The Basics – Learning Center https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center Tue, 22 Mar 2022 20:35:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.1 Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Which One Should You Choose? https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/vinyl-flooring/linoleum-vs-vinyl-flooring-which-one-should-you-choose/ Mon, 06 Sep 2021 19:43:23 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=16642 Durable flooring is important for many home and business owners looking to make an upgrade that will last. Whether you’re starting a new building project or renovating an existing space, there’s a good chance you’ve considered linoleum and vinyl flooring. Ready to upgrade your floor to a beautiful new look . . . Read more

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Durable flooring is important for many home and business owners looking to make an upgrade that will last. Whether you’re starting a new building project or renovating an existing space, there’s a good chance you’ve considered linoleum and vinyl flooring.

Ready to upgrade your floor to a beautiful new look at a low cost? Try Vesdura Vinyl Planks – Sterling Collection SKU: 15270181

Both are resilient materials that can take a beating and still look spectacular. That’s why these materials have been used in high-traffic commercial spaces and busy residential rooms like kitchens and powder rooms for many years.

Once you get down to the nitty-gritty though, it can be a little difficult to figure out whether linoleum or vinyl is a better pick for you. The truth is that most people don’t even really know how these two popular materials differ.

Luckily for you, we’re here to help you get a grasp on linoleum and vinyl flooring once and for all. Use this guide to learn the differences between linoleum and vinyl flooring, and why you should consider one over the other for your home or place of business.

Linoleum vs. Vinyl Flooring: Major Differences

Ask the average person what the difference between linoleum and vinyl flooring is and you’ll probably be greeted with a blank stare. The fact is that the average buyer probably can’t even tell linoleum from vinyl in pictures. There are some major differences between these two flooring products, however.

Linoleum is actually the older of the two materials, with the first patent appearing more than 140 years ago. Made from linseed products, the core materials used in linoleum are naturally occurring, though some manufacturing processes today add an assortment of other ingredients to the mix.

Vinyl flooring grew in popularity around the 1920s and 1930s. Unlike linoleum, vinyl is completely synthetic, made up of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Most products utilize a fiberglass or felt backing, though other styles do exist today.

Appearance

Vinyl and linoleum may appear to be somewhat similar materials to the untrained eye, but they start to diverge when it comes to appearance. Here’s how these two materials compare in the aesthetics department:

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is made up of a color layer that’s kept protected by a clear wear layer on the very top of each plank or tile. That wear layer is actually what you walk on. That means that vinyl flooring is extremely versatile since almost any pattern, color or style is possible with vinyl.

Vinyl flooring can even be made to look like other materials including natural stone and wood. Mixing and matching different styles of vinyl is easy, allowing you to create your own unique pattern or craft a decorative border around your room, for example.

Wire-brushed texturing and micro beveled edges create a premium finish. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 5.5mm SPC Click Lock – Vigorous Collection SKU: 15235047

 Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a solid-colored flooring material that generally has much less pattern than vinyl flooring. That means that there are few options when it comes to your room design if you choose linoleum.

One benefit of linoleum when it comes to appearance however is that you aren’t likely to experience color change or fading as the linoleum wears down over time. That’s because every layer of the linoleum is the same color.

For most installations however, this amount of wear is many years down the road. Other damage may occur that facilitates replacement before this point as well.

Best Overall Appearance: Vinyl Flooring

When it comes to overall appearance, vinyl flooring is the clear winner because it can be made to look like just about anything under the sun. If you want the look of natural hardwood without the cost, you can get it using vinyl flooring.

You can also get unique patterns and a range of bright and dark colors that may not appear in natural flooring. That makes vinyl a versatile powerhouse when design is a top priority for your space.

Water and Heat Resistance

Water and heat resistance are important factors when it comes to installing resilient flooring. In commercial spaces and high-traffic areas within homes like the kitchen, mud rooms and powder rooms, a little extra water and heat resistance can make a big difference.

