Vinyl Floors Archives - Page 5 of 7

Vinyl Floors
May 14, 2020

Vinyl Sheet May Still Be The Right Flooring For You

What mental image is conjured up when someone mentions vinyl sheet flooring?

For a lot of people, they remember the yellowing, peeling flooring in their mother’s or grandmother’s kitchen. With very few choices, they installed the latest look. And because of budgeting, kept it in place for years.

What is vinyl sheet?

Vinyl sheet is a flooring product that is often used in rooms where water-resistance, durability, and maintenance-free living is needed. Think kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Of course, it can be used anywhere, but those are often the most popular rooms.

Vinyl sheet comes in roll format, usually between 6 and 12 feet wide. Because of its width, it reduces the number of seams you’ll have once it’s fully installed in your room. That means there’s less risk for water to penetrate through to the subfloor. And with today’s technology, vinyl sheet can take on just about any look you demand.

Where should I install vinyl sheet inside my home?

The reason vinyl sheet is so versatile is because it can be installed just about anywhere you choose. It’s the perfect choice below-grade, in basements or ground-level living spaces where moisture and water may be an issue. It’s a great choice for main level living areas where high traffic is always a concern. It’s also great for upper level living in moisture-prone areas like the bathrooms and laundry rooms. But because of the demands stairs present, vinyl sheet isn’t recommended for installation.

Are there other names for vinyl sheet?

If you do your research and start looking at vinyl flooring options, you’ll likely find the same product goes by several different names. While vinyl sheet is something you’ll always find, you can also look for:

Luxury vinyl sheet – as you dive into your research, you’ll also see it sometimes referred to as LVS. Luxury vinyl is always a step up from the more traditional vinyl sheet product. It’s usually thicker, and has a deeper embedded pattern and design. If you’re looking for a natural design in vinyl sheet material, look no further than LVS. You’ll see realistic wood grains, natural stone patterns, and incredibly crisp prints that make this product look almost as good as the real thing.

Resilient flooring – the definition of resilience is: the ability to spring back into shape, recover quickly from difficulties. And that clearly defines vinyl flooring. This multi-layer product builds in toughness with a bit of give, making it forgivable if you drop something onto the floor. It stands up well to moisture. It offers stain-proof technology to hold up to many things your family can dish out. And if you take good care of it, it can continue to offer these qualities for years.

What are the benefits of vinyl sheet floors?

For a lot of homeowners, they are sold on vinyl sheet floors when learning about their durability and water-resistance, But that isn’t the only qualities that make these worth a second look.

Realistic patterns – with today’s technology, you can expect vinyl sheets to mimic just about any look you desire. While this is by no means a comprehensive list, you’ll find vinyl sheet mimicking:

Traditional hardwood
Weathered wood
Exotic hardwood
Distressed hardwood
Wood plank
Slate
Sandstone
Marble
Granite
Checkerboard pattern
Decorative patterns

If you can dream it, you can find it in vinyl sheet flooring.

Easy maintenance – vinyl sheet is even easier to care for than vinyl tile. Because it’s sheet format, you’ll have very few seams, which means wiping it clean will be a snap.

Durable – have we mentioned vinyl sheet’s durability? It can take all your family can dish out. And if you’re comparing it to other similar products like linoleum, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much more durable vinyl sheet really is.

Waterproof – one of the greatest things vinyl sheet brings to the market is the fact that it’s water-resistant. That means you can clean it with a mop and not have to worry about penetration. You don’t have to jump at spills, worrying how fast it will start to seep in. And for the small emergencies like an overflowing sink, or a dropped pan of water, you won’t need to be concerned about your flooring making it through. Keep in mind that nothing can handle standing water for days at a time. But for everyday household emergencies, vinyl sheet holds up just fine.

Easy to install, easy to replace – while vinyl sheet is more difficult to install than vinyl tile, you can still change up your decor in a day. And because it’s budget friendly, you won’t break the bank when you’re ready for a change.

How do you care for vinyl sheet flooring?

The good news is vinyl sheet flooring is one of the easiest to clean and maintain.

Wipe up spills – as with all flooring, timing is everything. When you see a spill, clean it up as quickly as you can. While vinyl does provide a protective coating to help ward off damage from standing water, it isn’t designed to withstand a flood. If it’s submerged in water for extended time periods, it can and will be damaged. However, very few floorings make it as easy to clean as vinyl sheet. Simply wipe away most spills with a clean cloth – it’s that easy.

Weekly deeper cleanings – while you should always wipe away spills immediately, every week or so, you should do a more in-depth cleaning across the floor. Use a dry duster to pick up dirt and debris. A vacuum works too; just be sure it’s set to hard flooring. Use a natural cleaner to avoid damaging the finish. Water and vinegar are often all you need to keep your floors sparkling clean. You can also create a paste of baking soda to help you remove tough stains. Check with manufacturer’s guidelines before using any chemical products, as some cleaners can null and void the warranty.

Other tips – to improve and protect the surface of your vinyl sheet flooring, be sure to use a doormat at every entrance to catch dirt before it enters. This is a good tip, no matter what flooring choice you’ve installed.

Be sure to close blinds to avoid direct sunlight from hitting your vinyl floors. Too much sun can cause fading over time.

Avoid placing heavy furniture directly onto the surface of your vinyl flooring. Instead, use flooring supports and protectors to prevent pressurized points from digging into the floor.

Use runways and other protectors when moving furniture into place. Vinyl sheet will scratch, especially if you drag heavy objects across.

Is vinyl sheet flooring the right choice for you?

There are so many reasons to love vinyl sheet, and use it to make any room in your home a little brighter.

What questions can we answer for you about vinyl sheet flooring?

Vinyl Floors
May 10, 2020

Will Luxury Vinyl Floors Be The New Trend After The Coronavirus?

Luxury vinyl floors have been growing in popularity for some time.

According to the latest market report, the luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) market is expected to grow by 12.8 percent over the next few years.

That’s because LVT brings a lot of benefits to the flooring market. Luxury vinyl tile gives you the ability to have the most elegant flooring choices on the market today, while doing so in a much more user-friendly and economical way.

Many homeowners love the look of exotic wood, or hard to use products like stone or marble. Yet after reading about the horror stories of living with it, they often choose something further down on their wishlists. How could you ever install a soft exotic wood if you have pets and kids around? You can almost see the dents and scratches forming before you ever place the first plank in place.

Luxury vinyl tile can give you the look, while keeping maintenance a breeze. That’s the benefit of LVT.

