Vinyl Makes a Comeback

Of Late, there has been massive resurgence of vinyl - and no, we are not talking about records, but about vinyl flooring.
A synthetic counterpart of linoleum, vinyl flooring is water- and stain-resistant, versatile and durable and has become a major flooring trendsetter, especially in wet areas in the home.
"Vinyl flooring was first invented in the 1930s, and it remains a popular option today due to a variety of desirable characteristics - the main ones being the fact that it is water-resistant, durable, easily maintained, warm underfoot, and cost effective" explained Kyle Turner from leading sanitary ware and flooring supplier, Bathroom Bizarre.
Moisture resistance:
Vinyl flooring is entirely waterproof, so it can be used virtually anywhere inside the home. It is especially suited to wet areas, where water often ends up on the floor, such as bathroom, kitchens and laundries.
Aesthetic versatility:
Vinyl flooring is available in an incredibly wide range of colors and patterns to suit virtually any decor style. "The most popular types of vinyl designs are those that simulate natural material, such as timber and natural stone for example. Faux timber vinyl flooring is especially popular - it is available in planks, similiar to genuine wooden floorboards, and looks just like genuine timber floors when it is laid.
This allows homeowners to enjoy the look of natural timber in wet areas, without running risk of it warping and flaking" says Kyle.
Quick and Easy Installation:
Vinyl flooring is available in sheets, tiles and planks, and is incredibly easy to install. Sheeting needs to be glued down, and most often, the tiles come with a "peel-and-stick" backing, so it is just a matter of laying them out evenly and neatly.
Vinyl planks on the other hand, are laid in much the same way as laminate flooring - boasting a tongue and groove profile that simply clicks together. "The key to successfully installing vinyl flooring lies beneath the floor itself - vinyl flooring requires an extremely smooth surface, as any flaws or imperfections will show through as bumps and indentations eventually. Vinyl flooring is best laid on top of a layer of well-sanded plywood or smooth concrete screed," explains Kyle.
Durability:
Vinyl flooring is genrally considered to be an incredibly durable flooring option, which if properly installed and well maintained can last between 10 and 20 years. However, as with anything, the quality of the product you purchase will ultimately determine its life span. "Any vinyl flooring worth its salt should have a wear layer. The wear layer is located on top of the vinyl itself, and guarantees that the flooring will enjoy a long life, even in high traffic areas.
Hygienic and stain-resistant:
All you need to do to keep vinyl flooring looking as good as new is to ensire that all grit and dirt are regularly swept or vacummed away, and that it is cleaned with a damp mop and vinyl-approved cleaner whenever required.
Underfoot Comfort:
Vinyl flooring does not get cold, making it a great option for traditionally cold areas in the home. It is a resilent flooring which means that its soft texture provides a little bit of "give" when you walk on it, especially if it has been laid with a foam-type combilay underlay underneath.

article courtesy Northglen News 12 Dec 2014