Lituañas, Jayzel M.

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VINYL FLOORING

Definition

Vinyl flooring is a synthetic flooring material made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin,
along with various additives for durability and flexibility. It often mimics the appearance of natural
materials like wood or stone and comes in sheets, tiles, or planks. Vinyl flooring is popular for its
affordability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance.
Vinyl flooring is extremely water-resistant and won’t sustain damage even if water sits on
the surface for an extended amount of time. Composed of plastic, it’s available in plank, tile and
sheet form.

Advantages:

Vinyl flooring has become a popular choice for homeowners and commercial spaces due
to its numerous advantages. Here are some of the key benefits of vinyl flooring:

● Durability: Vinyl flooring is known for its durability and resilience. It can withstand heavy
foot traffic, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and
entryways. Many vinyl products also come with wear layers that protect against
scratches, stains, and dents.

● Water Resistance: Vinyl is inherently resistant to water, making it an excellent choice for
areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. This resistance
helps prevent damage from spills and moisture-related issues like mold and mildew.
 ● Easy Maintenance: Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and
occasional mopping are usually sufficient to keep it looking new. Unlike some other
flooring options, vinyl doesn't require specialized cleaning products or treatments.

● Variety of Styles: Vinyl flooring comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns,
including designs that mimic natural materials like wood, stone, and tile. This versatility
allows homeowners to achieve the look they want without the cost and maintenance
associated with natural materials.

● Comfort Underfoot: Vinyl flooring is softer and more comfortable underfoot compared to
some other hard flooring options like tile or hardwood. This makes it a popular choice for
areas where people stand for extended periods, such as kitchens.

● Affordability: Vinyl flooring is often more affordable than other flooring options like
hardwood or natural stone. This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious
homeowners who still want a stylish and durable flooring solution.

● Easy Installation: Vinyl flooring is relatively easy to install, and some products come with
click-lock or adhesive backing systems that simplify the installation process. This can
potentially save on installation costs, especially for those who choose to do it
themselves.

● Resistant to Fading: Many vinyl flooring products are designed to resist fading from
exposure to sunlight. This makes them suitable for rooms with large windows or areas
that receive a lot of natural light.

● Noise Reduction: Vinyl flooring can help reduce noise levels, especially when compared
to hard surfaces like tile or laminate. Some vinyl products come with an attached
underlayment that provides additional sound absorption.

● Environmentally Friendly Options: There are eco-friendly vinyl flooring options available,
such as those made from recycled materials or using low-VOC (volatile organic
compound) adhesives, contributing to sustainability efforts.

Disadvantages:

While vinyl flooring has several advantages, it also comes with some disadvantages that
potential buyers should consider:

● Not Biodegradable: Vinyl flooring is typically not biodegradable, which means that it
doesn't break down naturally over time. This can contribute to environmental concerns,
especially when the flooring is disposed of at the end of its life cycle.
 ● Susceptible to Scratches and Dents: Despite having a wear layer to protect against
damage, vinyl flooring can still be susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly in
high-traffic areas or when heavy furniture is moved across the surface.

● Not as Luxurious as Natural Materials: While vinyl can mimic the look of natural
materials like wood or stone, some homeowners may prefer the authentic feel and
appearance of genuine hardwood, tile, or stone. Vinyl might lack the luxury and
authenticity of these natural materials.

● Limited Repair Options: In the event of damage, repairs to vinyl flooring can be
challenging. Unlike hardwood, which can be sanded and refinished, and tile, which can
be individually replaced, damaged vinyl often requires the replacement of entire
sections.

● VOC Emissions: Some vinyl flooring products may emit volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), especially when they are first installed. VOCs can contribute to indoor air
pollution and may have adverse health effects. Choosing low-VOC or phthalate-free
options can help mitigate this concern.

● Sensitivity to Temperature Changes: Vinyl flooring may be sensitive to extreme

temperature changes. In areas with fluctuating temperatures, the material can expand or
contract, potentially leading to issues like buckling or gaps between the tiles or planks.

● Not Resistant to Sharp Objects: While vinyl is generally durable, it is not completely
immune to damage from sharp objects. High heels, pet claws, or dropped items with
sharp edges can potentially cause cuts or tears in the flooring.

● May Fade Over Time: Despite resistance to some environmental factors, certain vinyl
flooring products may fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight. This is particularly
true for lower-quality or less UV-resistant options.

● Limited Design Options for DIY Repairs: If you want to change the design or pattern of
your floor after installation, it can be challenging with vinyl. Unlike some other flooring
options, vinyl doesn't lend itself well to DIY refinishing or re-staining.

● Indoor Air Quality Concerns: In addition to VOC emissions, there have been some
concerns about the use of certain additives and plasticizers in vinyl flooring that may
impact indoor air quality. Choosing low-emission products and ensuring proper
ventilation during installation can help address these concerns.

Cost:

The cost of vinyl flooring in the Philippines varies depending on several factors,
including:
Type of vinyl: There are several types of vinyl flooring available, including luxury vinyl tile (LVT),
vinyl planks, and vinyl sheets. LVT is the most expensive option, followed by vinyl planks and
vinyl sheets.

Brand: Different brands of vinyl flooring have different price points. Popular brands in the
Philippines include Armstrong, Mannington, and Tarkett.
Thickness: The thickness of the vinyl also affects the price. Thicker vinyl is more durable and
will cost more than thinner vinyl.

Retailer: Prices can vary depending on where you purchase the vinyl flooring. Online retailers
may offer lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores.

Here is a general guide to the cost of vinyl flooring in the Philippines:

Vinyl tiles: ₱200-₱800 per square meter

Vinyl planks: ₱300-₱1,000 per square meter
LVT: ₱500-₱2,000 per square meter

Additional costs:

Underlayment: ₱50-₱100 per square meter

Installation: ₱200-₱500 per square meter
Trims and accessories: ₱50-₱100 per square meter