Pros and Cons of Buying Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl is a practical and affordable choice for many flooring applications. Many homeowners prefer the use of vinyl in their kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and other high traffic areas. Still, other remodelers choose higher end materials. The choice is yours, but you should have all the facts. Here are the pros and cons when considering buying vinyl flooring.
Pros
- Affordable
- Comfortable/quiet to walk on
- Easy installation
- Stain resistant
- Glass items may not break when dropped on vinyl floors, making this material a good option for kitchens and dining areas
- Waterproof (good for areas prone to spilling – kitchens, bathrooms, etc)
- Easily customizable (can be cut in different shapes and is available in many colors)
- Variety of textures and materials - distressed, low gloss, and textured are just a few of your options
- Comes in rolls that measure 6 /9/12 feet, so you can often cover an entire floor surface without a seam
- Can mimic more expensive materials (hardwood, ceramic)
- Easy to maintain/clean
Cons
- Susceptible to denting
- Susceptible to tearing - less durable than a natural stone or hardwood
- Mildew can develop in seams with excessive exposure to moisture
- Slippery when wet
- Difficult to remove and replace - It's an acceptable practice to lay another sheet of vinyl over the existing one, but thereafter, it gets tricky
- Prone to dulling over time (preventable with regular waxing and maintenance)
- Some environmental concerns (may emit Volatile Organic Compounds)
When choosing a flooring material determine whether or not you will be installing your floor in a high-traffic area prone to spills, or whether or not a customizable design is a priority. Beyond this, consider how long you will require the floor to last, as well as your remodeling budget. Weigh these pros and cons against your personal design and remodeling needs to make the right flooring choice for your home.
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