Here’s how the two flooring materials compare when it comes to water and heat resistance:

The perfect alternative to hardwood floor for wet rooms like your kitchen, bathroom or laundry room. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – XL Ridge Collection SKU: 15262452

Vinyl Flooring

Practically waterproof, vinyl flooring is truly the king of waterproof materials. That’s why you see it in many damp spaces like residential basements where moisture might leave some materials buckled or warped. Modern vinyl flooring that includes a backing made from fiberglass is also impervious to mold, mildew and water damage.

Vinyl flooring provides reasonable heat resistance as well, and interior temperatures are unlikely to cause any damage to your flooring installation.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum flooring is a durable, water-resistant material. However, it isn’t waterproof like modern vinyl flooring. It definitely doesn’t compare favorably to modern vinyl flooring with a  fiberglass backing either.

This means that linoleum may not be the best choice for damp spaces like basements. It can be used in powder rooms, but it is more prone to buckling, curling and cracking in wet spaces. Long-term exposure to humidity can also be a concern for linoleum.

Best for Water and Heat Resistance: Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is waterproof and far superior to linoleum when it comes to potential water damage. That makes it a brilliant pick for wet spaces, damp areas like basements and areas of high humidity.

Linoleum edges out vinyl when it comes to heat resistance, but most tests that demonstrate this are quite extreme. Unless your home gets to over 200-degrees, the heat resistance factor is just about the same with both materials. That makes vinyl flooring the more versatile pick and winner in this category as well.

Care and Cleaning

Care and cleaning are both important factors when it comes to a new flooring installation. The good news is that both of these materials are relatively easy to take care of in residential and commercial spaces.

Vinyl Flooring

Incredibly easy to maintain, vinyl floors can be swept and vacuumed for light-duty cleaning daily without showing signs of wear. Almost any detergent will do when it’s time to break out the wet mop for a deeper cleaning as well.

For the best results, a cleaning solution made for vinyl flooring is often recommended.

Linoleum Flooring

Like vinyl flooring, linoleum is seriously easy to take care of. Basic cleaning requires little more than a broom and vacuum. Neither of these tools will scratch or scuff your linoleum.

For wet cleaning, a solution made specifically for linoleum is often recommended. That’s because cleaners with ultra-high pH levels may wear down the surface of your linoleum flooring over time.

Best for Care and Cleaning: Tie

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring are incredibly easy to care for. That’s why these resilient materials are used in kitchens, powder rooms and high-traffic commercial spaces like hospitals and waiting rooms.

The availability of specialty cleaning products for vinyl and linoleum is also high, so getting what you need to care for your floors like a pro is a breeze no matter which option you pick.

Sizes

Vinyl flooring and linoleum materials come in different sizes – some of which may work better for your space than others. Here’s the breakdown on sizing for these two popular flooring materials:

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is typically sold in sheet, tile or plank form. Standard sizing for sheet flooring is six-foot or 12-foot double rolls. Choosing the right one is simple based on your room’s square footage.

For planks and tiles, vinyl typically comes in squares or rectangular shapes that are roughly 9-inches to 18-inches in size. However, as vinyl popularity grows, more sizes are becoming readily available.

Linoleum Flooring

Linoleum sheet flooring, like vinyl, is sold in standard 6-foot and 12-foot double rolls. Linoleum planks tend to be 48-inches long, with a varying width from about 4-inches to 6-inches across.

Best for Size: Tie

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring materials come in sheet, tile and plank designs, making it easy to get the quantity of flooring material you need. Since both materials can be cut with relative ease, there’s no clear winner in the size category.

Installation

Cost of installation is a major factor when you’re installing a new flooring material. If you’re planning to go the DIY route, ease of installation is also extremely important.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl plank flooring, particularly the peel and stick variety, is incredibly easy to install. That’s why it’s a big hit among DIY installers who want to do the work in their own home or place of business. Even glue-down vinyl flooring is relatively easy to work with compared to many flooring materials on the market.

Sheet vinyl flooring on the other hand is relatively difficult to install. However, pros that work with sheet vinyl flooring are fast and efficient, which means paying for installation is relatively cost-effective in this case.

If you like sheet vinyl flooring, hiring pros for installation is a smart choice that won’t run up your bill too much.

