8 PROS AND CONS OF GETTING VINYL FLOORING

Vinyl flooring is becoming one of the most popular options in the residential industry. And there's no question why. It's affordable, attractive, and easy to install. 

Read on for our guide on the pros and cons of vinyl floors so you can decide if it's the right choice for your home. 

Pros of Vinyl Floors

Here are a few of the biggest pros associated with vinyl plank flooring.

1. Cost-Effective

Vinyl flooring typically costs less than the other hard flooring options of hardwood or tile. Why pay more when you can get the look of wood without the cost?

Vinyl planking and tile also require less special tools or equipment than when installing tile or wood planks. So the installation costs are typically less expensive as well.       

2. Water-Resistant

Wood floors are highly susceptible to damage from minor water contact. But vinyl flooring is water-resistant, so little spills won't mean disaster. It's also easier to replace a section of vinyl planking if severe water damage occurs.

In Calgary, where the average annual precipitation is over 400mm, you need to consider a flooring material that can withstand contact with water. At Maple Leaf Flooring, we can help you with that.

3. Durable

Vinyl floors in Calgary can vary in durability because it is made in varying thicknesses. The thicker the plank, the more durable it will be. This means that you can get flooring that is better suited to heavy furniture and won't dent like wood or crack like tile. 

4. Low Maintenance

Wood floors need frequent polishing and occasional resealing. The grout between tiles needs special cleaning and resealing on a regular basis too. 

Vinyl floors only need to be kept swept and clean but don't require regular special maintenance or products.

Cons of Vinyl Floors

Before installing vinyl planking, consider these potential factors.

1. Lower Resale Value

Hardwood floors tend to give a home a higher resale value. If you're replacing the flooring in your home so that you can prepare to sell it, then consider the cost savings relative to the list price of your home.                                                                            

2. Difficult to Remove

Vinyl flooring is installed using a heavy-duty adhesive, which can be difficult to remove. It's not an ideal material to use if the flooring is temporary or if you have plans to upgrade or replace them anytime soon. 

3. VOCs

Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs have been detected in many vinyl flooring products. These are gasses that can cause short and long-term health effects after prolonged exposure. 

There are vinyl planking products that do not emit VOCs. Be sure to verify this with your flooring professionals at Maple Leaf Flooring before selecting and installing your floors. 

4. Can Fade in Direct Sun

Similar to wood, vinyl floors in Calgary can fade if they have prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. If the area that gets direct sun can't be protected with a rug, another option may be more suitable.

Remember This

If you're looking for a flooring option that's affordable, strong, low-maintenance, and inexpensive, vinyl floors are the right choice.

Just make sure that you select a product that is thick and free of VOCs. 

Contact Maple Leaf Flooring today for a consultation on installing vinyl planking in your home!