Shopping for flooring online can be a rewarding experience, offering you a range of choices for your home. Many people choose LVT & vinyl flooring because they combine style with practicality so whether you’re looking for something that mimics the look of wood or stone, vinyl flooring can offer aesthetic appeal without the high cost.
Understanding the different types of vinyl flooring however can help you make an informed decision, as online stores provide a vast selection so you’ll want to ensure you find the right match for you.
When browsing, consider factors like durability, design, and installation methods to select the best option for your living space.
Material Comparison: Luxury Vinyl vs. Standard Vinyl
When choosing vinyl flooring, it’s important to understand the differences between luxury vinyl and standard vinyl.
Luxury vinyl flooring is known for its durability and realistic appearance. It has multiple layers, including a protective top layer that is resistant to scratches and stains. This makes luxury vinyl an attractive choice for high-traffic areas.
Standard vinyl, on the other hand, is generally thinner and more flexible. It typically comes in sheets or tiles. This type is great for areas that need a cheaper flooring option but might not hold up as well in busy environments.
Another factor between the two is design variety. Luxury vinyl offers a wide range, often mimicking wood or stone whilst standard vinyl might not have as many high-end design options, but it’s still available in various colours and patterns.
By knowing these differences, you can make a more informed decision about which type of vinyl flooring best suits your space.
Understanding Wear Layers and Thickness
When choosing vinyl flooring, it’s important to consider the wear layer. This layer protects the flooring from scratches and stains with a standard wear layer thickness being between 8-12 mil. Those with children and/or pets should consider a thicker layer for added durability with wear layers of 20mil or more being ideal for high-traffic areas.
The wear layer’s thickness can influence the floor’s lifespan, ranging from 3 to over 20 years. The quality of the vinyl and your household’s activity level also play a role in durability. Remember, a thicker wear layer usually means a longer-lasting floor.
Check for Water Resistance Ratings
Another feature you’ll want to check is the floorings water resistance rating. Vinyl flooring often comes as either water-resistant or waterproof. This difference affects how it handles spills and moisture. Water-resistant flooring can handle small spills but may not be suitable for areas with high moisture..
For places like kitchens or bathrooms, you might prefer waterproof vinyl flooring. This type offers better protection against water damage and help prevents warping or other issues caused by excess moisture.
Different products have various levels of water protection so it’s always best to check this feature in the product description when shopping online. Doing so will help you make a confident decision about your flooring investment.
Installation Options: Glue Down vs. Click Lock
When choosing vinyl flooring, you’ll also want to think about the installation process. Two common options are glue down and click lock. Knowing the difference between these options can help you decide which fits your needs best.
Glue-down vinyl involves using adhesive to attach the tiles to the subfloor. This method provides a stable and permanent finish and is often recommended for areas with heavy foot traffic or larger spaces.
On the other hand, click-lock flooring involves connecting tiles through an interlocking system. This option is popular for DIY projects as it doesn’t require glue and is usually easier to install. It’s beneficial in spaces where quick installation is needed.
Both types can be durable and waterproof. If you enjoy DIY projects, you might prefer click-lock vinyl but If you want a strong, professional finish for high-traffic areas, glue-down vinyl might be better.
Research warranty details
The next thing that should be considered is the different warranties. This is applicable to both the different types but also the suppliers you may be considering. Look for details on the length of coverage and what it includes. A longer warranty can signal quality and support for your purchase.
Pay attention to the specifics, like coverage for wear, staining, or other defects as some warranties will only cover residential use, while others may include light commercial settings. Ensure that the warranty of the flooring your considering matches your needs and expectations.
It’s also wise to review any conditions or requirements related to the warranty as these could include proper installation methods or maintenance steps you need to follow.
Conclusion
When ordering vinyl flooring online, pay attention to the type you choose, whether plank, tile, or sheet as each has its own benefits and uses.
Look for features like waterproofing, thickness, and installation method as these factors greatly affect performance and ease of use and consider checking product reviews and requesting samples if possible to allow you to see and feel the material to help you make a better decision.
Stay within your budget while balancing quality and style. This helps you get the flooring you love without overspending.