The future in a pandemic world

Right now, in the world of living with the coronavirus, we’re all learning new rules. Concepts we never understood before – social distancing, toilet paper shortages, and staying in place – have all changed our lives forever.

While we still have no idea what our future will look like, how we’ll start living again, and when (and if) a cure will ever be found, we do know we face a world with new precautions.

Hand washing is a must.
Cleaning surfaces takes on a whole new meaning.
And if you’re sick, stay home.

That leads to the condition of our homes. Will we demand our homes to be germ-free?

That’s impossible. But we can move to better surfaces that make it easier to clean and keep clean. At least in the foreseeable future, all trends point to easy to clean surfaces.

The future belongs to resilient flooring

What makes a surface clean? Being able to scrub it is mandatory. Being able to use a variety of cleaning products is a must.

And that’s where resilient flooring excels.

Over the past ten years, resilient flooring has skyrocketed in demand.

As a category in the flooring industry, resilient flooring has risen 185 percent over the past ten years. Resilient flooring now accounts for 21.4 percent of the total flooring marketplace, meaning one in five flooring purchases falls into this category.

Think that will change with this pandemic?

We do too.

Here’s why.

People love hardwood. But hardwood has its problems. If you want the look of hardwood with a surface area that’s easier to clean, luxury vinyl tile is your answer.

Laminate, hardwood, carpet, and more is not ideal for avoiding bacterial growth.

Luxury vinyl flooring is. The material has an antimicrobial quality built right into the finishing process. That means you can use many different types of cleaning products directly on the surface, and it won’t damage the finish.

That means your family stays safer, especially in trying times.

Are luxury vinyl floors for you?

We think luxury vinyl flooring is going to be the top flooring choice for many years to come. And with everything that’s happened so far in 2020, we think the predicted potential is going to be greater than expected.

If you’re contemplating which flooring to install in your remodel, and luxury vinyl floors are on your list, this is why it’s worth deeper consideration.

Price – Luxury vinyl tile is priced right; it’s an option for everyone, no matter what your budget dictates for your remodeling plans. Like every product, you’ll find price points all over the board. Thicker LVT will be at the higher end of the pricing scale, which also means you’ll increase quality and longevity. With care, you can expect this product to look good and wear well for years.

Durability – LVT is manufactured from some of the most robust materials in the industry. It’s built strong enough to handle some commercial applications, so you know it’s tough enough to withstand all your family can dish out. And because it’s also waterproof, you can install it in places you might not consider for other flooring options, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.

Maintenance – While we don’t suggest getting down on your hands and knees with a scouring pad to clean LVT, you will be surprised at how well it stands up to all kinds of cleaning methods. Wipe away spills with water. You can even scrub harder for grease and grime. The protective layer stands up to scratches, stains, scuffs, chips, dents, and more.

Insulation – Have you ever experienced “echo” with some flooring choices? Not with luxury vinyl. LVT is built in layers, and comes with a backing product that helps eliminate noise. Especially with thicker products, you’ll notice it absorbs the sound rather than amplifies it. And because that backing insulates against sound, you’ll also find it works equally well for warmth. That cushion does a good job of holding in the heat, and if you want to couple it with radiant heating underneath, you’ll find a new way to keep your space warm.

Installation – If you’ve ever dealt with hardwood before, you know you can’t buy it and install it on the same day. It takes a period of time to acclimate it to your living conditions. There’s subfloor work. There’s finishing work. It’s not unheard of for it to take several weeks from purchase to finalization. LVT is available in two formats: click or stick down. Click and lock is so easy, many DIYers prefer it, and can click each tile into place and have their project finished in a weekend. What’s more, because click technology is easy to lay into place without nails or glue, it also makes it easier to replace in the event of damage, Be sure to keep extra tiles on hand for the just in case.

Longevity – The last thing any of us want to do is to replace flooring every few years. With LVT flooring, with the right care and maintenance, you can easily expect it to last 25 to 30 years. Check with the manufacturer of the product you are considering and see what their warranties entail.

Design – While we probably don’t have to say it, you’ve seen it yourself, LVT offers some of the most beautiful choices on the market today. Luxury vinyl technology can mimic almost and design trend out there. And if you’re looking for better matches, different colors or patterns, you’ll find it in the LVT market. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, we can work with you there. Why stick with one product – mix several together for highlights that add to your living space.

We know times are changing. If you’re considering a remodel this year, and want to ensure cleaning and disinfecting is easier than ever, we suggest you give the luxury vinyl flooring products another look.

We think you’ll love what you see.

Tile Floors, Vinyl Floors
April 24, 2020

Why Vinyl Tile May Be Better Than Ceramic Tile

There are certain environments throughout your home where moisture and spills are more likely to occur. Like your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room.

It would never make sense to install carpet; can you imagine water seeping into the fibers and padding if your washing machine overflows? Now imagine cleanup if the flooring was water-resistant. It might be a pain, but you wouldn’t worry about the long-term implications.

That is why more homeowners are giving vinyl tile and ceramic tile another look.

But there’s a third thing to think about here in 2020 that will impact the way you live from now on: the coronavirus.

Cleanliness is more important than ever. Having the ability to clean and disinfect is at the top of every homeowner’s wish-lists for new flooring.

Does that make vinyl tile better than ceramic tile?

Let’s take a look.

Vinyl tile or ceramic tile – what’s the difference?

People, in general, have very distinct views of both vinyl tile or ceramic tile. They may remember growing up with one or the other, and have opinions about the look and feel of both.

If you haven’t looked at either lately, it’s time for a second look. Through technology, vinyl tile is now designed to mimic some of the most favorite products on the market. But the materials used in production are substantially different, and that can be a plus for you.

Vinyl tile is essentially made from the same thing as the more traditional vinyl sheet. It’s created using four layers:

A backing layer usually made from felt or fiberglass
A core layer made from PVC plastic
A print layer to add the design to your flooring product
A wear layer to give it its strength and durability

The difference between tile and sheet is the cut; vinyl tile is simply cut into squares to make it easier to handle and move. And because they’re easier to maneuver, manufacturers have been very creative with the design. You’ll find all sorts of patterns and colors. They even make composite tiles, which adds a sense of realism to more traditional plastic-only by including pulverized stone dust to the mix.

If you’re looking for a step up, you can move to the luxury vinyl tile line, which is much thicker and has tiles that join together through click-together technology. Luxury vinyl tile is found in both plank and tile format, and can take on the look of hardwood, ceramic or stone tile.