Linoleum Flooring

Sheet linoleum, which is quite popular in commercial installations, is very hard to work with. If you go this route, you’ll almost certainly need to hire pros.

Click-lock linoleum flooring is considerably easier to work with, making it a top pick for DIY professionals. However, this type of flooring still requires more patience and time than common peel and stick vinyl flooring.

Best for Installation: Vinyl Flooring

While linoleum can be a reasonable material to work with even if you want to handle installation yourself, vinyl is the winner here because it’s soft and generally easier to deal with for novice installers.

Peel and stick vinyl is also quite easy to cut compared to linoleum, and placing it on the floor is easy to get the hang of in just a day or two.

Cost

Every project has a budget. Whether you’re dealing with a hospital flooring upgrade or redoing your powder room, money is a factor.

Here’s how vinyl and linoleum compare in the dollars department:

Rich, beautiful vinyl planks for less than $2.00/sq ft. Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 5.5mm SPC Click Lock – Vigorous Collection SKU: 15235050

Vinyl Flooring

Ranging from less than $1 per foot to more than $5 per foot for designer styles, vinyl has a wide range of pricing options. On average though, vinyl flooring material costs about $2 per square foot once you factor in the extremes on both sides.

Linoleum Flooring

Coming in at around $3 to $3.50 per square foot on average, linoleum is typically slightly more expensive than vinyl flooring. Linoleum may also cost slightly more to install, particularly if you choose to use sheet linoleum.

Best for Cost: Vinyl Flooring

About $1 less per square foot on average, vinyl edges out linoleum in the cost category.

The Verdict

Both vinyl and linoleum flooring are excellent choices for commercial and residential spaces. Cost-effective and durable, both have become mainstays in design for a reason.

Vinyl flooring, however, is the most versatile material when it comes to appearance. It’s also waterproof, which makes it particularly attractive for residential spaces. It doesn’t require any special cleaning or maintenance products either.

So which material is the king of resilient flooring? We think vinyl is the clear winner here due it’s style, strength and ease of installation and care.

Shop Vinyl Flooring at BuildDirect

Ready to re-do your space or start a brand new design project? Reach out to the trained professionals at BuildDirect today to learn more about vinyl flooring. You can also see our complete inventory of vinyl flooring products online today.

browse all vinyl flooring

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All about loose lay tiles https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/flooring-accessories/all-about-loose-lay-tiles/ Fri, 29 Jan 2021 18:03:37 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=15588 Vinyl is a widely popular material for flooring due to its durability, easy maintenance, and ease of installation. You’ll find this flooring in a range of different formats including luxury vinyl planks, loose lay tiles or planks, and much more. The popularity of loose lay flooring has greatly increased in . . . Read more

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 Superior wear and scratch protection make this range a wise choice for the flooring of your home.  Vesdura Vinyl Planks, Contemporary Collection in
Weathered
SKU: 15239007

Vinyl is a widely popular material for flooring due to its durability, easy maintenance, and ease of installation. You’ll find this flooring in a range of different formats including luxury vinyl planks, loose lay tiles or planks, and much more. The popularity of loose lay flooring has greatly increased in recent years thanks to its versatility and flexibility. Read on to learn more about this flooring, mistakes to avoid, and how you can install it in any environment for a beautiful outcome.

What Is Loose Lay Vinyl Flooring?

Loose lay or loose laid flooring earned its name due to the fact that it doesn’t require fasteners or special mechanisms like tongue-and-groove to install it and keep it in place. The material is constructed of a thick vinyl material that lays directly onto the floor and stays put once it’s completely installed. The flooring relies on friction to keep it in place, and a rubber backing lies directly on top of a smooth, flat surface to give it traction. A benefit of this flooring style is that it can be added directly over existing flooring, and the installation method is easy enough for DIY projects.

