot traffic. 

You will typically find sheet vinyl quieter and softer than LVT flooring. This is down to the felt or foam backing included in its design. This provides a cushioned feel and reduces the amount of sound produced as you walk over the floor. 

5. Is the Vinyl Floor Waterproof?

One of the significant benefits of vinyl flooring is its water resistance, making it a great option for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, and cellars. However, not all vinyl flooring is entirely waterproof. Sheet vinyl, for example, is highly water resistant but can become damaged over time when exposed to long-standing humidity. LVT floors, on the other hand, do tend to feature a fully waterproof design; check out some of our waterproof LVT range today. 

6. Vinyl Flooring Care

One of the best advantages of vinyl flooring is its low maintenance requirements. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional mopping are sufficient to keep the floors clean and in impeccable condition. 

Unlike hardwood or carpet, vinyl floors don't need refinishing or deep cleaning, saving time and effort. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for specific cleaning products and correct methods to ensure the floor's longevity.

7. Weighing the Environmental Impact of Vinyl Flooring

While vinyl flooring offers numerous benefits, it's essential to consider its environmental impact. Traditional vinyl flooring is made from non-renewable resources and can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your home. However, advancements in manufacturing have led to more eco-friendly options, such as low-VOC and phthalate-free vinyl products. 

When evaluating vinyl flooring, look for certifications indicating reduced environmental impact and improved indoor air quality. At Best4Flooring, we only supply low-VOC vinyl flooring. We also offer top-brand vinyl floors that specialise in eco-friendly designs.

8. Design and Style Options

Vinyl flooring has many design options, letting you personalise your home's aesthetic. The possibilities are endless, from realistic wood and stone textures to bold patterns and colours. 

Many vinyl floors also feature embossed or textured surfaces, adding depth and authenticity to the design. Consider your home's existing décor and your personal preferences when selecting the ideal vinyl flooring style.

9. Breaking Down the Cost of Vinyl Flooring

Compared to other flooring options, vinyl flooring is often a much more affordable choice. This makes it an attractive choice for homeowners on a budget. The cost per square foot varies depending on the type, quality, and brand of vinyl flooring you choose. Our sheet vinyl starts from as little as £6.99 per m2 with real wood effect designs like Atlas Cushion Vinyl Flooring.

Luxury vinyl plank flooring, for example, may have a higher price tag due to its enhanced durability and realistic appearance. However, even with added expenses such as installation, vinyl flooring is typically still a great value, cost-effective solution. Our LVT vinyl floor starts from £16.99 per m2, to our ultra-premium flooring options ranging to £70.49.

10. Weighing Up the Pros and Cons

When deciding whether it is the right choice for your home, you need to weigh up the pros and cons of vinyl flooring. Its durability, water resistance, comfort, and soundproofing make it a great option for many situations. The wide range of design choices and easy maintenance further contribute to its appeal. 

However, it's essential to consider factors like environmental impact and cost when deciding. By carefully evaluating all aspects, you can select the perfect vinyl flooring solution that meets your needs and complements your home.

So, there are 10 things to look for when buying vinyl flooring. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly flooring experts. We are always happy to provide advice where needed. 

Explore our wide range of luxury vinyl tiles and sheet vinyl flooring to find the perfect option for you.