January 31, 2022

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When it comes to flooring, you’re never short of choices! Be it carpet tiles, wood planks or vinyl tiles, there is always an array for you to pick from. Traditional carpet or hardwood continue to be used in spaces but vinyl flooring has been the ultimate winner over the past seasons due to its advanced manufacturing technology. This makes it suitable for nearly any environment, but let us tell you why!

What is vinyl flooring?

To put it simply, vinyl flooring is a type of synthetic flooring. It is composed of several layers sandwiched together to form a highly durable, practical yet affordable flooring solution for both residential and commercial spaces. 

There are two main types of vinyl solutions: Vinyl planks and vinyl sheets. Although they are manufactured using the same materials, they are constructed differently. For example, vinyl planks produce more wood-like texture while vinyl sheets resemble tiles. Here are three options of vinyl flooring to consider: 

1. Engineered Vinyl Plank (EVP) Flooring

If you prefer traditional wood finishes or stone finishes, Engineered Vinyl Plank (EVP) is something to keep an eye out for. They are cost-effective, durable and absolutely easy to install!

Essentially, EVP is a floating flooring, which means that it is not glued onto the floor but rather interlocks with each other like a puzzle. It is also one of the few floor types that are truly waterproof, making it perfect for areas like the kitchen or bathroom.

2. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring

Similarly to EVP, Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring is made to recreate the same natural finish while being much more affordable. However, they are slightly thinner, reducing its durability and waterproofing. Additionally, LVP will be glued onto the floor rather than having an interlocking system.

3. Vinyl Sheet Flooring

Vinyl sheet flooring comes in a large roll to be installed as one big sheet with no visible seams. Designed specifically to see very high traffic and withstand damages and array of styles to choose from, vinyl sheet flooring has been the cost-effective option for commercial spaces in Australia.

Wood Flooring vs. LVP Flooring 

Wood flooring is a classic, permanent flooring that has the appearance of wood, whether it is made out of natural wood or synthetic lumber. The variety in textures and styles paired together with their ageless quality, wooden flooring are great long-term investments. It also provides good acoustics within your space, reducing hollow sounds and unwanted vibrations. However, they do have heavier drawbacks:

1. Cost

For its quality and benefits, wooden flooring comes at a price – a high one at that. These solid wood flooring cost more than other flooring solutions. They can be seen as cost-effective in the long-run due to its durability, but there is still the cost of up-front payment.

2. Easily Damaged

Wood, in nature, tends to damage easily when faced with accidental spills, constant change in weather or temperature or even stains. This is why wood flooring would not be recommended in areas of high moisture such as bathrooms or kitchens.

3. Maintenance

Depending on the traffic flow, wooden floorings need regular refining due to scratches, scuffs and other wear and tear accidents that may get overlooked overtime. Not only will cost be a factor, but so is time. Having to move objects out of the room, getting the proper chemicals needed to refine, and the dust and noise are just some aspects to take note of when planning for the refinement.

4. Noise

Unlike carpet and other flooring solutions, wood flooring does not absorb noise. Hence, it will be a much noisier option if you are one to dislike the evident stomping, clacking or sliding of footsteps. 

What are the pros and cons of luxury vinyl plank flooring?

Although wooden flooring may be the classic option, LVP offers similar finishes with better benefits. When it comes to LVP flooring, its advancements have made it notorious for both commercial and residential spaces. Here are 10 reasons why you should be choosing vinyl flooring over real wood:

1. They are affordable 

2. They are durable

3. They require low-maintenance

4. They are water-resistant

5. They are stain-resistant

6. They are comfortable for your feet

7. They are aesthetically pleasing

8. They are easy to install

9. They are sound absorbent

10. So much variety!

Things to be aware of with Vinyl Flooring

Although vinyl flooring may be a near-perfect option, there are several drawbacks you would still need to consider before installing them into their home.

  • Not eco-friendly as they are a plastic derivative and difficult to recycle. Fortunately, there are some which are made from sustainable and recycled materials so do make sure to go with a reliable flooring choice.
  • They are prone to sun-fading overtime if used in over-exposed areas.
  • Although individual tiles can be easily replaced, they cannot be fixed when damaged.
  • Unlike wood or stone, the value of vinyl is considerably lower.

What factors to consider when making your choice?

If you’re still reading vinyl flooring reviews and feeling indecisive, let this section be your guide. Choosing the right flooring for your home can be seen as an investment for you and your loved ones’ well-being. Hence, there must be several factors to consider to make the best flooring decision that is enjoyable for all.

1) Cost

2) Style

3) Health

4) Durability

5) Value

While those are just some of the many areas you should be pondering on, you should also ask yourself these three questions:

– Where in your home are you planning to replace your flooring?

– What are your priorities when it comes to your flooring?

– What mood do you plan on going for?

– Is your space high traffic?

If you ask yourself these questions, you’ll be surprised to find that vinyl flooring solutions are the best option for your space!   

So, which is the best option?

This very much depends on where you wish to install your flooring. For water-heavy environments, it is best to opt for EVP or LVP while commercial spaces would be better off with vinyl sheet flooring due to its high-traffic. The slight difference between EVP and LVP is that EVP is slightly more durable and easier to install. Ultimately, vinyl flooring will be able to solve any of your flooring needs.

Are Vinyl Planks worth it?

Very much so! To lessen your worries on overall costing and maintenance, vinyl flooring has become the best choice. For any more queries regarding why you should pick vinyl flooring as your next flooring solution, contact Jumps Floor Coverings. Here, we offer an extensive range of vinyl planks and tiles that can replicate the natural appearance of timber or stone floorings.