Cabot Vinyl Planks, Lowcountry Collection in 
 Prairie
Lowcountry Collection offers the look of a character-rich wood aged by mother nature. Featuring Cabot Vinyl Planks, Lowcountry Collection in
Prairie SKU: 15268085

How To Install Loose Lay Flooring

This flooring comes in several formats including sheets, planks, and tiles. To begin the installation, make sure that the room is at a steady temperature of 65 degrees or higher for at least 48 hours. Remove all furniture from the room and remove the toilet if you’re planning to install this flooring in a bathroom. Next, you’ll need to carefully remove all floor molding so the loose lay tiles can be installed directly against the wall. If the floors are carpeted, you’ll need to remove it along with any padding, then sweep the floor clean to remove all adhesives and debris. You can fill any gaps or low spots using wood filler or a self-leveling compound on concrete floors.

Many loose laid flooring manufacturers include a heavy fiberglass backing that doesn’t require the use of glue or other adhesives. Others may require you to apply a special type of adhesive to the back of the tile or directly onto the floor before installation. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm. Lay the tile out and mix it up to ensure that it looks good in terms of coloring and markings. Start by placing the tiles on the floor at one side of the room against the wall and work your way out until you’ve reached the opposite side. Gently press down on each tile to ensure that it’s securely in place before adding another one. If you end up with excess material, simply use a razor knife to cut away the excess. Check to make sure the floor is level, then reinstall the floor molding and the installation is complete.

Top Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Loose Lay Flooring

While loose lay flooring is quite easy to install, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid in order to ensure a successful installation:

•   An uneven subfloor will cause the loose lay tiles to shift. Always make sure that the flooring is flat and perfectly level before you begin installing the tile.

•   If your loose lay tiles require adhesive, make sure that you apply it to the entire backside of the tile. An adhesive that’s only applied to the center will cause the edges of each individual tile to come loose and curl over time.

•   When using a substrate, make sure that it’s fully adhered to the floor first, or else the loose lay vinyl will not remain in place.

•   Never attempt to install this flooring over the carpet or cushioned sheet vinyl, as it will result in too much movement, causing the new flooring to become loose and uneven.

•   Make sure that the adhesive you use is waterproof, especially when installing this flooring in a kitchen or bathroom.

•   Failing to plan the layout in advance and failing to use a level as you go will result in more unnecessary adjustments, too many cuts, and wasted materials. Always plan the layout in advance, do all of the necessary measurements, and check to ensure that each tile is level as you install the flooring so that it’s perfectly in place.

Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks, Contemporary Collection in Metro Brown
Create an impact with our luxury flooring range. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks, Contemporary Collection in Metro Brown SKU: 15239009

Can you lay loose lay vinyl tiles over tiles?

If you’re wondering whether you can install loose lay vinyl tiles over existing tile, the answer is yes. Make sure that the new flooring won’t be too high for the room, or else it could prevent doors from opening and closing properly. This applies to cabinet doors, baseboards, and floor registers, too. Even if the new loose lay floor doesn’t require an adhesive, it’s best to clean the existing tile thoroughly before installation. Never install loose lay vinyl tiles over a tile that is cracked, loose, or missing. Grout lines should be ¼ inch or less, or else the new tile will eventually press into the grout lines, causing visible marks and lines in the flooring.

Loose Lay Tile Flooring from BuildDirect

As you can see, this type of flooring is durable and easy to install. At BuildDirect, you’ll find a variety of loose lay vinyl options for many different applications. These products are suitable for both residential and commercial applications, making them a wise choice for your next flooring project. Visit our website today to find out more or to request more information.

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How to Avoid Repeat Patterns in Flooring https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/how-to-avoid-repeat-patterns-in-flooring/ Sat, 19 Dec 2020 20:35:30 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=15286 A patterned floor gives a room more visual interest than a wide expanse of uniform color. But if the pattern repeats too obviously, the effect quickly becomes cluttered and unprofessional. The wider the variety in the floor’s pattern, the better the overall look. Here’s what you need to know to . . . Read more

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Peak Collection in Panorama
The durable, waterproof quality of this Vinyl Flooring range makes it a good choice for commercial spaces. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 5.5mm SPC Click Lock – XL Peak Collection in Panorama
SKU: 15269022

A patterned floor gives a room more visual interest than a wide expanse of uniform color. But if the pattern repeats too obviously, the effect quickly becomes cluttered and unprofessional. The wider the variety in the floor’s pattern, the better the overall look. Here’s what you need to know to lay patterned flooring for the most professional results.

