Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl floors work in a variety of different climates. Vinyl flooring is great for those who want to explore different
looks for a lower cost, as it is
available in a range of attractive colors and designs. When installing vinyl flooring in water–susceptible areas, make
sure the perimeter is properly sealed with a
high–quality silicone caulking compound.
Pros
- Vinyl flooring is suitable for almost all climates
- Can be installed below, on, or above grade (grade = ground level)
- Moisture–resistant surface
Cons
- Pooling liquids may seep into the tile seams of unsealed vinyl and damage the subfloor
- Slippery when wet
- Generally not suitable for outdoor installation
- Sunlight can affect vinyl floor's color and cause fading
Vinyl Flooring Climate Tips
- Install a vapor barrier* if you have a crawl space or you're installing over a concrete slab
- Keep floor color even by regularly rotating furniture and rugs so that all floor areas receive an equal amount of sun
exposure
- Use UV protection (solar screens) on windows or close drapes and blinds on sunny days
- Seal up any split vinyl floor seams immediately to prevent further damage
*Vapor barrier is a layer of material between the floor and subfloor.
