Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice among homeowners due to its durability and affordability. However, you must be aware of the pros and cons of vinyl plank flooring you must be aware of the pros and cons of vinyl plank flooring before making the decision to install it in your home. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of vinyl plank flooring so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for your space.
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Durability
While considerably durable, vinyl plank is not as durable as some other types of flooring, such as hardwood or tile.
How long will vinyl plank flooring last? It depends on the quality of the product itself, the quality of the installation, and its maintenance. On average, vinyl plank flooring lasts around 10-20 years.
Wear and Tear
High-quality vinyl plank flooring has exceptional durability and resilience to wear and tear. But like any other flooring option, it is susceptible to wear and tear from foot traffic over time. The surface of the planks may become dull or scratched if they are not properly maintained or protected from heavy objects being dragged across them.
Scratches and Dents
Vinyl planks are generally more resistant to scratches than other types of floors like laminate or wood, but they still have their limits when it comes to resisting deep scratches caused by pets’ claws or sharp objects dropped on them.
Also, dents can form in areas where heavy furniture has been placed for extended periods of time, causing an uneven surface texture on your vinyl planks which could be difficult to repair without replacing them entirely.
Water Damage
Vinyl planks are water resistant and some are even considered waterproof. They can withstand water and other spills for a certain period. However, standing water can still seep through and damage the glue and the subfloor so it necessary to wipe the spills right away. If you live in a flooding-prone area, you should consider installing waterproof underlay to prevent potential water damage down the line.
Resistance to Fading
Vinyl planks are designed to resist fading but be aware that they may fade over time if they are installed in areas exposed to full strong sunlight.
Maintenance
In order to keep your vinyl plank floor looking its best, it’s important to understand the necessary cleaning methods, repairs, and replacement options.
Cleaning and Care: Vinyl plank flooring should be vacuumed or swept regularly in order to remove dirt and debris that can scratch or dull the surface of the planks. It’s also important to use a damp mop on occasion in order to clean up spills quickly before they have time to set into the material. For tougher stains, you may need a mild detergent solution specifically designed for vinyl floors. Avoid using harsh chemicals as these can damage the finish of your planks over time.
Appearance
Vinyl planks come in a wide variety of incredibly life-like finishes allowing you the look and feel of luxury at a fraction of the price.
Comfort
Vinyl plank flooring is made of multiple layers, with an outer layer composed of PVC plastic and a core made from foam or similar material. Though not as soft and comfortable as carpet, vinyl planks are softer underfoot and are more comfortable to walk on compared to tile and hardwood flooring.
Noise Level
Noise level is another factor to consider when choosing a flooring material. Luxury vinyl planks have thicker cores that help reduce noise levels but they are still not quite as quiet as other options like carpet or cork floors.
Cost of Installation and Materials
The initial cost of installing vinyl plank flooring can be relatively inexpensive compared to other types of flooring materials. Depending on the type and quality, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25-$79 per square metre for material alone. This is a great option for those looking to save money while still getting a high-quality product. However, there are long-term costs associated with maintaining it that should be taken into consideration before making a purchase decision.
Initial Costs of Vinyl Plank Flooring
When purchasing vinyl plank flooring, there are several factors that will affect the overall cost such as size, style, thickness and installation method. The larger the area being covered by the planks, the more expensive it will be due to increased material costs and labour hours required for installation. Additionally, certain styles or patterns may require additional cutting or trimming which could add extra time and expense to your project. Lastly, thicker planks tend to have higher price tags than thinner ones but they also offer greater durability over time so this should also be taken into account when budgeting for your new floors.
Here at Carpet One, the fully installed price for vinyl planks (product, installation) starts at $60 per square metre. This does not include floor preparation, freight, and furniture removal.
Long-Term Costs of Vinyl Plank Flooring
At first, vinyl plank floors may seem cheaper than other types of floor coverings such as hardwood or tile. However, they do require regular maintenance in order to keep them looking their best over time. Cleaners specifically designed for use on vinyl surfaces should always be used to avoid damaging the finish or causing discolouration due to harsh chemicals found in generic cleaners. Additionally, periodic waxes may need to be applied depending on how much traffic your floors receive and any repairs that may arise from accidental scratches or dents caused by furniture movement or pet claws. These added expenses should all factor into your total cost calculations when deciding if this type of floor covering is right for you and your home’s needs.