Standard Pattern Repeat vs. Drop Pattern Repeat

Although vinyl flooring is generally supplied in tiles or planks, it’s actually manufactured in large sheets and cut to size before sale. You can watch a video of the manufacturing process here.

How often the pattern repeats in the final planks depends on both the size of the original pattern and the size the planks are cut to. Typically, planks have a pattern repeat frequency of around one in five, although premium products may repeat once every eight planks or even less often.

For residential flooring, there are two main ways in which the pattern repeats, known as standard and drop.

– What is a Standard Pattern Repeat?

With a standard pattern repeat, the repetition of the design is uniform. The larger pattern will be laid out in squares or rectangles, and will repeat perfectly when two cuts of the same size are placed side by side. A standard repeat matches from side to side as well as from top and bottom.

This makes it easier to fit repeating patterns which is good for tiles, but less so for planks where a more natural look is desirable.

– What is a Drop Pattern Repeat?

With a drop pattern repeat, the pattern doesn’t match exactly on each side of the initial roll. To get a perfect match, you’ll need to move one piece upward or downward until the pattern edges align. This makes it more difficult to align patterned tiles, for example, but the extra random element makes disguising repetitions in planks much easier.

Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks  Elevation Collection, in Kaaba
Since this Luxury Vinyl Flooring is waterproof, it is an ideal choice for both residential and light commercial applications. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – Elevation Collection, in Kaaba
SKU: 15271446

How to Calculate Square Footage for Flooring

You might think that calculating the square footage of your room will tell you how much flooring you need to buy. Unfortunately, it’s a little more complicated than that, as there’s a subtle difference between ordering for standard and drop pattern repeat.

Ordering Flooring With a Standard Pattern Repeat

For a standard pattern repeat, first measure the length and width of your room. For an example, let’s say your room is 15′ long by 20′ wide. Flooring roll comes in fixed widths, so if the roll you want is supplied in widths of 12′, you’ll need two widths of roll each 15′ long to cover the whole area.

Ordering Flooring With a Drop Pattern Repeat

If you’re using a single roll of drop patterned repeat flooring, then you can simply calculate the length you’ll need. But if you need more than one roll’s width, then you’ll need to allow for the pattern length if you want the rolls to match up.

The first roll you order should be the length of the floor space. The second and further ones should be the floor length plus the whole length of the pattern, in order to ensure you can line the rolls up before cutting them to length.

Romulus Collection in Celestial Shadow
Authentic finishes combined with a WPC wood plastic composite core makes this flooring the ideal alternative to hardwood. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – XL Romulus Collection in Celestial Shadow SKU: 15267767

A Technique for Creating a Stagger Pattern as You Go

A professional tip for creating a stagger pattern is to sort your planks or tiles by color before starting to lay them down. This means that the next plank in the pile is always a close match, giving a more even appearance.

Different LVT Installations

There are three main types of luxury vinyl flooring: tile, plank, and sheet. Sheet is the easiest to fit by lining up the pattern, while a little more care needs to be taken with planks and tiles to get a professional-looking arrangement.

Luxury Vinyl Layouts and Patterns

While vinyl planks and tiles can be laid in any pattern you choose, there are several standards which are often used by professionals.

– Diagonal Pattern: This pattern repeats at a 45-degree angle, giving a dramatic and upscale look.

– Offset Pattern: This is the most common pattern, where tiles or planks are offset by around half their width.

– Stagger Pattern: With this pattern, the vinyl pieces are arranged alternately around a central line, giving an essentially random look. A stagger pattern is particularly effective with two-tone planks, where the same pack contains both light and dark tones of vinyl.

– Grid Pattern: This common pattern sets out planks or tiles evenly and symmetrically for a clean and modern look.

– Corridor Pattern: A variation on the grid pattern, with horizontal rows contained within vertical columns.

– Herringbone Pattern: The planks are fitted at 90-degree angles to give a zigzag appearance.