Ceramic tile is made up of natural clay mixed with other materials, fired and hardened with a surface glaze to give them their unique appearance. While ceramic tile tends to be a more generic term for the tiles you install in your home, it also includes things like porcelain tile, which hardens at higher temperatures, making them harder and more durable. They have their place in American homes, but keep in mind they do produce one of the hardest surface areas you can install.

Ceramic tile is often used in many ways – why not use it on the walls, countertops, and backsplashes to create a unique look? You would never do that with vinyl tile.

Do each have their place? Of course.

Is there a right choice? It all depends on you, your goals and your desires.

But if you are looking for beauty at an affordable cost, and want something that’s durable and easy to clean no matter how much you clean it, vinyl tile is worth a second look.

Why vinyl tile is growing in popularity

Market trends show that flooring is in demand now more than ever. That’s because people want a low maintenance, cost effective material that’s easy to install. Current statistics show it’s a 25 billion dollar industry, with growth predicted more than 7 percent per year through 2025.

What makes vinyl tile better than ceramic tile in many situations?

Cost

Vinyl tile is one of the most budget-friendly flooring choices you can make. In many cases, vinyl tile will be your only purchase. Compare that to ceramic tile where you’ll have to invest in adhesive, grout, and all the tools that go along with it. Depending on what vinyl tile product you select, you can expect to pay as much as 40 percent less than other popular types of flooring.

Durable

According to an article on Realtor.com, vinyl tile can last up to 20 years if well cared for. That makes it an excellent choice where water-resistance is needed. Plus, the soft cushiony texture is perfect if you have pets or kids, where playing and getting down on the ground is mandatory in your daily life. Ceramic tile’s hard surface means it’s harder no matter what hits it. If you drop a man, ceramic tile can chip or crack. It has a much better chance of bouncing back on a vinyl tile.

Installation

Are you looking for an easy DIY project? With most flooring choices, doing it yourself is often cost-prohibited because of the number of tools you need. If you want to install tile yourself, nothing is easier than vinyl tile. Start by pulling up the current flooring and ensure the subfloor is in good shape. With ceramic tile, the subfloor is less forgiving. If you tile over uneven spaces, there’s a greater risk your ceramic tile will pop off during normal living. Because vinyl tile is flexible, it settles in even with minor imperfections on the subfloor. And with luxury vinyl planks, they click into place without adhering to the subfloor. Their flexibility allows them to settle in and stand up over time.

And did we talk about the mess? If you’ve ever installed ceramic tile yourself, you know all of the stages you have to go through. Ensure the subfloor is level. Mix and apply the adhesive. Cut the tiles … and risk having broken tiles pile up. The dust. The grout! That’s why many people leave ceramic tile placement to the professionals.

Because vinyl tile is so easy to install, you can often have the project complete in one day, depending on the size of your room.

Flexibility

Are you the type of person who loves to keep up with the trends? Are you an HGTV addict? Is remodeling a part of your lifestyle? Then vinyl tile may be the perfect choice for you. Once ceramic tile is laid, it’s difficult to pull up and get your subfloor back into condition for the next flooring to be laid into place. With vinyl tile – especially luxury vinyl planks – with click and lock technology, you pick them up and ready the subfloor for your next flooring choice. That also makes them easy to repair if you damage one of them.

So what’s your flooring choice? Do you agree, vinyl tile is better than ceramic tile for what you’re looking for in a flooring choice?

Give us a call and learn about our complete line of vinyl tile.

Flooring, Vinyl Floors
March 29, 2020

Are Vinyl Flooring and Linoleum The Same Thing?

It’s easy to mistake vinyl flooring and linoleum. After all, they both look similar when you’re shopping for sheet flooring for your home.

You might also find that a lot of homeowners don’t know the difference, and use the words interchangeably when referring to their own flooring. They both offer tough, easily maintained surfaces that can be installed just about anywhere.

But even though they are similar in the way they perform, there are distinct differences between vinyl and linoleum that you should understand before you select one for your home.

How vinyl and linoleum are constructed

Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of styles. You’ll find it in sheets, where you roll it out and cut it to fit the length and width of your room. You’ll find it in tiles – perfect for a do-it-yourself project around the house. You’ll also find what’s referred to as luxury vinyl tile, or LVT, which can take on the appearance of other floorings such as hardwood or stone.

No matter which style you prefer to install, they are all made in a similar fashion:

Top wear layer – a top coat made of urethane or other materials is laid into place to protect the floor from scratches and stains.
Image layer – this is what gives the floor its classic good looks. Manufacturers create the image layer by taking high quality photographs of materials and using them to create specific appearances. Yet this process also gives the ability to stretch what’s possible, giving you access to more colors and patterns then you would find with more natural products.
Core – the core gives vinyl it’s strength and durability. Depending on the product use, this can produce dent-resistance, water-resistance, stain-resistance, as well as rigidity too. While some products like vinyl sheets may feel flexible before you install it, other products like LVT are firm, almost plank-like, designed to resemble the look of hardwood or stone.
Underlayment – different vinyl flooring choices have different underlayments. Some add cushion to make the floor softer when walking on it. Some are designed for noise reduction. Some add additional strength for a more durable flooring choice.

While linoleum may look a lot like vinyl, it’s a completely different product. One of the reasons it’s growing in popularity again is because it’s a mix of renewable natural materials. Linoleum is made from linseed oil, which comes from flax seeds. It also contains a variety of other materials such as cork powder, wood flour, and tree resin. The design layer isn’t a separate layer, but is instead embedded throughout the material. You won’t have the patterns and color options associated with vinyl, but the natural looks can be beautiful.

Because linoleum is a natural product, it needs a wear layer to protect it from day to day living. Many require a protective sealant to block out stains and scratches, and may require reapplying it more regularly than with other flooring materials.

Which is better vinyl or linoleum?

Better is a subjective word. Better for one homeowner might not be the same as for the next.

If you want variety, vinyl flooring might be your choice. Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of styles, patterns, and looks. If you’re trying to match a specific color, vinyl may be a better choice. If you want the looks of hardwood or stone without the high cost of those products, vinyl is your better choice. Vinyl offers:

Highly realistic image layers that can take on the look of just about anything
Greater trend options, giving you choices of everything from reclaimed and rustic hardwoods, to wider planks and more color choices
More options for installation – sheets can have your floors rolled into place in no time; planks may be the perfect choice for a do it yourself project.