Vinyl plank flooring may be an attractive and cost-effective option for your home, but it’s important to consider the initial and long-term costs associated with installation and materials. In the next section, we’ll explore the disadvantages of vinyl plank flooring.
Environmental Impact
Manufacturing Processes and Chemicals Used in Production: Vinyl plank flooring is made from a combination of synthetic materials, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plasticizers. During the manufacturing process, these materials are combined with other chemicals such as stabilizers, lubricants, pigments, fillers and flame retardants to create the finished product. The use of these chemicals can have an environmental impact due to their potential toxicity when released into the environment. Additionally, some of these chemicals may also be hazardous to human health if inhaled or ingested.
When it comes to disposing of old vinyl planks, proper methods must be followed in order to reduce their environmental impact. These planks should not be placed in regular trash bins as they contain hazardous materials that could leach into soil or water sources if not disposed of correctly. Instead, take them to a local recycling centre where they can be recycled or reused for other purposes such as playground surfaces or artificial turf fields. Additionally, some manufacturers offer take-back programs where consumers can return used vinyl planks for free recycling.
FAQs About Vinyl Plank Flooring
What is the downside of vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring has a few potential downsides. Firstly, it can be difficult to install and may require professional help. Secondly, vinyl plank flooring is not as durable as other types of flooring such as hardwood or tile. It is also prone to scratching and denting from heavy furniture or objects being dragged across the surface. Additionally, vinyl plank flooring does not have the same aesthetic appeal as natural wood floors and may look artificial in some settings. Finally, due to its synthetic nature, vinyl plank flooring can emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which could cause health issues if inhaled over long periods of time.
Is vinyl plank better than laminate plank?
Vinyl plank flooring is a great option for those looking for an easy -to -install, low maintenance and cost-effective alternative to traditional hardwood or laminate. Vinyl planks are made of PVC, making them more durable than laminate planks which are typically composed of wood particles and resin. Additionally, vinyl plank flooring has a wide range of design options with realistic textures that mimic the look and feel of real wood or stone without sacrificing durability. Furthermore, vinyl plank flooring is waterproof which makes it ideal for areas prone to moisture such as bathrooms and kitchens. On the other hand, laminate planks can be susceptible to water damage if not properly sealed or installed correctly. In conclusion, when comparing vinyl plank vs laminate plank floors, vinyl offers superior performance in terms of durability and waterproofing while still providing a stylish aesthetic at an affordable price point.
How long will vinyl plank flooring last?
Vinyl plank flooring is a durable and long-lasting option for your home. With proper care and maintenance, it can last up to 20 years or more. The key to getting the most out of your vinyl plank flooring is regular cleaning with approved products and avoiding scratching or gouging the surface. Additionally, it’s important to avoid standing water on the planks as this can cause warping over time. If you take good care of your vinyl plank flooring, you’ll be able to enjoy its beauty for many years!
What are the dangers of vinyl flooring?
Vinyl flooring is generally considered a safe and durable option for many homes. However, there are some potential dangers associated with vinyl flooring that should be taken into consideration before installation.
The main danger of vinyl flooring is the presence of phthalates, which are chemicals used to make the material soft and flexible. Phthalates can leach out over time, leading to potential health risks such as reproductive issues or cancer. Additionally, if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, vinyl floors may become brittle and crack easily. Finally, certain types of adhesive used in installing vinyl floors can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which could potentially cause respiratory irritation or other health problems when inhaled in large amounts over an extended period of time.
Conclusion
Vinyl plank flooring is a great option for those looking for an affordable and durable flooring solution.
When properly cared for, vinyl planks can last up to 20 years. They come in a wide range of realistic finishes that would suit any style of home, without the hefty price tag. They are comfortable underfoot and offer superior sound insulation.
Vinyl planks are also easy to maintain: all they need is regular vacuuming and light mopping. Most vinyl planks sold nowadays are waterproof but they are not flood-proof. Standing water can still seep through and damage the subfloor if no waterproofing layer is installed.
However, they can be prone to dents and scratching. Also they may fade when installed in areas constantly exposed to the sun. Vinyl planks also can’t withstand extreme temperature changes very well.
At Carpet One, we understand that not every flooring option is perfect for everyone. Vinyl plank flooring can be a great choice in some cases, but it does have its drawbacks. Our experienced staff can help you determine if vinyl plank flooring will work for your needs and budget or suggest alternative solutions to meet your home improvement goals. Stop by today to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of vinyl planks so you make an informed decision when selecting new floors!
