Vinyl FAQ
The biggest variable to consider when choosing vinyl is the thickness, and it will pay you to invest in the thickest vinyl floor you can afford. The very thickest grades of vinyl offer the substance and durability of laminates without the vulnerability to water. They also offer dimensional detailing that can mimic hardwood and ceramic very well. Thicker vinyl’s will also do a better job of hiding seams and other surface imperfections in the subfloor.
Vinyl is an excellent choice for homes with pets and children because it is so easy to clean and resists stains. It will hold up in muddy entryways and in kitchens where frequent messes occur. It requires little care once it’s installed, making it a forgiving floor that’s easy to live with. Vinyl is also relatively soft and sound absorbent, providing a comfortable surface for playing and helping to quiet the chaos in your home.
Laminate floors are stiffer then vinyl floors because they are made with a hard wood core, so laminates hide imperfections in the subfloor better. They also have a harder wear layer, so laminates resist scratching and denting better than vinyl. The wood core makes laminates more vulnerable to damage from water and other liquid spills then vinyl flooring, however. Because vinyl is made completely of vinyl, which is water resistant, it will not cup or warp when exposed to water.
You can install vinyl anywhere in your home because of its superior water resistance and durable construction. It is suitable for kitchens, baths, entryways, basements, mudrooms, laundry rooms and more.
Vinyl requires only regular sweeping and damp mopping to keep it looking its best. Spills clean up very easily with a damp cloth, even if you neglect to get to them right away.