Linoleum has an equal amount of perks:

Linoleum is made of natural products, helping you stay on track if you’re attempting to go green
It has anti-static properties, which can be perfect if you’re using it where static can impact equipment
It’s resilient, meaning it’s softer underfoot
It’s antimicrobial, giving you anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic flooring choices
It’s also more consistent with coloring because the pattern is all the way through the material

How do you tell if a kitchen floor is vinyl or linoleum?

Both vinyl and linoleum have been around for years. If you’re moving into an older home and you aren’t sure what type of flooring is in place, we have a few ways you can tell.

Start by looking closely at the material. Get down on the floor and look at the wear patterns, especially in high traffic areas. Is the pattern still in place? Or can you see through the pattern, with a more natural color peeking between the wear marks? Vinyl has an image layer that doesn’t bleed down into the core. If that layer is penetrated, it will start to show as the image layer separates. Linoleum has the pattern throughout, so no matter how the flooring wears, the pattern will remain in place.

You can also tell by the coloring of the flooring product. Because vinyl is human crafted, it can take on any color or pattern the manufacturer can create. If it’s vibrant in color, no matter how old it is, chances are it’s vinyl. Linoleum takes on a yellowing color, especially over time due to the linseed oil base.

What about durability?

Both vinyl and linoleum are easy to care for. For daily maintenance, simple mopping, sweeping, and vacuuming will have your flooring looking good. Linoleum is a little more sensitive to cleaners as it’s a natural product; check with the manufacturer to ensure you don’t use a product that will strip the finish. Linoleum also requires periodical waxing and an annual sealant to keep it in top condition.

Be sure to purchase extra product when you install linoleum or vinyl. If one section is damaged, you can patch it or replace it in sections without complete replacement.

While vinyl, in general, is less expensive than linoleum, they are both excellent choices for budget-minded homeowners. Vinyl can be expected to last ten years or so, depending on where its installed and the traffic levels. Linoleum will last 20 years or longer.

In areas where water is a problem – kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements – linoleum can wear well if properly installed. But nothing holds up to water the way vinyl does. If water is an issue, vinyl will always be your best choice.

Which is the right flooring choice for you – vinyl or linoleum?

Vinyl Floors
January 26, 2020

How Vinyl Floor Impacts The Environment

Are you looking for a sustainable flooring option? Want a flooring that doesn’t hurt the environment?

For many homeowners, sustainability is becoming one of their top shopping preferences. Not only is it better for the environment to think green before you buy, but it’s also important to bring materials into your home that won’t impact your family’s health too.

When you think green, a lot of materials come to mind. Wood. Bamboo. Wool. Yet most people rarely think about vinyl as being a green product. They are surprised to learn that vinyl floors can be environmentally friendly.

John Elkington defined the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach to sustainability back in 1994. According to Elkington, the Triple Bottom Line approach gives you a way to assess any product you choose to bring into your home based on three criteria. Look at:

The cradle to grave impact of the product
How the manufacturer contributes to sustainability throughout the company and the community
How economic stable the manufacturer is

How does vinyl flooring compare?

How vinyl floor is made

Vinyl flooring is made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Depending on the manufacturer, it has a variety of materials added to create its individualistic looks.

The primary element in vinyl flooring is a vinyl sheet. Manufacturers suspend vinyl in a liquid mixture that is then spread into a thin sheet and rolled to the desired length and width. Plastic coating is fused and dried to create a tough, durable material.

Vinyl sheets can be produced in many sizes and shapes. It can be sold in sheet format, cut into 6, 9, or 12 inch square tiles, or be cut into plank shapes.

All vinyl tile has several layers. It begins with a core layer of vinyl over a felt backing. Some vinyl floors have a very thin decorative layer that creates patterns and colors. A thin plastic layer can add to the durability and provide a relatively maintenance-free, scuff-resistant surface.

Think of the backing as the strength, the top layer as the wear layer. The two must work together to give you a high-quality product. The backing can be made in a similar fashion to papermaking, using things like limestone and clay.

Of course, what the final product is made from is up to the manufacturer. Resilient flooring now makes up about 14 percent of the flooring marketplace, meaning there’s a lot of room for both top of the line and less than reputable companies to do business with. That’s why it’s important to stick with a flooring company you can trust. If you do business with a reliable flooring company, they will only suggest manufacturers that make a high-quality product.

Harmful chemicals

If you do a search for the reasons why people don’t like vinyl floor, it almost always has to do with the chemicals used both in production of the flooring, and in the product itself. And for good reason. If you go back decades ago, before harmful chemical usage was researched, you’ll find a wide variety of materials were used to create vinyl.

Asbestos was high on the list of harmful chemicals. Asbestos was once thought to be a great insulator, as well as adding fire-retardant features to all it was added to. Once it was determined how toxic the material really was, all usage was halted. Even though you can still find asbestos in older insulation and vinyl flooring, care must be used when remodeling and taking the old products out.

Formaldehyde was another highly toxic chemical used in vinyl flooring. Formaldehyde is often mixed into the glues and adhesives used in vinyl production. Urea-formaldehyde has the greatest risk factors, causing respiratory and nervous system problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, increased risk of asthma and allergies in kids and adults.

Depending on the manufacturer used, you can find a host of other harmful chemicals used in production. Lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, dioxins, chloride, and phthalates are all toxic and irritants to the human body in some format.

The best way to get a vinyl flooring product that doesn’t use harmful chemicals is to ask. It’s the only way you can be sure you’re getting a top of the line product that has low or no risk factors you don’t want to bring into your home, or have impact the environment.

Environmental impact after installation

When most homeowners consider flooring options, they focus on the product before they choose and install. But if you are making the best choice for the environment, it’s important to consider all levels of the life cycle, including after installation.

What about durability? If you have a flooring option that handles well, is durable, and can withstand lots of activity and traffic, it means less chance of having to replace it quickly. If properly cared for and installed, vinyl floor can last as much as 20 years or even longer. If you don’t have to replace it as often, it saves on waste and the environmental impact of having it removed and sending it to the landfill.

Vinyl floors cannot be refinished. That means when they wear out, they will have to be replaced. Yet one of the best reasons to use today’s vinyl flooring tiles and planks is because it’s a relatively easy process to remove and replace them. Simply pull up the damaged tile or plank and tap the new one into place. You’ll add longevity to your flooring by only having to replace impacted areas.

Which also brings us to end of life. As a whole, vinyl flooring cannot be recycled, and it is not biodegradable. If you send it to the landfill, it just sits there taking up space indefinitely. Vinyl flooring is hard to recycle because of the different material makeup of the vinyl throughout. It’s tough removing the vinyl from the backing from the adhesive, meaning it’s next to impossible to recycle the parts that are truly recyclable.

