All about vinyl surfaces

In recent years we have heard more and more about vinyl flooring as a new, modern type of floor covering. But is it really as good as it is said to be? How does it differ from classic laminate flooring and parquet?

The following is a summary of the main characteristics of PVC surfaces that should be taken into account when making a purchase.

What are vinyl surfaces really?

Vinyl flooring is a type of plastic flooring made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). The fact that it is a plastic material is often a bit scary as it is associated with materials that are hazardous to health. This is because harmful plasticizers were used in the production of the first PVC surfaces.

However, thanks to technological advances, today's vinyl surfaces are completely safe for health, which is why most reputable manufacturers prefer to have their products regularly tested by external institutes to ensure that the product the customer receives is of the best possible quality.

What format does it come in and how is it installed?

Vinyl surfaces can be found in rolls, in sheets (flexible or more rigid, almost like laminate flooring) or in tiles, both square and other formats (mainly hexagonal), of different thicknesses and consistencies.

As for the installation, this type of surfaces are the most suitable if you want to renovate the floor yourself without the need to go to a professional.

Depending on the format and type of vinyl flooring you choose, we can find in the market different installation systems, which make it so easy to install the new floor that we can do it ourselves. For example: click vinyl floors, self-adhesive vinyl floors, vinyl floors to glue and self-supporting vinyl floors (the latter does not need glue or click system but thanks to its own weight and its anti-slip system remains fixed and immovable).

All types have the same technical characteristics and are incredibly easy to lay. The most complicated is perhaps the glue-down vinyl flooring, for which you might need the help of a professional if you are not an expert handyman. The rest are perfect candidates for a DIY :)

In addition, with this type of surfaces you will not need to do any work at home for any of these installation methods, as they can generally be laid over existing floors and surfaces.

Where can I find it?

Although there are physical establishments in each city where you can take a look, if you do not want to walk the streets you can get information and buy them comfortably from home by accessing websites specialized in vinyl flooring, where you will find all kinds of models, you can request free samples and you will have personalized advice to make a purchase and a proper and satisfactory installation.

Advantages of vinyl flooring

The main advantage of vinyl surfaces over traditional flooring is undoubtedly the price. With this type of floor covering you will not only be saving time and effort in the installation, but also money, since it is the most economical alternative.

On the other hand, its easy installation and the possibility of placing it on existing surfaces, avoiding unnecessary construction work, also earns points compared to other types of flooring.

Another of the strong points of this product that its users value the most is its suitability for installation in the bathroom and kitchen, or in any other room where there is humidity, since it does not spoil and also prevents the appearance of fungi and bacteria.

This way you won't have to worry if any liquid spills while cooking, which will allow you to dedicate yourself to it with total peace of mind and enjoy while you do it.

Another of its most important advantages, which also makes it the right floor for this type of rooms, is its anti-slip properties. However, it is always recommended to read the manufacturer's specifications carefully, as each model is different.

In addition, a much appreciated quality is the number of designs available, practically unlimited in terms of colors and imitation of different materials.

Last but not least, they are easy to clean and care for, which frees you from worries. A weekly cleaning with a damp cloth is usually enough to keep them in perfect condition and not even exposure to the sun for many years is capable of damaging them.

Disadvantages of vinyl flooring

If we talk about the disadvantages, we must take into account that for the more flexible and/or thinner formats (for example, roll formats) you must have a completely smooth floor underneath, otherwise, with time and footfall, the joints will be noticeable.

You should also not have any underlayment underneath (e.g. in case any of the tiles underneath are broken or uneven) as a level floor is required.

On the other hand, in the more flexible formats you will have to be careful with sharp surfaces (e.g. very sharp heels or a knife falling vertically), as they can leave nicks.

In addition, for those who value the footprint, the feel of the tread does not match that of wood, although technology is advancing and they are getting better and better.

And finally, being a plastic product, if you buy a low-quality vinyl flooring, you cannot guarantee that it meets all safety standards or that it does not contain phthalates, so it is always recommended that, since the average price of these surfaces is not very high, you choose a quality one from reputable manufacturers such as Tarkett, Quick Step or Gerflor, to name a few examples.

Designs that adapt to any type of interior decoration

As we mentioned before, one of the main advantages of vinyl surfaces is that they can be found in unimaginable designs, textures and finishes. So if you are looking for a specific design, original or simply suitable for your home, office or premises, this is one of the ideal surfaces for you.

There are those that perfectly imitate wood and stone surfaces, but with all the properties that these do not have.

Within the wood imitations (generally the most demanded) you have them in both slat version (wider or narrower according to preference) and in herringbone, as well as in all imaginable shades (from ash to walnut, through gray or dark tones).

For those who prefer a more minimalist atmosphere, there are completely plain designs on the market (not only in neutral tones but in every color imaginable).

And since the hydraulic tile is still very current, you also have multiple designs in vinyl surfaces that mimic it, without the hassle of tiling a whole room again.

Finally, you can also create combinations of surfaces to generate the most original and eye-catching visual effects, combining colors, formats or textures.

And for those who do not even want to renovate the floor but simply want to give a touch of design to a kitchen or a room, there are also vinyl carpets with ready-made formats and standard sizes that will allow you to give a touch of color with the advantages of anti-humidity and ease of cleaning characteristic of vinyl surfaces.

As you can see, with this type of flooring you can let your imagination run wild and create the most original designs, from Scandinavian to vintage, industrial, retro, rustic, minimalist or classic.

In short, vinyl floors are a real revolution when it comes to dressing up a floor and are increasingly in demand because they offer multiple benefits that most other floors cannot. Enjoy them!