Resilient Vinyl Flooring: The Ultimate Guide to Pros, Cons, Cost, Installation, and Maintenance

by Keira July 15, 2023

written by Keira July 15, 2023

Resilient Vinyl Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide

Types of Resilient Vinyl Flooring

Resilient vinyl flooring encompasses various categories, each with unique installation methods and advantages.

Resilient Sheet Vinyl: This is the most common type, consisting of thin, flexible sheets of vinyl with a printed design and transparent wear layer. It is ideal for wet locations like bathrooms due to its seamless installation.
Resilient Vinyl Tiles: Similar to sheet vinyl, these are sold in boxes of square pieces that can be glued down or installed with a pre-applied adhesive.
Luxury Vinyl: A thicker, semi-rigid form of flooring that comes in long planks (LVP) or tiles (LVT). Marketed as rigid-core vinyl by some manufacturers, these products offer enhanced rigidity and are usually installed as floating floors that snap together.

Cost of Resilient Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is generally affordable, ranging from $0.50 to $10 per square foot. Sheet vinyl and standard vinyl tiles are the most economical options, while luxury vinyl is more expensive. Professional installation costs typically range from $1 to $3 per square foot.

Maintenance and Repair

Vinyl flooring is easy to care for. Regular sweeping and damp mopping with an approved cleaner can remove dirt and stains. Printed vinyl and luxury vinyl have a protective wear layer that resists stains and spills. However, vinyl can be susceptible to discoloration from rubber and should be protected from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Design

Vinyl flooring is versatile and can complement various room styles. It is ideal for moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and mudrooms. Luxury vinyl planks and tiles with realistic wood or stone designs can also be used in more formal spaces. However, standard sheet vinyl may appear less appealing in non-functional rooms.

Installation

Installation methods vary depending on the type of vinyl flooring. Sheet vinyl is glued down, while standard vinyl tiles can be glued down or installed with peel-and-stick backing. Luxury vinyl planks and tiles use a click-lock edge connection and typically float over an underlayment. Careful layout and a flat subfloor are crucial for a successful installation. DIY installation is feasible for standard vinyl tiles and luxury vinyl, but sheet vinyl may require professional assistance.

Top Brands of Resilient Vinyl Flooring

Reputable manufacturers of resilient vinyl flooring include:

Armstrong: Offers a wide range of sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl planks, and tiles at affordable prices.
Mohawk: Known for its CoreTec line of luxury vinyl, which is both durable and budget-friendly.
Shaw: Provides a variety of vinyl flooring options, including sheet vinyl, vinyl tiles, and luxury vinyl.
Karndean: Specializes in high-quality glue-down tiles and luxury vinyl flooring.

Comfort and Convenience

Vinyl flooring is comfortable underfoot and does not get cold in the winter. Some products feature a padded underlayer for added comfort. However, vinyl flooring can release volatile chemicals during installation, which may cause respiratory issues or irritation in sensitive individuals.

Environmental Impact

Vinyl flooring is not biodegradable and can contribute to landfill waste. It also consumes non-renewable resources during manufacturing. Consider eco-friendly alternatives if environmental concerns are a priority.

Is Resilient Vinyl Flooring Right for You?

Resilient vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. It is also an economical option that will not significantly impact real estate value in non-luxury applications. Luxury vinyl can add value to a home with its premium appearance, but it is not an environmentally friendly choice.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.