Vinyl floor is a good, durable, and affordable flooring material for homes. If you are getting ready to install new vinyl flooring, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration when choosing the exact vinyl flooring that you will use in your home.
Factor #1: Underlayment
Most vinyl floors are designed to be applied directly to whatever type of flooring situation you already have established in your home. However, if your subfloor is not in good condition, you will want to choose vinyl flooring that will work well when it needs to be attached to an underlayment material instead of your subfloor.
Some vinyl flooring comes with its own underlayment that it is designed to be used with. For example, you can find cork underlayment that is designed to provide stability. Or you can use an underlayment that is designed to help minimize sound absorption. Using underlayment is not a bad thing; make sure you choose an underlayment that provides you with the support you need and will work with the vinyl flooring material you choose.
Factor #2: Installation Method
Second, you need to determine what type of installation method you want to use with the vinyl flooring. Some flooring comes with an adhesive already on the boards' back, so all you must do is peel off the back layer and put the flooring in place. Other vinyl floors require you to apply an adhesive on your own before putting it in place.
You can also choose between flooring that sticks in place or made to click and lock together with the flooring pieces around it. Flooring that sticks in place is easier to install, but the click and lock method can create a sturdier floor.
Factor #3: Thickness
With thickness levels, you need to consider two different things. First, you need to determine how thick the other flooring in your home is. For example, if you are putting down vinyl flooring in your living room and your dining room is adjacent to your living room, you will not want the height of the floor in your living room to be taller than your dining room.
Second, you are going to want to consider how the floor will wear. Generally, the thicker it is, the more wear and tear it can take, and the longer it will last overall. The thickness you choose should be a balance between wear and style needs for your home.
Factor #4: Warranty
Finally, you should carefully consider the warranty that comes with the flooring. The warranty generally doesn't cover flood, fire, and intentional abuse or damage by cleaning products. The warranty should cover the overall quality of the floors. Look for a warranty that lasts for at least a few decades; that is a sign of a good quality product.
When choosing vinyl flooring for your home, you need to carefully consider the thickness and application method, as well as how it will work with the subflooring or underlayment in your home. From there, be sure to choose a pattern and style that compliments your home.
For more information about vinyl flooring, contact a flooring service.
