Vinyl
If you haven't looked at vinyl sheet
lately, you will be amazed by what you see! Whatever type of design you have
in mind, odds are it's available in vinyl. The wide array of vinyl designs
and colors can be a great source of inspiration. Thanks to
state-of-the-art print and embossing technology,
vinyl can replicate both the look and texture of natural materials such as
hardwood, limestone, slate and ceramic.
Vinyl can also convey original
graphic designs that range from traditional to contemporary. Vinyl's appeal
goes beyond good looks. It's one of the easiest floors to live with,
requiring a minimum of maintenance. Its soft, cushy feel is easy to stand
on, kind to backs and knees, and forgiving when objects are dropped. Best of
all, vinyl is one of the most economical flooring choices you can make for
your home.
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What is Vinyl Sheet?
Vinyl sheet is a layered
construction sold in 6' and 12' widths.
There are two types of
construction, typically described by the type of
backing:
Felt represents over 90% of vinyl sheet floors sold today.
Fiberglass is a newer construction format.
Fiberglass is the "cushiest" form of vinyl flooring and offers the
most installation options. |
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The uppermost layers for both types are
identical:
A) Protective top coat:
Urethane or
other high-performance top coats
which make the product easy to clean and
resist scratches and scuffs.
B) Protective clear vinyl layer:
Adds durability and helps protect against rips, tears and gouges. The
thicker this layer, the better the performance. The flooring's appearance
retention and general durability is largely dependent on the quality and
thickness of the clear wear layer.
C) Printed vinyl design layer:
The rotogravure printing process offers an unlimited range of patterns and
designs, including very realistic interpretations of natural materials. The
bottom layers for both constructions differ:
D) Felt:
Felt bottom layer that adheres to the subfloor.
E)
Fiberglass: A fiberglass structural layer makes the product
more dimensionally stable (will not curl, allows it to lay flat, and install
without glue). A cushiony vinyl backing provides added underfoot comfort.
Keep In Mind:·
The type of backing determines how it can be
installed
Where Can
I Use Vinyl Sheet?
Vinyl can be used anywhere in your home.
It's a good choice for high traffic areas such as playrooms, and wet areas
including
bathrooms,
kitchens and laundry rooms. It can be installed
below grade level, making it a good
choice for basements.
Keep In Mind:
1.
Although
vinyl is waterproof, the installation adhesive is water-soluble. Do not
over-expose vinyl floors to water around the perimeter or near any seams.
Thicker is better! If you plan to install
vinyl flooring in a high traffic area or in a primary bathroom, or if the
floor needs to withstand wear from children and pets, choose a thicker (65
mils or greater) vinyl with a
urethane or enhanced urethane wear
layer.
Avoid using vinyl sheet on stairs, as it
is meant for flat, level surfaces.
Floor ScoreÔ
is a trademark of the Resilient Floor Covering Institute.
