Vinyl plank flooring is a great option for homeowners who want to combine both function and style. It’s a modern, popular flooring choice that can give you the look of natural hardwood without the maintenance or expense.
Made from multiple layers of synthetic materials, the best vinyl plank flooring offers a variety of benefits, including resistance to wear and tear, and comes in a wide range of colours, textures, and sizes.
If you’re upgrading your flooring and you believe vinyl plank flooring might be right for your home, here’s what you should know.
What Is Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring is manufactured synthetic flooring that’s designed to imitate the look of hardwood. It’s constructed from several layers of materials that offer the strength and durability of hardwood without the need for upkeep.
The layers that make up vinyl plank flooring include:
- Backing layer: Bottom layer that provides structural support
- Core layer: Thickest part of each plank that offers stability, impact resistance, and resistance to water
- Design layer: The printed image on the plank that gives it the look of natural wood
- Wear layer: A transparent coating that makes the planks resistant to stains, scratches, and everyday wear-and-tear
Why Is Vinyl Plank Flooring One of the Most Durable Choices?
One of the primary reasons people choose vinyl plank flooring is its durability. Each plank features a wear layer that protects against scratches, scuffs, and fading. Most vinyl plank flooring is also water-resistant, making it ideal for laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Vinyl planks also feature a rigid core layer that resists dents and helps your floor maintain its shape over time. Even under heavy objects and frequent impact, vinyl plank flooring stands up.
Popular Styles
Another reason homeowners love vinyl plank flooring is that it comes in such a wide range of styles. This type of flooring closely mimics the look of natural hardwood, so you get the high-end appearance you want without the drawbacks of natural wood flooring.
Some of the most popular styles of vinyl planks mimic natural wood types, such as:
- Oak
- Maple
- Walnut
- Reclaimed wood
- Wide plank
You get the exact look you want from natural wood, but with added durability and resistance to wear and tear.
What Should You Look for When Choosing Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Not all vinyl plank flooring is created equally. If you’re upgrading your flooring and want to make sure you get the best product possible, consider the following:
- Wear layer thickness
- Waterproofing or water-resistance
- Core type
- Surface texture
- Plank dimension
- Warranty
What Rooms Work Best with Vinyl Plank Flooring?
You can use vinyl plank flooring in any room. However, there are some rooms for which it works especially well due to common exposure to spills and foot traffic. Most homeowners love vinyl plank flooring for:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Basements
- Laundry rooms
- Living rooms
- Entryways and hallways
Maintaining Vinyl Plank Flooring
One of the main features that draws homeowners to vinyl plank flooring is how easy it is to maintain. You can get the look of hardwood without having to sand, refinish, or seal the floor. Most homeowners do little more than sweep, vacuum, and occasionally mop their floors.
And because the surface resists stains and moisture, most spills can be wiped up quickly without having to worry about any permanent damage. This makes this type of flooring an excellent choice for the busiest households where floors are exposed to children, pets, and guests.
Is Vinyl Plank Flooring Right for Your Home?
Choosing flooring that’s right for your home shouldn’t be frustrating. Having expert guidance makes the process an enjoyable experience that results in a flooring upgrade you’ll love for years to come.
Working with a flooring expert also means you’ll have someone who can guide you through the process of finding just the right vinyl plank flooring for your home. This includes comparing colours and choosing from various plank sizes and textures. They’ll also help you with installation options so you can be sure your new flooring complements your home’s style, performs well in the space, and provides lasting value for years to come.
To learn more or to speak with someone about the best vinyl plank flooring for your home, visit us at Rêve Interior Design Studio.
