When a customer asks for vinyl flooring, they could mean many things. Old school vinyl flooring came in sheets and required a glue-down application. Modern vinyl flooring comes in several different types. Vinyl floors continue to be an affordable option for large installations but can also be a luxury flooring product. Making sure you understand the different types of vinyl floors that are available can help you guide your clients to the right choices for their homes.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)
LVP has taken the flooring industry by storm. It offers the look and feel of hardwoods, but at a fraction of the cost. It is also very durable, allowing people to get the look of hardwood without the maintenance or having to worry about water exposure. Vinyl planks may be glue down or click and lock. You can install them over existing flooring, and they have a built-in underlayment layer that enhances comfort, reduces sound, and absorbs shock.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl is what many people may think of when they think of vinyl floors. It used to be the flooring of choice in kitchens. Available in a huge range of styles and colors, sheet vinyl is affordable and quickly installed in large spaces. Its fiberglass core means it can go anywhere in the house, including high moisture areas, without worrying that it will expand, contract, crack, or curl. Installation depends on the type of sheet vinyl, from full-floor glue to glue at the edges, to a loose-lay sheet that does not require glues. Sheet vinyl is great for kitchens, larger bathrooms, and commercial spaces.
Peel and Stick Tiles
These tiles are great for smaller spaces like laundry rooms, half-baths, and bathrooms. Offering the same flexibility as sheet vinyl, but customizable for smaller spaces, they give you the benefits of vinyl flooring at an affordable price. Peel and stick tiles come in an array of designs. You can choose groutable products, which give you the look of ceramic, but at a lower price point.
Why Choose Vinyl
Vinyl is a great flooring choose, whether your clients want sheets, planks, or peel and stick tiles. It comes in a variety of different styles, colors, and designs. Moisture resistant or even waterproof, it is great for rooms that get wet, like bathrooms, mudrooms, and kitchens. It can also handle plenty of foot traffic and stand up to daily wear and tear.
