Your choice of flooring doesn’t just affect a room’s aesthetics but also its longevity and functionality. If you’re looking for something durable yet versatile, vinyl click flooring is a popular option. But the only way to make an informed decision is to learn everything you need to know about this type of flooring.
Keep reading to discover the advantages, style options, installation process, and maintenance needs of vinyl-click floors.
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What is Vinyl Click Flooring?
Made from Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), vinyl click flooring gets its name from its click-and-lock system. This ease of installation is exactly what makes it one of the more affordable flooring options. The vinyl planks or tiles interlock securely, so you can even install it yourself.
Its construction is made up of multiple layers. The top layer is wear-resistant, followed by a realistic design and stable core layers. Finally, the backing layer is moisture-resistant.
Advantages of Vinyl Click Flooring
Most contractors recommend this type of flooring for many reasons. Here’s why it’s a popular choice:
- Easy to Install: Vinyl click flooring gets its name from its installation method: click and lock. The tongue-and-groove edge on each tile allows you to install the flooring without any adhesive or fastener. All you need is a utility knife and a rubber mallet.
- Affordable: Since this type of flooring takes no time to install, you can even install it yourself. You’ll save tons of money on professional installation. Plus, the material itself is one of the more affordable options on the market.
- Versatile: Just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean you need to compromise on looks. Vinyl click tiles come in tons of different design options. You’ll find options that imitate slate, oak, concrete, stone, and pine floors.
- Durable: If durability is your top priority in flooring materials, vinyl click is the way to go. That means it’s ideal for high-traffic areas in your home, such as the kitchen or living space. This type of flooring tends to last 10 to 25 years or even longer in low-traffic areas.
- Water Resistant: The water resistance of vinyl click flooring is the main contributor to its durability. Its backing layer is moisture-resistant, preventing mould and mildew buildup under the floors. That means you can install it in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
- Low Maintenance: The best part about vinyl click tiles and planks? They require little to no maintenance. In fact, you’ll need to do nothing more than regular sweeping and mopping.
Installation Process
The ease of installation is definitely the selling point of vinyl-click planks and tiles. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to installing these tiles:
- First, you must prep the subfloor by cleaning, drying, and levelling it.
- If the subfloor requires it, install the underlayment for extra cushioning and moisture resistance.
- Finally, you can start laying down the tiles. The click-and-lock system prevents any need for adhesives or fasteners.
- You can cut and shorten the tiles with a utility knife and rubber mallet if needed.
- Once you’ve laid down the tiles, make sure all seams are securely connected.
Expert Tip: The installation process may seem easy, and you may be lured to DIY. However, we recommend seeking professional help because you would have to do it all over again if not done right.
Maintenance and Care
Aside from being easy to install, vinyl-click floors are also easy to maintain. On a daily basis, you’ll only need to sweep it to get rid of dust and debris.
You can also mop it occasionally to keep it in pristine condition. Make sure not to mop it too often since vinyl can be vulnerable to water damage over time. To avoid scratches, we recommend cushioning furniture legs with pads.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that vinyl click flooring is affordable, durable, and versatile. It takes no time to install and even less maintenance to keep it in top shape. The best part is its water-resistant construction, allowing you to install it in moisture-prone spaces in your home.
So, if you’re considering upgrading your space, look into vinyl click tiles and planks. They may be the perfect flooring solution you’ve been looking for.
