Sheet vinyl, also known as resilient, is one of the most affordable flooring solution available. Vinyl offers a vast array of choices in terms of color and design. Its ease of installation, versatility, low maintenance, attractiveness, and high durability make vinyl a popular flooring choice.
Sheet vinyl is a layered construction coated with a "wear layer" that seals the vinyl and creates a finished look that can range from a natural matte to a glossy shine. Sheet vinyl typically comes in 6', 12' and 13'2" widths and almost any length.
There are four typical layers to sheet vinyl construction:
- Protective top coat: This coat is urethane or another high-performance top coat which make the product easy to clean and resist scratches and scuffs.
- Protective clear vinyl layer: This layer adds durability and can protect against rips, tears and gouges. The thicker this layer, the better the performance. The flooring's appearance retention and durability is mostly dependent on the quality and thickness of the clear wear layer.
- Printed vinyl design layer: The rotogravure printing process offers an unlimited range of patterns and designs, including very realistic interpretations of natural materials.
- Backing: The backing layer can be made of either felt or vinyl encapsulated fiberglass. How sheet vinyl flooring can be installed is determined by the backing.
- Felt: Felt bottom layer that is adhered to the subfloor. It is the most common of sheet vinyl floors today.
- Fiberglass: A structural layer of fiberglass with vinyl above and below adds more dimensionally stability. A vinyl cushion backing provides added underfoot comfort. This floor lays flat and can be installed without glue.
You can use vinyl virtually anywhere in your home. Since it can be installed below grade level, it makes an excellent choice for basements..
- Although vinyl is waterproof, the installation adhesive is water-soluble. Do not over-expose vinyl floors to water around the perimeter or near any seams.
- Thicker is better! If you plan to install vinyl flooring in a high traffic area or in a primary bathroom, or if the floor needs to withstand wear from children and pets, choose a thicker vinyl with a urethane or enhanced urethane wear layer.
- Avoid using sheet vinyl on stairs, as it is meant for flat, level surfaces.