The vinyl offered today is quite different than the vinyl of yesterday. Advances in construction and aesthetics have produced fashionable products that are both durable and affordable. Many of the popular patterns today are inspired by nature, including those that imitate the exquisite look of natural stone. With an abundance of patterns and new methods of texturing the surface, very realistic looks have been achieved.
Sheet vinyl is constructed of several different layers: the wear layer, the printed or decorative layer, an inner core consisting of a foam and vinyl layer and a backing. When selecting sheet vinyl, thicker is not always better. The density of the inner core is what will help your floor resist rips, tears, gouges and indentations. Additionally, the quality of the wearlayer, which is the actual surface layer of the floor, will determine how your floor will stand up to staining, scuffing and scratching. For example, a urethane wearlayer will help with stain resistance.
When selecting the right sheet vinyl for the rooms in your home, consider the room's foot traffic and the types of activities that will take place. Ask your design consultant to review with you the manufacturers' warranty and performance characteristics of the products that are available.
Since vinyl comes in 6' and 12' widths, seaming may be necessary depending on the area to be covered. Certain patterns will hide seams better. For example, tile patterns with grout lines are better able to mask seams. Additionally, seam sealers may be visible in contrast with different vinyl textures and finishes.
No matter which vinyl you choose, under extreme conditions, sheet vinyl can dent or tear. Stiletto heels can also dent or scratch your floor. Damage of this nature is not covered by warranty.
Place walk off mats at each entryway to collect dirt and grit that might be tracked in. These tiny particles act like sandpaper and will scratch your floor. Be sure to avoid using rubber-backed mats or rugs as they can damage and potentially discolor your floor instead use mats made especially for sheet vinyl floors and remember to shake them out regularly.
Take great precaution when moving heavy furniture or appliances. Using sheets of plywood when moving objects will protect your floor. Always cover table and chair legs with protectors designed to safeguard vinyl. Also, be aware that homeowners are responsible to maintain caulking in heavy water use areas.
Taking regular care of your sheet vinyl is simple and can add years to the life of your floor.
Remove dust and grit particles frequently by sweeping or vacuuming. Don't use a vacuum with a beater bar as it may scratch your floor. The attachments that come with your vacuum are useful to clean the edges or to get to hard to reach areas.
When sweeping or vacuuming does not remove dirt, mop the floor with clean warm water. Rinse the floor thoroughly with fresh water. If water alone does not clean the surface, use cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer of the flooring. Flooring manufacturers' recommendations for particular cleaning products do vary.
For spots or spills, use a clean cloth to wipe the cleaner onto the floor. Avoid highly abrasive scrubbing tools, as they will leave scratches. Rinse the floor thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean cloth. This will enhance the shine on your floor. If you use a commercial product, make sure the floor manufacturer recommends the product and that the product label indicates "self-cleaning" meaning you will not get an accumulation of wax on your floor.
Protect your vinyl floor from damage, by coverings the legs of furniture with felt protectors.
Take great precaution when moving heavy furniture or appliances. Using sheets of plywood when moving objects will protect your floor. Always cover table and chair legs with protectors designed to safeguard vinyl. Be sure to avoid using rubber-backed mats or rugs as they can damage and potentially discolor your floor instead use mats made especially for sheet vinyl floors and remember to shake them out regularly.
No matter which vinyl you choose, all sheet vinyl can dent or tear; and damage of this nature is not covered by warranty. For example, stiletto heels can dent or scratch your vinyl floor.
Homeowners are responsible to maintain caulking in heavy water use areas.
