Like real hardwood
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is a type of flooring that is made to look like real hardwood or stone. It is composed of multiple layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and has a protective coating on top.
Very resistant
This type of flooring is very durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic and everyday wear and tear. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is also very easy to maintain as it only requires regular sweeping or vacuuming and an occasional cleaning with a damp mop. It is also resistant to fading, staining, and water damage, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas in the home.
What is vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring is an engineered floor covering designed to look like hardwood flooring. It is made up of several layers of vinyl that are laminated together, and it can be installed as either a floating floor or with adhesive. Vinyl plank flooring is more durable, water-resistant, and easier to maintain than hardwood flooring, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas.
How much does vinyl plank flooring cost?
The cost of vinyl plank flooring can vary depending on the brand, style, and quality. Generally, vinyl plank flooring costs between $2 and $7 per square foot.
Is vinyl plank flooring waterproof?
Yes, vinyl plank flooring is waterproof. It is made of a composite material that is highly resistant to water and moisture, making it an excellent choice for areas that are prone to moisture or spills.
How do you install vinyl plank flooring?
Prepare the Subfloor: Make sure the subfloor is clean, dry and level. If not, use a self-leveling compound to level out any dips.
Prepare the Room: Remove all furniture and fixtures from the room and sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any dirt or debris.
Layout the Vinyl Plank Flooring: Starting in one corner, lay out the planks in the desired pattern. Measure the distance between the wall and the last plank and trim it to size using a utility knife.
Install the First Row: Apply adhesive to the subfloor and starting in the corner, place the first plank in position. Use a rubber mallet to tap it into place.
Install Subsequent Rows: Repeat the process for each subsequent row, making sure to stagger the ends of each row by at least 8”.
Seal the Seams: Once all the planks are installed, apply seam sealer to the seams and joints. Allow the sealer to dry before walking on the floor.
Does vinyl plank flooring require underlayment?
Yes, vinyl plank flooring usually requires underlayment. Underlayment helps to improve sound insulation, act as a moisture barrier, and create a smoother, more even surface for the flooring.
How long does vinyl plank flooring last?
Vinyl plank flooring is known for its durability, and with proper care, it can last up to 25 years.
Is vinyl plank flooring easy to maintain?
Yes, vinyl plank flooring is easy to maintain. It can be easily cleaned with a damp mop and doesn’t require waxing or buffing like other types of flooring.
What is the best type of vinyl plank flooring?
The best type of vinyl plank flooring depends on your individual needs. If you are looking for a durable and long lasting option, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a great choice. It is waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. If you want something with more character, engineered vinyl plank (EVP) is a great option. It has a wood-like appearance and comes in a variety of colors and styles. For those looking for an eco-friendly option, cork vinyl plank flooring is a great choice. It is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for those with allergies or asthma.
Are there any health risks associated with vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring is generally considered to be safe, however, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with any type of flooring. Potential health risks include off-gassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause headaches, dizziness, and other health symptoms. Additionally, some types of vinyl plank flooring can contain chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and other toxic substances that may be released into the air over time. It is important to ensure that the vinyl plank flooring you purchase is certified by a reputable organization such as FloorScore or GreenGuard to help ensure it meets health and safety standards.
Which are the best rooms where to install vinyl plank flooring?
Vinyl plank flooring can be installed in any room in your home. However, it is especially suitable for rooms with high traffic or moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, hallways, and laundry rooms. It is also a great choice for bedrooms, living rooms, dens, and basements.
Pros:
Cons:
-Vinyl plank flooring is a cost-effective and attractive alternative to hardwood and natural stone flooring.
-It is easy to install and can be installed over most existing surfaces.
-Vinyl plank flooring is water resistant and durable, making it an ideal choice for areas of high moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms.
-It is available in a variety of colors, styles, and designs to match any home décor.
-Vinyl plank flooring is easy to clean and maintain, and it can be easily repaired if damaged.
-Vinyl plank flooring can become slippery when wet, so it is not the best choice for areas where there is a risk of slipping.
-It can be prone to scratching, denting, and staining if not cared for properly.