This is changing too. As a whole, the industry knows it will have to change in the future. That’s why you’ll find the best manufacturers in the flooring industry doing their part now. Armstrong, for instance, has its own recycling program to keep product out of the landfills. It’s also finding other creative ways to recycle and use different products in different ways.

Is a vinyl floor in your future?

There are different flooring products for all kinds of homes, all kinds of people, all kinds of tastes. If you are leaning towards the durability and strength of vinyl flooring, don’t hold back. Today’s vinyl flooring can be a sustainable purchase that won’t harm the environment. Go with a reputable company that is working hard to make our future better. Ask us how.

Vinyl Floors
January 7, 2020

The Advantages Of Using Glue-Down Vinyl Tiles In Your Home

Glue-down vinyl tiles have many advantages. Maybe that’s what has made them so popular for decades. They can be the perfect addition to any high-traffic area of your home where water-resistance is also in demand, like a bathroom, laundry room, or kitchen.

Of course, with today’s technology, vinyl tiles aren’t what you remember from your parents’ homes. Maybe that’s why there is increasing interest in this viable flooring choice.

However, once you’ve decided to install vinyl floor, you can quickly become confused about the best way to install the. One of the reasons homeowners choose vinyl tile is because it’s perfect for the do-it-yourself project. But once you’ve narrowed down your choices, you’ll also have to decide the best way to install: floating or glue-down.

The reason both ways are still on the marketplace should clue you in that there are advantages to both. It’s important to consider your options carefully before you make your final decision.

First, let’s discuss glue-down vs floating

Before you weigh your options and make a decision, it’s important to understand the makeup of each product.

Glue-down is considered to be a permanent flooring. Because it adheres directly to the subfloor, it adds to the strength to increase scratch resistance, impact, and spills. Being permanent means you won’t be replacing it regularly, and are looking at longevity rather than replacement convenience.

Floating vinyl planks lay over the subfloor. They usually feature a click-and-lock system that makes this easy for do-it-yourselfers to install a floor in a weekend.

Glue-down vinyl tiles are easy to replace. Simply peel up a tile and replace it with a new one. Or easily life sections at a time. While floating tiles are easy to replace, they take a little more work because of the click system.

Glue-down is suitable for any room where high-traffic and water-resistance is standard. That makes glue-down vinyl great in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and entryways. It works well, no matter how large or small the room.

Floating tiles work similarly, however, they don’t work as well in larger rooms. You’ll have better results with glue-down over time.

The cost of glue-down is also more economical than floating tiles in most cases.

Settled in on glue-down vinyl tiles? What about the glue?

If you’re moving forward with installing glue-down vinyl tiles, they come with two different types of adhesive: a separate adhesive that is spread onto the floor using a trowel, and those that have adhesive covering the back with a peel-and-stick system.

While it can seem daunting to use a separate adhesive you’ll have to spread across the floor, it’s actually easier than it sounds. Plus, it has some benefits that may make it worth your time.

Self-adhesive tiles are very sticky. That makes them hard to reposition once they touch the subfloor. While many homeowners purchase vinyl tiles because they are easy to work with, this factor can negate ease. Many homeowners have become “frustrated” by how permanent these tiles become even with just a basic touch.

By contrast, if you work with floor tile adhesive you spread across the floor, it takes time for the glue to set. This gives you a chance to reposition the tile, look at the results, and change the layout again. It usually takes up to a full day for the adhesive to set, giving you plenty of time to ensure you have it right.

Self-adhesive tile is also more prone to curling. If you don’t get the installation right, self-adhesive tiles can curl up at the edges weeks or months after installation. Compare that to vinyl tiles that are installed with adhesive; they rarely loosen and curl by themselves. This can be especially important in high-traffic areas where risk is higher to catch edges.

Self-adhesive vinyl tiles also require a smoother, more perfect subfloor. Because they are thin with a standard peel-and-stick system to hold them in place, you’ll have to ensure your subfloor is free of imperfections before you lay it into place. Even small bumps or uneven areas can quickly cause problems down the road.

Compare that to installing with separate adhesive, you’ll find these glue-down tiles are easier to hide minor imperfections. Because you control the amount of adhesive, it’s easier to apply these tiles to areas with less than perfect subfloors.

Misconceptions about tile adhesive

There are three reasons people are a little apprehensive about choosing glue-down vinyl tiles before they do their research:

They assume the process is messy
They assume the odor will linger
They assume the adhesive is toxic

Who wants to bring all of that into your home, especially when you’re trying to make your home cleaner, and your life healthier?

In reality, those are nothing but myths about using glue-down vinyl tile. There are many different types of adhesives to choose from, some of which are latex-based, water-soluble, low or zero VOC. That means the smell isn’t very strong, and easily goes away in a short period of time. Because it’s water-soluble, it makes clean up a snap.

What’s even better is the cost. Glue-down tiles are, in general, less expensive than the peel-and-stick. You can get a gallon of adhesive for low cost, which will cover up to 400 square feet per gallon. That gives glue-down vinyl tile the advantage – and the perfect choice for the rooms you’re thinking of taking on yourself.

Which should you choose?

The reason there are so many choices on the market today is that there isn’t a right or wrong answer. Instead, it depends on your needs and your desires.

Start with your living styles. What would make the most sense for the way you live? Combine that with your personal choices, and you’re sure to find the perfect flooring for you.

If you have questions, that’s where it helps to stop by and speak with one of our flooring representatives. Our goal is to ensure you have the right flooring for your needs, and that you’ll be happy with it for years to come.

If glue-down vinyl tile is the right choice for you, you’ll love all of the colors, styles, and patterns we have in stock. Whether you’re taking on a do-it-yourself project, or are hiring a professional to handle the job, we’ll help you make the right choice.

Flooring, Vinyl Floors
January 2, 2020

Vinyl or Laminate? What To Know Before You Buy

Home remodeling projects can quickly become overwhelming. The amount of decisions you have to make in a short time escalates as you move from beginning to end.

A lot of homeowners have their hearts set on a particular type of flooring, only to discover their contractor tries to steer them in a different direction. It turns out that exotic hardwood flooring you’ve been dreaming of might not be the perfect fit for your bathroom. There are better choices, she says.

How about vinyl or laminate?

Before you scream: “What!” take a second look at these two products and see how they’ve changed the marketplace. These aren’t your parents’ flooring products. Technology has changed what’s possible, and made vinyl and laminate some of the best flooring products for every room in your home.