– Random Pattern: As the name suggests, with a random pattern the aim is to have no obvious repetition or order to the planks.

– Mixed-Width Pattern: This pattern lays down planks of varying widths, for a varied and non-repeating appearance.

Realistic Designs

Today’s vinyl planks can have a highly realistic look thanks to a modern technique of embossing new textural features over the original pattern. With these planks, the pattern is more random and easier to fit without repetition.

Pattern Pride

But whichever design and layout you choose, working to avoid a clearly repeating pattern will give you results you’ll be proud to have achieved yourself, without calling in a professional installer.

FAQs About Avoiding Pattern Repeats in Flooring

– What do I have to do before installation?

To achieve the most random pattern, open your boxes of planks and sort them by color. This will help you pick the right plank quickly when laying them down.

– How do I determine the direction in which to install my laminate flooring?

As a rule of thumb, laminate flooring should be laid to point toward either the main light source or the most-used entrance. If these directions conflict, choose the one that involves less cutting of the laminate boards.

– Do I have to keep staggering the planks in my laminate flooring installation?

Yes. When the patterns line up in adjacent planks, the result is jarring and unsightly. What’s more, if the seams also line up, the strength of the floor can be compromised.

– Should wood floors be horizontal or vertical?

Real wood floors should usually be laid parallel to the longest wall, to maximize the sense of space.

– Which direction do I put down my vinyl plank flooring?

Vinyl plank flooring can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally with good results. However, many professionals recommend putting the planks down in the direction of the main light source for the most attractive finish.

– Which way do you lay vinyl plank flooring in multiple rooms?

Ideally, all connecting rooms should have the planks running in the same direction to give a unified look. If this isn’t possible, laying a transition strip at the doorway can help smooth out the difference.

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Snap Lock Flooring Tips for Pros https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/snap-lock-flooring-tips-for-pros/ Sat, 19 Dec 2020 19:48:32 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=15262 Snap Lock Flooring Tips for Pros Snap lock flooring is a common choice for residential and commercial spaces where a combination of cost-effective, durable, and stylish materials is required. While many people believe snap lock flooring is easy to install, it’s a job that still requires professional installation in most . . . Read more

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Azores Collection in Amber Chalet
Designed with an embossed surface texture, these luxury vinyl planks provide a realistic wood look for your interior design project. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 6mm SPC Click Lock – Azores Collection in Amber Chalet SKU: 15273676

Snap Lock Flooring Tips for Pros

Snap lock flooring is a common choice for residential and commercial spaces where a combination of cost-effective, durable, and stylish materials is required. While many people believe snap lock flooring is easy to install, it’s a job that still requires professional installation in most cases.

Installing snap-in wood flooring or snap together laminate still requires care and proper technique even for pro installers. Use this guide to pick up some tips to help you during your next installation.

Installation Tips for Your Next Job

If you’re a pro installer you already know the basics of installing snap lock flooring, but a refresher course never hurt anyone. Here are some tips you can use to ensure your next job goes smoothly:

Sand Down the High Spots

Prepare your subfloor correctly by finding high spots with a straight edge. Sand them down to create a smooth, level surface. A rise of more than 1/8-inch is too much and needs to be sanded.

Fill in the Low Spots

Fill in the low spots. Like a floor that’s too high, a dip of more than 1/8-inch can cause you problems down the road.

Begin and End with Half a Plank or More

Measure correctly to ensure you begin and end your installation with at least a half plank or more.

Undercut Door Jambs

Undercut door jambs with an oscillating multi-tool. This will allow you to easily slide the flooring underneath.

Leave an Expansion Gap Along the Walls

Use shims to leave an expansion gap along the walls. A 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch gap will allow the flooring to expand and contract based on indoor temperature and humidity.

Snap the Planks Together

Snap the planks together starting with the first row and working from end to end. Install the next planks in each row and continue working in that manner.

Watch Your Floor Height

Door jambs, dishwashers, carpeting and stairs can create problems you didn’t plan for. Take note of these issues if applicable and ensure that you follow proper building codes during installation.

