Vinyl- Before You Buy

Thing to consider before you buy.

If you’re an educated vinyl shopper you have learned that the vinyl flooring of yesterday is long
gone with newer, more durable and more versatile selections to choose from.

We will now introduce you to some product insights, construction points and installation tips
about vinyl flooring you should be aware of before you purchase your flooring.

We’ll also provide a idea of additional costs you should keep in mind; costs that go beyond the
basic price per square foot.

Today’s vinyl flooring offer realistic aesthetics.

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 or wood, with very realistic texturing on the surface.

Vinyl flooring is like the layered cake.

Vinyl is constructed with several different layers: the wear layer, the printed layer, an inner core consisting of foam and vinyl, and the backing.

When selecting your vinyl flooring, thicker is not always better.

The density of the inner core helps your floor resist rips, tears, gouges and indentations, not the thickness.

The top layer is critical.

Understanding that the quality of the wear layer, which is the actual surface layer of the floor,
determines how your floor will perform against stains, scuffs and scratching, is key.

For example, a urethane wear layer will help with stain resistance. Aluminum oxide provides a
tough barrier against scratches and scuffs.

We recommend you consult with us about the wear layer that’s right for your home and lifestyle.
Ask us to review with you the manufacturer’s warranty and performance characteristics of the
products that are available. Extended warranties are available with upgraded products, giving
you added confidence that your floor will stand up to your active household.

Study and know local traffic patterns.

When selecting the right vinyl for the rooms in your home, consider the room’s foot traffic and the types of activities that will take place.

Ask us to review with you the manufacturer’s warranty and performance characteristics of the products that are available.

Usually, extended warranties are available with upgraded products, giving you added confidence that your floor will stand up to your active household.

Will I see my seams?

Because vinyl comes in 6’ and 12’ widths, seaming may be necessary depending on the room be
covered.

Seams are always potentially visible, but patterned products will hide seams better. For example,
tile patterns with grout lines are better able to mask seams.

Seam sealers may also be visible in contrast with different vinyl textures and finishes.

Please note: maintaining the caulking in heavy water use areas is very important!

Knowing the entire cost of ownership.

The “cost per square foot” of your vinyl floor is just one component of the entire cost. To ensure
there are no surprises, be sure to ask us to calculate the total cost of your floor covering project.

Here’s a list of potential additional expenses you may incur:

1 – Appliance/toilet removal/replacement.
2 – Demolition/disposal of old floor covering. Depending on the existing floor covering, this can
be an expensive item.
3 – Subfloor preparation. Because vinyl telegraphs through any imperfections in the subfloor and
depending on the condition of the subfloor when the old flooring is removed, it usually requires
additional prep.
4 – Product delivery.
5 – Vinyl installation. Determine the cost per square foot to install it.
6 – Remove and replace baseboards. As with any hard surface flooring, the baseboards must be
removed in order to install the vinyl. If you have vinyl or rubber base, it must be replaced with
new materials.