What is laminate made of?

Remember the laminate of yesteryear? It took on an almost plastic look and feel. Yet contrary to belief, laminate isn’t made up of plastic at all. Instead, laminate is made up of four wear layers built upon each other to build strength and durability into the final product. They are fused together using high heat and intense pressure to create a product that stands up well in areas where traditional hardwood often fails. These layers include:

Back layer – this is the bottom layer used to protect against moisture and help balance the floor
Core layer – this is a highly durable board that helps protect from moisture and build strength
Design layer – this is a high resolution photograph to mimic many of the top floor patterns on the market today
Wear layer – this is a clear layer to protect against scratches, stains, and fading

What are vinyl planks made of?

Vinyl comes in a variety of styles. While the more traditional vinyl flooring products were laid in place as either sheet vinyl or vinyl tiles, today homeowners have another option: luxury vinyl planks. These closely resemble other top flooring products, including hardwood or stone.

In the marketplace, luxury vinyl is commonly referred to as Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP).

Both LVT and LVP are made up of synthetic materials formed by mixing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), calcium carbonate, plasticizers, fungicides, and UV stabilizers, among other things. Through a heating process, they are combined with a vinyl compound that finishes the product base.

Like laminate, LVT and LVP both use four main layers:

Backing layer – a vinyl base layer that protects against moisture, mold, and mildew
Vinyl core – this is made from PVC material to make the product flexible and waterproof
Decorative layer – this is a thin digital image layer that is adhered to the vinyl core
Wear layer – the is a transparent topcoat that protects against scratches, stains, and fading

Vinyl vs Laminate – Which is better?

Homeowners usually gravitate towards vinyl and laminate when they are looking for a durable, economical, attractive flooring choice. If you want to take on a DIY project, both vinyl and laminate are good options. But which is better? That’s where many homeowners get confused.

For many years, laminate was the flooring of choice with its realistic graphics, easy installation, and thick, durable product that stood up well under traffic. But when the luxury vinyl plank entered the marketplace, things changed. A high quality LVP can stand up to pressure equally as laminate, and the graphics make it look like the real thing.

There really isn’t a bad choice when comparing the two.

Where will you install?

In some cases, it can center around where you’ll be installing your new flooring. One of the biggest separators between laminate and vinyl is the ability to stand up against moisture.

All types of vinyl – sheet, tile, and plank – are waterproof. They are usually made from a material that is 100 percent waterproof, giving it the ability to be installed in rooms where wet conditions are prevalent, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or mud rooms. While older vinyl may have had a fabric or felt back, newer product lines are made from polymer materials that can be fully immersed in water and still be unaffected.

Laminate uses a fiberboard at the core. Because this is a wood-based product, it will soften, swell, and eventually deteriorate when exposed to water. This can cause a host of damage, from warping during the drying process, to having the design layer peel back and fade away. If laminate has severe water damage, it will most likely have to be replaced.

Because of that, vinyl can be installed anywhere in your home and look great no matter how much abuse it takes. With laminate, you should be a little more choosy about where you install. Places like the living room, dining room, or bedroom are perfect for laminate. Full bathroom, laundry room, or mudroom, not so much.

Let’s talk about composition

While we’ve already compared the two products based on how they are produced, we haven’t talked much about composition.

Vinyl flooring is made entirely from synthetic material. You’ll find a thin fiberglass base coated with PVC vinyl, embossed with a print layer, and finished with a wear layer over the top. When you select luxury vinyl planks, they fit side by side, clicking into place. Because these layers are thin, you’ll find the overall thickness ranges from 1.5 mm to 5 mm.

Laminate flooring uses the same locking installation process, but the critical difference is the core. Because this is made from a wood product, it’s thicker than its synthetic counterpart. The overall thickness of laminate flooring ranges from 6 mm to 12 mm.

That can make the difference for where you choose to install it. Pay attention to transitions from room to room; are you trying to match a different flooring choice?

It’s all about aesthetics and preferences

Still trying to decide which is better, vinyl or laminate? Honestly, we love them both.

Today’s product lines can mimic just about any flooring product on the market, while giving you the benefits of being a more resilient flooring choice. Both vinyl and laminate can mimic wood, stone, ceramics, or just about any flooring you choose. The three-dimensional graphics used to create both vinyl and laminate are more real than ever before. If you want the look of exotic hardwood, for example, you might just prefer the look used to mimic it on vinyl or laminate, plus it’s a fraction of the price.

Is there a right choice? It all depends on your preferences. The best place to start is to stop by our showroom and see the differences yourself. Both vinyl and laminate are great products to include in your latest remodeling project.

Vinyl Floors
November 18, 2019

SPC vs WPC Vinyl Flooring – What’s The Difference?

Flooring is a personal choice. For a lot of homeowners, it isn’t as much about what they want as it is about selecting the right flooring for their lifestyles.

Take hardwood, for example. You can’t ignore that it’s wildly popular along the Front Range. Every home decorating magazine you buy, every big box store you visit, every renovation expert you speak with will tout the positives of installing hardwood. But for many homeowners, hardwood doesn’t make sense.

Why install something you know will be destroyed almost as quickly as it’s laid into place?

One of the latest trends in the flooring industry is rigid core flooring. It’s a stylish and relatively affordable option that brings a lot of positives to the table. Rigid core flooring has two main subsections: stone plastic composite (SPC) and wood plastic composite (WPC). These two types of vinyl flooring are similar, except for their core layers.

The SPC core is made up of natural limestone powder, polyvinyl chloride, and stabilizers.

The WPC core is made from recycled wood pulp and plastic composites.

Both are considered rigid core flooring because they are created with multiple layers:

Wear layer – this is the top transparent layer that provides resistance to scratches, dents, and stains.
Vinyl layer – this gives it durability and strength. This is also where the color and pattern are printed and adhered to the product.
Core layer – this gives the product its waterproof qualities, and is either SPC or WPC.
Base layer – made from EVA foam or cork, it creates the base of the planks.

As you can imagine, each of these layers is vitally important to creating a strong, durable product that will do well in your home for many years to come. Each layer is created differently, depending on which product you select and what manufacturer you purchase from. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to brands, and ask a flooring expert for advice.

Similarities between SPC and WPC flooring

In the flooring industry, WPC has been around longer than SPC, with SPC being newer technology in the industry. In some ways, SPC is an improvement on the original WPC flooring. Yet both are different and make wonderful additions to your home, depending on your needs.