-Vinyl plank flooring is not very environmentally friendly and may contain toxins that can be released into the air.
-The adhesive used to install vinyl plank flooring can be difficult to remove, making it difficult to replace.
Which are the best styles when using luxury viny plank flooring?
- Herringbone
- Chevron
- Plank
- Parquet
- Brick
- Staggered
- Geometric
- Mixed Width
- Pinwheel
- Diagonal
It is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that is designed to look like herringbone-patterned wood planks. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, ranging from natural wood tones to bright and bold colors. Herringbone luxury vinyl planks are made from a combination of PVC, vinyl, and other materials, which makes them durable and long lasting. The planks are installed with a click-lock system, making installation quick and easy. They are also waterproof and scratch-resistant, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Herringbone luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great choice for any space, as it is both stylish and functional.
Chevron luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great option for those looking for a stylish and durable flooring option. This type of flooring is made from multiple layers of PVC, which makes it highly resistant to water and wear and tear. It also has a much longer lifespan than other types of flooring, which means you’ll get years of use out of it. Chevron luxury vinyl plank flooring comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, so you can choose the perfect look for your home. It’s also easy to install and maintain, making it a great choice for any home.
It is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add style and sophistication to their homes. Parquet luxury vinyl plank flooring is made from a durable, waterproof material and is available in a variety of wood grain and stone tile options. This type of flooring is easy to install and maintain, and is a great choice for areas that experience high moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. In addition, Parquet luxury vinyl plank flooring can be installed over existing floors, allowing you to customize your home without the hassle of a full renovation.
Brick luxury vinyl plank flooring is a type of flooring designed to look like real brick. It typically consists of vinyl planks that are designed to simulate the look, feel, and texture of real brick. This type of flooring is usually more affordable and easier to install than real brick and can be used to create a classic, timeless look in any room. Brick luxury vinyl plank flooring is available in a variety of colors and styles, making it easy to find one that will fit into any décor.
Geometric luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great choice for homeowners looking for a stylish, modern look that is also durable and easy to maintain. These planks are made from a combination of PVC and fiberglass, making them resistant to scratches and scuffs, as well as water and moisture. The unique geometric patterns provide an eye-catching design element, while the plank construction adds stability and noise reduction. This type of flooring is available in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to customize your flooring to fit your specific style.
Diagonal luxury vinyl plank flooring is a great option for those looking to add a touch of high-end style to their home. This type of flooring is made from a durable, waterproof material that is easy to maintain and clean. Diagonal luxury vinyl planks come in a variety of colors, textures, and styles, making it easy to find the perfect look for your home. The best part about this type of flooring is that it’s relatively easy to install, making it a great DIY project for homeowners. Additionally, it is often very cost-effective compared to other types of flooring, making it a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
The difference in terms of price between vinyl plank flooring and luxury vinyl plank flooring can be significant. Vinyl plank flooring is typically less expensive than luxury vinyl plank flooring, usually by about 30-50%. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is usually more expensive because it offers a higher quality product with better wear resistance, durability, and a wider range of designs.
Precautions when installing vinyl plank flooring
Make sure to measure the area where you plan to install the vinyl plank flooring.
Make sure your subfloor is clean and level before you start installation.
Leave a gap between the flooring and walls to allow for expansion and contraction.
Use a good quality underlayment to ensure proper cushioning and sound absorption.
Wear safety glasses and gloves when cutting the vinyl planks.
Clean up any excess glue or adhesive immediately after installation.
Avoid walking on the vinyl planks until they are completely dried and installed.
Statistics about vinyl plank flooring in Australia
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in the year ending May 2020, there were approximately 7.3 million square metres of vinyl plank flooring sold in Australia.
In the same year, the average price of vinyl plank flooring in Australia was $34.50 per square metre.
The most popular types of vinyl plank flooring in Australia are luxury, rigid core, and loose lay.
In 2020, one in five households in Australia had vinyl plank flooring installed.
The most popular colour for vinyl plank flooring in Australia is grey.
Victoria’s Best Flooring provides the best range matched with the right advice from friendly industry professionals.