Stagger the Seams

Stagger the seams a minimum of six inches. Avoid starting new rows with planks less than six inches wide.

Azores Collection in Stone Terrace
A smart choice for families with pets and children, these floors will stand up to busy homes, while resisting water damage. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 6mm SPC Click Lock – Azores Collection in Stone Terrace
SKU: 15273675

Tap in the End Plans

Tap difficult seams into place using a pool bar hooked to the end of the plank.

Install Bridge Molding

Install bridge molding to cover the expansion gap between your vinyl plank floors and your base trim.

Around the Door Jambs: Installation Tips

•   Planks parallel to openings: Make sure the seam on the row that intersects the jamb connects inside the opening. You can then blend the second plank into place after marking and cutting it.

•   Planks perpendicular to openings: You may need to install this way if your door opening falls on the same side as where you started installing your flooring rows. When you do this, mark and cut the first plank to size before tapping it under your jamb. Note that you can tap your end planks in sideways and remove up to six inches of lip on the previous plank before filling the cut area with seam sealer.

Install Shoe Molding

Install shoe molding to cover the expansion gap when your flooring is in place. Use 1 1/4-inch finish nails.

Cut and Fit the Final Planks

Finish your installation by cutting the last planks to fit.

Trim Tip

Trim remaining material to ensure a tight, secure fit with a proper expansion gap.

Snap Lock Vinyl Flooring FAQs

Snap lock vinyl flooring is becoming more and more popular each day, but many people have question about this popular flooring design. Here are some of the frequently asked questions we receive and the answers you need to plan your flooring design:

Q: Glue Down vs. Floating: What are my thickness options?

A: 2mm and 3mm thicknesses are common, but materials ranging from 3mm to 7mm are often used as well. Thicker materials are available for some installations however.

Q: Glue Down vs. Floating: What designs are available?

A: Bamboo, wood, vinyl and tile-look designs are available. You can even find a range of more modern prints to fit your space.

Q: Glue Down vs. Floating: Which installation method is best for commercial spaces?

A: Glue down flooring tends to be the best option for commercial spaces. Warranties are often provided for glue down flooring that exceed those of floating flooring.

Why Order Samples?

Ordering samples will allow you to see what your flooring will look like in your home or commercial space. This is particularly important if you’re choosing between similar looks like vinyl made to simulate hardwood.

Getting samples delivered to your home also allows you to see the quality of popular materials and how they’ll work with existing fixtures, furnishings and decorative items in your home or commercial space.

Azores Collection in 
Sanctuary
Along with a high-end appearance, this vinyl flooring offers superior resiliency and is waterproof at wallet-friendly prices. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 6mm SPC Click Lock – Azores Collection in
Sanctuary SKU: 15273672

Warranty Information

Warranties can vary on your snap lock flooring, so it’s important to check with us if you’re concerned about warranty length. However, almost all materials do come with some sort of warranty against manufacturer defect if installed correctly.

Note that improper installation or installing your new flooring in a space it isn’t recommended for – like wet areas or outdoors – can void your warranty.

ROI

Snap lock flooring made from durable materials like vinyl and made to look natural wood offer reasonable return on investment (ROI) in residential and commercial spaces. They also help improve overall visual appeal, making them a smart pick if you’re looking to update a space before selling or renting without spending a small fortune on materials like natural stone or hardwood.

Enjoy better flooring with durable, cost-effective snap lock flooring in a range of different looks. From styles that mimic natural hardwood to real stone and modern tile, snap lock flooring is mad to last and look good in the process. Reach out to our trained representatives today to learn more about snap lock vinyl plank flooring for your home or commercial space. We can help answer all of your questions about choosing and installing the right materials.

