Vinyl tiles are known to be made of polyvinyl chloride which is made from plastic, a very useful material for all kinds of toys, including house coverings. The material composition of the vinyl tiles makes it easy for the tiles to relax and also makes it more easy and accessible to walk than other types of floor coverings in terms of comfort. These properties make vinyl tiles ideal for areas of busy home, especially those with children and pets.

Vinyl tiles as flooring have many advantages. It requires a minimum of maintenance, it is durable, generally inexpensive and also available in various designs.

Types of vinyl tiles

Luxury Vinyl

Luxury vinyl is the newest type of vinyl tiles in the market and has outperformed other vinyl types of tiles in terms of similarity to stone or wood. It even has realistic textures and comes in the form of boards or tiles. There are also versions of luxury vinyl tiles that can be sealed. But note that the luxury Vinyl tiles price is higher.

Sheet vinyl

Sheet vinyl is known as the standard vinyl tiles. It is delivered in large rolls, which the installer then cuts to match the floor. Being a solid sheet, it is great for bathrooms. There is a much lower likelihood of water seeping under the ground and wasting your subsoil as well. It is also one of the most economical flooring options available.

Linoleum

Linoleum and vinyl are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Linoleum is made from linseed oil, an organic substance made from flaxseed, which is then blended with a variety of other natural materials. Vinyl is made of PVC, which is extracted from petroleum. Although it usually comes in sheets, like vinyl sheet, it can also come in sheets and boards. A big difference between the two is that linoleum is not waterproof. It resists water, but excessive amounts of liquid can curl the corners.

How to install vinyl tiles?

When installing Vinyl tiles, all deep points, cavities and seams must be completed. Use a durable, recommended substance that will not damage the underside of the box or be exposed to the pressure of road traffic. The door panel must be free so you can slide the tiles underneath. Make sure the cut fits the tile perfectly to avoid excessive cuts. It is recommended to use an oscillating saw or a hand saw to better control the cut.

Prepare the surface by installing a base. Different materials provide moisture resistance and a uniform surface. If your subfloor is in good condition, you can skip this step and glue your tiles directly. Arrange your tiles without sticking to create the pattern. Remember that the look of your floor depends on your creativity when laying tiles. Create a pattern that defines the mood and personality of your floor.

Pros of Vinyl tiles

Cost effective

Vinyl tiles are good value for money because they have a long life and are less expensive than ceramic tiles or wood floors, although they can achieve a very similar appearance. For small budgets, vinyl tiles are a good choice.

Beauty

Vinyl tiles are known to be appealing to the eyes in terms of beauty because they are available in many flamboyant colors, structure and different styles. Some even look like ceramic tiles or hardwood floors. Luxury vinyl tiles have a textured finish that gives them even more the look of stone or wood. When properly installed, it can be difficult to tell the difference between LVT and natural products.

Comfort

Vinyl floors are softer than stone or wood floors. The felt layer underneath the vinyl tiles makes it easy and more comfortable when you stand without feeling discomfort underneath your feet. Luxury vinyl tiles is known to have an extra layer that protects the flooring from unwanted scratches.

Durability

Vinyl tiles are very durable and keep out a lot of traffic. This is one of the main reasons why so many houses comprise the kitchen, the bathroom, the laundry and in some cases the whole house. The manufacturers of vinyl tiles gives a surety warranty of about fifteen years or more. Once installed properly, vinyl tiles should last 20 years or longer.

Easy installation

Lots of people go for vinyl tiles due to the ease of installation. Vinyl tiles are beneficial because they can be placed directly on existing floors without removing the old floors. Vinyl tiles can also be laid directly on the subfloor. This is a good choice if the soil is cracked or if the soil may move.

Easy maintenance

Vinyl tile involves very low maintenance. People like beautiful floors that do not require special treatments. There is no need to wax or scrub. Maintaining a vinyl tile floor is as easy as sweeping dirt and wiping a wet mop. LVT is water resistant and therefore an excellent choice for kitchen and bathroom.

Ecologically friendly:

The tiles are made of 100% organic products. In this way, you can achieve the goals of green building standards and benefit from the incentives offered.

Safe:

Luxury vinyl tiles has also met all safety standards for floor materials. These standards include skid resistance and flammability, which makes vinyl tiles one of the safest flooring tiles recommended for every household.

Cons of vinyl tiles

  • It is sensitive to scratches, so it is important not to drag heavy pieces of furniture on the surface of the tiles. Big dogs that have long nails may not suit this type of flooring. It is also necessary to apply vinyl to the smooth surfaces, and it is possible that the joints are visible. However, a professional installer can often find ways to make sure the seams are hidden when needed.
  • When damaged the tiles cannot be repaired
  • May release volatile organic compounds which is abbreviated as (VOCs)
  • Vinyl tiles has a shorter life span than wood floors
  • Has a negative impact on the resale value at home
  • Hard to remove, especially if an adhesive is used during installation