Both SPC and WPC flooring are:

Waterproof – that’s what makes SPC and WPC vinyl flooring planks perfect for your home. If you’ve decided against hardwood in your kitchen, bathrooms, or basement, SPC and WPC flooring can give you the look and feel, yet stand strong against water damage. These are both perfect additions to spaces where hardwood is typically not recommended.

Durable – what makes both SPC and WPC so durable is its multi-layer construction. These products were built with strength in mind. That means they will hold up well to whatever your family dishes out, even in high-traffic areas. If durability is your focus, just look for manufacturers that create products with thicker wear layers.

Easy to install – many homeowners like the fact that both SPC and WPC products are perfect for the do-it-yourselfer. You can install both on virtually any subfloor. They also lock into place rather than utilizing messy glues for the installation process.

Stylish – both SPC and WPC offer a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles. You’ll easily find something that fits your decor. Today’s homeowners love the fact that SPC and WPC vinyl planks mimic tile, stone, or hardwood, and give you the look and feel of a more expensive product in a more affordable and durable package.

Differences between SPC and WPC flooring

The core layer in SPC and WPC is made up of different materials. Because both are different products, there are some distinct differences it’s worth paying attention to:

Thickness – because of the composite materials used, WPC tends to be thicker than SPC. SPC runs on average between 3.2 to 7 millimeters, whereas WPC averaged 5.5 to 8 millimeters thick.

Durability – even though WPC is thicker than SPC, SPC tends to be more durable under pressure. If you’re worried about damage from high traffic or weight distribution, SPC tends to do better under pressure.

Stability – both products do well at resisting water damage, but over time SPC wins out as it offers even more resistance to both moisture and temperature variances.

Noise – because WPC offers a thicker core, it tends to absorb sound better, which can make rooms quieter when walking or moving around.

Feel – WPC provides a better feel underneath. The thicker core offers more support and cushion underfoot.

How to shop for WPC and SPC vinyl flooring

Are you starting to see the benefits of these two products?

As a homeowner, think of WPC in a similar manner as if you were purchasing a plush carpet. It looks great and feels great underfoot. That makes it a perfect choice in a room where you want softness and warmth, yet went the look, feel, and easy maintenance of more traditional flooring. Whether you prefer tile, stone, or hardwood, WPC vinyl flooring can give you exactly what you’re looking for.

If you have more extreme conditions, SPC vinyl flooring is a good choice. It’s no wonder it’s growing in popularity in commercial spaces. It offers all of the benefits associated with traditional vinyl flooring, but adds the virtually indestructible core that gives it longevity. It keeps going, no matter what you dish out. It can handle moving furniture around without showing dents and scratches. It can take high traffic from an office space where people come and go all day long. No matter how much traffic you see, the SPC core bounces back.

Keep in mind that different manufacturers sell WPC and SPC vinyl flooring using different names. You might see it listed as:

Rigid vinyl planks
Enhanced vinyl planks
Waterproof vinyl flooring
Engineered vinyl flooring

Be sure to inspect it thoroughly to understand what the core layer is made from to determine which product you’re getting. And if you have any questions, just ask. A flooring consultant should be able to answer all your questions to your satisfaction. If not, find someone who can.

Flooring, Vinyl Floors
September 17, 2019

Does Luxury Vinyl Need an Underlayment?

Thinking of adding new flooring to your home? You’ll love what today’s luxury vinyl can do for any room in your house. This isn’t your mom’s vinyl flooring. Today’s styles, colors, and patterns can transform any room into a beautiful space. Whether you choose sheet, tiles, or planks, this is a product you won’t regret installing.

But before you make your final selection, there is something else to consider. It’s not always as simple as ripping out the old and installing the new without thinking about the surface you’ll be adhering to.

Vinyl is easy to install

There are a lot of reasons people decide to install vinyl flooring into their homes. It’s affordable. It’s durable. It’s easy to clean and easy to care for. It’s also easy to install.

And that makes it perfect for the homeowner who wants to take on a do-it-yourself project and be proud of the results.

You can install vinyl on just about any type of subfloor. If it’s flat, it makes the perfect base for whatever luxury vinyl you choose. You should also clean it up and make sure it’s free of debris. Use a floor scraper to ensure there are no high spots in the floor, and that it flows freely from one corner of the room to another.

If you do have high spots, it might take a grinder to smooth it out. Again, be sure to thoroughly clean the subfloor after any work is done to ensure there isn’t any dust or debris left in its path.

Does luxury vinyl plank need underlayment?

Once you have a smooth surface area to work with, you’ll need to decide if you want to install an underlayment. It depends on the subfloor type. It depends on the product you’ll be installing. It’s best to talk with one of our flooring consultants, who can help you make a decision based on the manufacturer you select.

A luxury vinyl tile (LVT) underlayment is a specially formulated underlayment for installing underneath luxury tiles. Some products have it built into the product itself, so it’s not necessary to lay it separately. Most of today’s luxury vinyl tiles are fully waterproof, which means you won’t have to put a damp screen to prevent moisture as a part of the underlay.

If you do lay a separate underlay, they are in general thinner than what you would install with laminate or carpet.

Why would you want to install an LVT underlayment too?

One of the biggest reasons is for noise reduction. Vinyl tiles cause more noise to vibrate through a room. If you have thin walls and floors, and live close to your neighbors, that can be a problem. Adding an additional LVT underlayment can have a beneficial effect.

Here in Colorado, you might also want to add underlayment to create a warmer effect. If you’ve ever walked into a room with tile in the middle of winter, you know it can have a chilling effect. Adding additional underlayment can make your floors feel a bit warmer, even on the coldest of days.

It also creates a softer flooring choice, which can be beneficial to homes with small children or the elderly. It’ll feel softer when your kids are on the ground, learning to crawl, or playing with their toys. It will also be more forgiving if your elderly parent takes a fall.

When you’re looking at underlayment, look at vinyl sound ratings. Many of today’s top product lines will be rated for sound vibrations. This gives you a starting point for making the right choice in the quiet factor of the product you install.

What about for click and lock vinyl tiles? Do you need underlayment for those?

One of the most popular products on the market are easy-to-install click and lock vinyl plank tiles. They mimic hardwood yet offer the ease of maintenance of luxury vinyl.

Vinyl click tile is usually very thin. If you add an additional underlayment underneath, it can impact the way this product locks into place. If you’re installing it over concrete and you have a question about moisture issues, consider adding a vapor barrier underlayment first that will product against water problems. Just ensure any underlayment you add is thin, so it doesn’t impact the locking process of the vinyl planks.

