Vinyl plank floors last a good, long time, and that is just one of the reasons why it is growing in popularity.  It looks like hardwood flooring, which is what it is designed to do, but it comes at a much more affordable price.  Vinyl plank flooring has many advantages over “real” hardwood flooring.  Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of vinyl plank flooring.

ADVANTAGES

We already know it is more affordable than its hardwood counterpart.  What else should we know?  It comes in many looks and styles so you will easily be able to find a choice that will match your home’s décor.  Many styles use a felt backing and, therefore, it is softer for your feet to walk on, as well as providing more give if a plate or glass is dropped on it.  Some options can add layers of padding, which is especially helpful if you suffer from knee or leg pain.  

Also, with the added insulation, vinyl plank flooring is great at staying at room temperature, which means your feet can always stay warm and cozy walking on it.  It is 100% water-resistant – always a good factor when choosing vinyl plank flooring for a kitchen or bathroom.  It is also a good choice for basements because of its ability to seal well against any possible water damage.  It’s a great option for homes with pets, too, who might have the occasional accident.

The process of installing vinyl plank flooring is quick and easy because it can be installed right on your subfloor.  Choosing a thicker version of vinyl plank flooring can help if the subflooring isn’t exactly perfect.  It’s easy to maintain and, therefore, is a great option for busy households that give the floor a real workout.  It will likely wear well for many years.  

Vinyl plank flooring comes in different thicknesses.  Many of the thicker vinyl flooring versions may offer warranties on the product for as much as 25 years, while a thinner vinyl choice can last between 5 and 10 years, depending on use.

Let’s summarize the advantages:

  • Affordable
  • Many styles and variations to choose from to match a home’s décor
  • Softer to walk on
  • Water-resistant
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Looks like “real” hardwood flooring
  • Easy to maintain
  • Comes in different thicknesses (some have warranties)

DISADVANTAGES

While vinyl plank floors can last for many years, there are a few things to keep in mind to help your flooring stay looking great and lasting longer. It can damage easily if not well-cared for.  Here are a few simple tips to help vinyl plank floors last:

  • It can be scratched so the place felt or silicone padding on the bottom of furniture feet to help prevent scratching the vinyl surface when moving furniture.
  • During the installation process, ensure that no little particles are left behind underneath the tile because they can cause warping or bumps in the flooring.
  • Vinyl plank flooring can look great and wear well, but it does not really add to the resale value of a home.
  • Beware of bargain brands of vinyl plank flooring – remember the old adage, “you get what you pay for.”  It’s true.  Buy a quality high-end brand.
  • It is not UV-ray resistant.
  • It is not biodegradable and not easily recycled.  It can be recycled but organizations who take it are hard to find.

Vinyl plank flooring is made of a softer material than other tiles, laminates, or hardwood floors; therefore, it can be punctured rather easily if sharp objects (such as those in a kitchen) are dropped on it.  If a heavy object is dropped, it can also dent the flooring and the dent is likely to remain in the flooring.

Vinyl plank flooring is also not UV-ray resistant.  If you plan to use this type of flooring in a room that gets a lot of sun, you might want to consider adding a tint to your windows to help protect against the harmful rays.  

While there are pros and cons of vinyl plank flooring, armed with the knowledge of what to expect and how to care for it, this type of flooring can be a great asset to your home. Request a free flooring installation estimate from East Coast Flooring & Interiors today.