Types of Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl Flooring. You’ve probably at least heard of it, but do you know what it is? Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring material that is versatile, durable, and cost-effective. It has become an increasingly popular choice, and we’ve been asked to install it in more and more homes in recent years.

At Scharm Floor Covering, we want you to have all the facts and know all of your options before you make a decision about your floors. The floors are a very important part of any home, and it’s not a decision that should be made impulsively. Not sure if vinyl floors are right for your home? Read below for a full explanation of the different types of vinyl flooring.

What Are the Different Types of Vinyl Flooring?

Sheet Vinyl: Sheet vinyl is installed in large sheets that are available in different widths. The seams go together well and are easy to hide for a cohesive look.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) and Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP): LVT is a cheaper alternative to ceramic tile and can either be glued down or installed using a click and lock system. Luxury Vinyl Tiles can be embossed to provide texture, offering an authentic look. LVT is available in a variety of styles, designs, and patterns. Luxury Vinyl Planks are the same as vinyl tile, they just come in a variety of wood grain looks and style. LVT comes in multiple sizes and can be combined for a modular look. Luxury Vinyl Planks are also harder and more impact resistant. It is important to note that all types of vinyl, even LVT and LVP require proper preparation. Without preparation, the flooring will not last and will cause you problems in the future.

Groutable Luxury Vinyl Tile and Planks: Most groutable vinyls are made from a limestone and vinyl composite. The limestone makes them harder and more impact resistant. If you’re looking for a more natural and real look, groutable vinyl is the way to go.

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC): WPC, more commonly known as “Water Proof Core,” is a “composite material made of thermoplastics, calcium carbonate, and wood flour.” It is known for being completely waterproof, rigid, and more stable. WPC can span over imperfections in the subfloor with little preparation and can be directly installed over most subfloors. WPC is ideal for basements and bathrooms, as it won’t be damaged by potential leaks. WPC makes for harder floors and is perfect for commercial properties. Wood Plastic Composite is considered to be the future of vinyl flooring.

Rigid Vinyl Floors: This is the next generation of WPC. It is more durable and harder, making it the best choice for commercial flooring projects.

As easy as most types of vinyl can be to work with, there are still some pitfalls and challenges you will face if proper care and attention to detail aren’t taken. With any type of vinyl flooring, proper preparation must be taken, especially because vinyl is very impressionable. If the floor is not smooth, you will have major issues. Vinyl must be installed over a very smooth surface. If it is installed over concrete, we use a cement based skim coat floor patch to make the surface smooth. If it is installed over wood floors, we use a quarter inch birch or poplar plywood underlayment.

Now that you know all the vinyl flooring options available to you, we’re here to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to stop by our Des Plaines showroom to see the different types in person and speak to our flooring experts. We will take the time to learn about your space and advise you on the right vinyl flooring for your project.

Interested in installing vinyl floors in your home or office space? Contact Scharm Floor Covering today, or give us a call at (847) 298-8233!