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Blog banner: the longevity of vinyl flooring and how to increase it

The Longevity of Vinyl Flooring, and How To Extend It.

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice for its durability, ease of maintenance, and affordability. It offers a versatile range of styles, from replicating beautiful hardwood to mimicking sleek ceramic tiles, making it suitable for almost any room in the house. However, like any flooring, vinyl’s longevity depends significantly on how well it is cared for. Here are essential strategies to extend the life of your vinyl flooring, ensuring it remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Understanding Vinyl Flooring

Before diving into maintenance strategies, it’s important to understand the different types of vinyl flooring available:

  • Sheet Vinyl: This type is known for its water resistance and is typically used in large, continuous pieces, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Vinyl Tiles: These mimic the look of ceramic tiles and are often used in kitchens and entryways.
  • Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): LVP is designed to replicate hardwood and is favoured for its realistic appearance and texture.

Preventive Measures for Longevity

1. Proper Installation

Ensure your vinyl flooring is installed correctly—poor installation can lead to issues like buckling, gaps, and peeling. Professional installation can help prevent these problems and extend the floor’s lifespan.

2. Use Protective Pads

Attach felt pads to the legs of furniture to prevent scratches and scuffs on your vinyl flooring. This is particularly important for heavy furniture that might indent the vinyl.

3. Regular Cleaning

Keep your vinyl floors clean to prevent dirt and grit from scratching the surface. Sweep daily, and when needed, use a damp mop with a cleaner specified for vinyl flooring. Avoid abrasive cleaners and tools, as these can damage the surface.

4. Spill Management

Clean spills immediately to prevent stains or damage. Vinyl is moisture-resistant, but letting spills sit can degrade the adhesive or seep through the edges, causing lifting or warping.

Routine Maintenance Tips

1. Deep Cleaning

Perform a deep clean every few months using a vinyl-specific cleaner. This removes built-up grime and restores the flooring’s shine. Avoid using wax, polish, or any ‘mop and shine’ products as they can leave a dull film on vinyl.

2. Avoid Rubber-backed Mats

Rubber-backed mats can cause discoloration in vinyl flooring. Instead, use non-staining mats or rugs, especially in high-traffic areas, to protect the floor and keep dirt and debris off the surface.

3. Minimise Sun Exposure

UV light can cause vinyl flooring to fade and deteriorate over time. Use curtains or blinds to protect your floors from direct sunlight, or consider applying UV-protective window films.

Technological Advances in Vinyl Flooring Care

1. Enhanced Coatings

Many modern vinyl floors come with enhanced coatings that are more scratch and stain-resistant than ever before. These coatings can significantly extend the life of your flooring by providing an extra layer of protection.

2. Waterproof Vinyl Options

Advancements in vinyl production have led to fully waterproof options, ideal for bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is prevalent.

Repair and Replacement

1. Scratch and Dent Repair

For minor scratches, some manufacturers offer repair kits specifically for vinyl flooring. For deeper scratches or dents, replacement of the affected tiles or planks might be necessary.

2. Section Replacement

One of the advantages of vinyl tiles and planks is that you can replace damaged sections without having to redo the entire floor. Keep extra tiles or planks from the original installation for this purpose.

Conclusion

With proper care and maintenance, vinyl flooring can last up to 20 years or more. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your vinyl floors remain in excellent condition, adding beauty and value to your home.

Easipay Carpets can help you get brand new flooring without the high up-front cost – by simply letting you spread the cost of the flooring over time instead. There’s no interest on our plans so you aren’t spending a penny more than you would buying it outright and we include underlay, door trims, carpet grippers and laminate beading for free. Prices start from just £10 per week! 

It starts with a free home appointment and quote, to get booked in at a time that suits you, tap the “Get Started” button below and fill out the contact form!

Still Got Questions? Here's 10 FAQs!

With proper maintenance, vinyl flooring can last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the quality of the material and the level of traffic.

It is generally advised not to use steam cleaners on vinyl flooring as the high heat can cause the vinyl to warp or peel.

Yes, vinyl flooring is good for homes with pets because it’s durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.

Use a paste of baking soda and water for tough stains. Gently rub the paste on the stain with a soft cloth and rinse with water.

Use window treatments to block or filter sunlight. Choosing vinyl flooring with UV inhibitors can also help prevent fading.

Luxury vinyl planks and tiles tend to be more durable than sheet vinyl due to their construction and the materials used.

Remove any visible water immediately. Use a dehumidifier to dry out the room, and consider removing the vinyl to prevent mould or further damage.

Heavy furniture can indent vinyl flooring over time. Use furniture pads and occasionally move heavy pieces to distribute their weight.

Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas, clean the floor regularly, and consider using higher-grade vinyl in these areas.

Yes, thicker vinyl flooring generally offers better durability and resistance to wear and tear, contributing to a longer lifespan.

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