And because luxury planks with click into place features don’t require the use of adhesives, they are also the perfect choice for installing over radiant heating. If you are considering this type of installation, talk with your flooring consultant first.

What about concrete – should you use a special underlayment for laying vinyl on concrete?

The key to installing luxury vinyl over concrete is to ensure the floor is level and clean. Underlayment isn’t a necessity, but you might consider it to add noise reducing qualities or additional softness to the product.

If the concrete is uneven, you will have to level it out. Without being level, your flooring won’t have the right conditions to form to. And that can cause wear and tear on the product, making it fail before it reaches its full lifespan.

You should also be aware if moisture is an issue. If so, be sure to install a moisture barrier before you install your luxury vinyl tiles into place.

Are there other reasons to consider underlayment before installing luxury vinyl?

While most people consider the quality of the luxury vinyl they are purchasing to be the determining factor in lifespan, there is another factor you should consider too.

Underlayment can also help with compression resistance. Is your room high-traffic? Does it have pets running and playing? Or maybe you frequently drop things from several feet in the air? Consistent traffic can easily cause permanent dents in your flooring structure.

If you select a dense underlayment meant for high traffic areas, it can help uphold the configuration of your luxury vinyl, and give your flooring added strength.

Is luxury vinyl the right choice for you?

Before you make your final choice, it’s best to stop by and learn all the facts about each flooring choice you’re considering. Different flooring manufacturers offer different benefits; we can help you determine what’s best for you.

But if you’re looking for an affordable, easy to care for, easy to install floor that looks beautiful too, keep luxury vinyl at the top of your list. We think you’ll love the results.

Flooring, Vinyl Floors
September 7, 2019

Why Removing Old Vinyl Yourself Isn’t A Good Idea

We recently did a Google search for removing old vinyl yourself. Yep, there’s a lot of homeowners out there ready to tackle home improvement projects one room at a time. And why not jump into one you can really dig into?

New flooring is always a treat. It can’t be that difficult to remove old vinyl yourself, and install something new … can it?

Here’s just a sampling of the advice you’ll find if you search out how to do this home improvement project.

Removing old vinyl can be quite difficult, as most are installed using adhesive attached to the subfloor. Most subfloors are wood, which means they’re porous; thus they absorb the adhesive. You’ll have to use a flooring scraper, paint scraper, and a putty knife to remove the vinyl and scrap away all adhesive residue before beginning your next project.

And that makes sense, for a variety of reasons.

Before you install new, you want to take out the old. If you lay new flooring over old, you could be in for a host of problems, especially with vinyl.

For example, if you leave traces of old linoleum glue on the wood subfloor, older adhesives have chemicals that can react with new vinyl products. This can create a yellowing discoloration, and it null and voids the warranty. That means you’ll be replacing your flooring way before its lifespan is reached.

What is vinyl flooring?

Before we go any further, let’s discuss what today’s vinyl flooring really is.

Vinyl flooring is made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Additional materials are added in to give it its appearance, and to allow color, patterns, sheen, and flexibility to shine through. Yet the primary element starts with a simple vinyl sheet. Then it’s suspended in liquid, with different layers added, smoothed out, and dried to give it its unique look. It can be kept in sheet format, or further cut into squares or planks for ease of installation.

Homeowners have been choosing vinyl for decades for many reasons.

Unlimited color and pattern opportunity
Easy installation
Easy maintenance
One of the most economical flooring choices you can make

But vinyl flooring hasn’t always been made the way it is today. Different processes have been used. Different materials have been used in production. And therein lies the problem.

Old vinyl flooring runs the risk of having been developed using asbestos

Think back to homes built one hundred years ago. Minus four walls and a roof, the two have little in common from a building aspect. From the 1940s to the 1970s, many home products contained asbestos. It was thought to be a highly -effective and inexpensive fire-retardant material, one that was used extensively in all kinds of products because of its insulation qualities. You can find asbestos in all types of materials, including

Window caulking
Roofing material
HVAC duct insulation
Plaster
Some forms of paint
And of course, vinyl flooring

So the first question you have to ask yourself is: How old is my house? And if your house was built from the 1940s to the 1970s, is there a risk that the old vinyl flooring was from that time frame?

Eventually, people started questioning the benefits of asbestos. They quickly found that the chemicals included in asbestos were harmful to the body when breathed in. Today, all forms of vinyl flooring are asbestos-free. And if you remove old flooring at risk of having asbestos, it’s recommended to utilize professional services to ensure the job is performed the right way. This is to ensure you and your family stay safe long after the flooring has been removed and replaced.

The dangers of removing asbestos vinyl flooring yourself

Asbestos is divided into two categories:

Friable material – this is material that is easily broken or crumbled. Friable materials are dangerous because they can easily be released into the air supply, and will release toxic dust into the air.

Nonfriable material – these are durable products where the asbestos fibers are strong and contained. They are safe as long as the material isn’t damaged.

Old vinyl flooring is considered nonfriable material. When the vinyl is in good condition, it’s safe to walk on, safe to use in a home environment.

That’s probably why you’re likely to find old asbestos vinyl flooring under different layers of newer flooring. The recommendation has always been to leave the flooring alone, and install new flooring over the top. Recommendations were also made to seal it with a coat of epoxy floor paint. All of these options trap asbestos in the floor, and keep them safe from your air supply.

However, that doesn’t negate the danger. And when you do a full remodel, bringing the flooring down to the original subfloor, that’s where the risk materializes once again. If you chip away at old vinyl, you move the material from nonfriable to friable category. And your risk escalates.

And it’s not just the vinyl that puts you at risk. Even old adhesives could contain asbestos if they were produced during the proper time frame.

Cutting, sanding, scraping, and tearing vinyl away from the floor should never be performed by anyone but a professional. As a homeowner, you might not be aware of the danger, which, in effect, puts you at an even greater risk.

Learn your options by shopping our retail location

We’re flooring experts. We can help you every step of the way.

If you know you’re at risk – or even if you aren’t sure – your best place to start is by having a conversation with one of our flooring consultants. We deal with this problem regularly, and can help you find the right solution for your home.

Fortunately, there are many different remedies on the market that will make removal dust-free, without putting you or your family’s health at risk. When you remove old vinyl without risk, it creates a safer environment long before it ever had the chance to become a problem.

And it leaves your home in better condition for the new flooring you decide to install.

Don’t hide or cover up the problem. We can help you stay safe while getting the flooring of your dreams. Think twice before removing old vinyl yourself. Hire a professional instead.