So if you’re looking for something that’s easy to install, maintain, and fix then vinyl plank might be the best option for you!
However, there are also a few downsides you should be aware of.
This post will explore some of the pros and cons of vinyl plank flooring to help you decide if it’s right for you and your family.
Pros of vinyl plank flooring
A major advantage of vinyl plank flooring is that it is water-resistant. Therefore minor surface water and spills will not damage the flooring. This fact alone makes it an excellent choice for pet owners and parents concerned about accidents, or those looking for new flooring for their bathroom or kitchen.
Well-liked by businesses and households for its durability, and simplicity of upkeep. The only maintenance vinyl requires is regular sweeping and mopping.
Vinyl plank flooring can be installed on almost any subfloor, with thicker vinyl being a better (and more forgiving) choice for poor subflooring. Luxury vinyl plank installation methods include click lock, glue down, or loose lay approach which makes it perfect for DIYists.
There is simply not a better choice for people on a budget, that don’t want to pay the price of genuine wood or tile.
The main benefits are:
Ease of Use – Vinyl has been created to be easy to install and maintain. This is why it’s become so common in homes all over the world! Vinyl can be cut into shape, and then installed without any special equipment.
Vinyl plank flooring is water-resistant, meaning it is the ideal flooring for bathrooms and kitchens where water is present.
It’s very easy to clean with soap and water, making it perfect for busy families who may not have time to vacuum every day!
Strength – Vinyl planks are durable, so they won’t scratch easily. There are also many different grades and thicknesses to choose from.
Vinyl plank is affordable, costing a lot less than the price of hardwood or even laminate.
Choice – Vinyl plank flooring comes in thousands of colors, patterns, and styles. This means you can create your dream house without spending a fortune on real hardwood! Does it get any better than that?
Versatility – Vinyl flooring can be installed on any flat subfloor. Installation can be either floating floor, glued down, or lose lay.
Cons of vinyl plank flooring
There are drawbacks to every product, and vinyl plank flooring is no exception. The removal of vinyl plank flooring is reported to be difficult, especially if you glue it down. It’s suggested that you avoid glue when laying vinyl as a temporary option in order for the removal process to be as simple as possible.
Vinyl plank flooring is quite durable, but it is a softer material than most laminates, hardwoods, and tiles. Vinyl flooring can be easily pierced with sharp objects.
A vinyl plank has a different protective layer than laminate flooring. This layer is not UV-resilient and will age and discolor with time.
Vinyl floor is non-degradable, so if you are environmentally conscious you may want to choose alternative flooring.
The main drawbacks are:
Lifespan – Like all flooring, the color and finish of vinyl plank flooring will eventually fade and deteriorate. As a minimum, I’d expect a vinyl floor to last 5+ years.
Wearability – Some vinyl flooring is not suitable for high-traffic areas. However, excessive wear can be avoided by selecting the appropriate grade of Vinyl.
Fading– Can show fading over time when exposed to UV light excessively.
Warranty – Flooring is a large investment and some manufacturers may not cover the flooring if it is installed by a non-professional. This will be the same no matter which flooring you choose.
Inconsistent quality – It can be difficult to know what you are buying until you begin the installation.
Cannot be refinished – Vinyl only has a thin wear layer, so once this is damaged the flooring will need to be replaced.
Will not increase home value – Unlike hardwood & engineered hardwood vinyl will offer little (if anything) in terms of “money-back” by increasing the value of your home.
While there are numerous benefits and some drawbacks to vinyl flooring it is likely you are considering vinyl because of the relatively cheaper cost than other floorings on the market.
Vinyl is ideal temporary flooring for those that fully expect to upgrade to laminate, hardwood, or even tile in the future – but need a practical, good-looking floor in the meantime.
Make sure you order samples before committing yourself – quality vinyl plank flooring will make the whole installation process more enjoyable, and the final result that much better.