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All About Snap Together Vinyl Flooring https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/vinyl-flooring/all-about-snap-together-vinyl-flooring/ Wed, 16 Dec 2020 18:36:02 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=14643 Traditional vinyl flooring consists of low-cost sheets of material used to quickly cover larger areas. However, modern luxury vinyl plank flooring is a completely different proposition. Here’s what you need to know about this high-end, versatile floor material that’s becoming increasingly popular. Why Choose Snap Together Vinyl Flooring? Snap together . . . Read more

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This flooring features a click lock installation for an easy to install application and is FloorScore® certified. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks 10mm SPC Click Lock XL Madison Collection in Empire Black Walnut. SKU: 15272327

Traditional vinyl flooring consists of low-cost sheets of material used to quickly cover larger areas. However, modern luxury vinyl plank flooring is a completely different proposition. Here’s what you need to know about this high-end, versatile floor material that’s becoming increasingly popular.

   

Why Choose Snap Together Vinyl Flooring?

Snap together vinyl flooring offers a uniquely attractive combination of looks, durability, and easy installation at an affordable price. It provides the visual appeal of hardwood or high-end laminate, and is available in a huge range of colors and finishes to fit in with any type of decor, from traditional to contemporary.

Also known as vinyl plank flooring, it’s a material that’s experiencing a surge in sales and is widely available at a variety of price points to suit most renovation budgets.

Easy Installation

Installing a hardwood or tiled floor is a job that’s definitely best left to the professionals. Even laminate flooring needs expertise with cutting and adhesives to ensure a smooth and lasting fit. Snap together vinyl flooring, in contrast, is straightforward to install and can be fitted by any knowledgeable DIY enthusiast.

Snap vinyl planks are supplied cut to width, and click together using a tongue and groove design for stability and a seamless join. The only part of installation where high accuracy is needed is when using a utility knife to cut the end planks for corners and edges. However, installing shoe molding or baseboards can efficiently cover up any smaller gaps.

And finally, snap together vinyl planks are a type of floating flooring, meaning they can be fitted on top of any level subfloor, from wood to concrete or ceramic.

Clean & Comfortable

Vinyl is noted for its combination of softness and durability. It feels comfortable to walk across, thanks to its higher amount of give and flexibility, and is kinder on aching backs and joints. This comfort makes luxury vinyl plank a great choice for a living room.

It’s also completely waterproof, resistant to stains, and easily cleaned with a wet mop. These qualities also make it an ideal flooring material for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other potentially damp rooms.

Pet Friendly

Snap together vinyl flooring’s moisture resistance also makes it a pet-friendly choice. Unlike many other types of flooring, neither accidents nor water or mud brought in from outside will cause any issues. Simply wipe up any mess as soon as possible and the underlying floor will be left spotless.

What’s more, vinyl plank is relatively difficult to scratch or scuff, so it’ll keep its looks for longer when even the most boisterous pets are around.

Learn How to Take Care of Luxury Vinyl Flooring

One of the great advantages of click lock vinyl flooring is how easy it is take take care of. By following a simple cleaning and maintenance routine that only takes a few minutes a day, your floor will be kept looking fresh and clean for years to come.

Everyday Maintenance

This Waterproof Wood Plastic Composite core flooring is a great choice for wet areas. Featuring Vesdura Vesdura Vinyl Planks 12mm WPC Click Lock Ultimate Collection in Desert Oak. SKU: 15271430

Despite vinyl planks’ toughness, dust and dirt can cause scratches if they’re left to build up for too long. To avoid this, simply give the floor a quick sweep or vacuum every few days. Although areas with heavy traffic can benefit from a daily sweep, for most households this level of maintenance isn’t essential.

Regular sweeping or vacuuming should be backed up with a weekly mop, using a mix of warm water and a little dish soap. Follow with a plain wet mop to remove all traces of soap and avoid a streaky finish.

Care & Maintenance Tips

– Use a soft-bristled indoor brush when sweeping rather than a harder outdoor one to prevent scratching and scuffing.
– When mopping, use a microfiber mop rather than a string one to prevent abrasions, and to stop excess water pooling on the surface. Vinyl is waterproof, but pools of dirty water can cause stains if they’re left to stand too long.
– Don’t use a mop with an inbuilt scrubber.
– To get a little extra sparkle back in the floor, add a dash of white vinegar to your mopping mixture.

Scratch & Dent Prevention

Even though it’s a tough and durable flooring material, vinyl snap planks can be scratched or dented by particularly rough treatment. The main culprit is usually furniture, so fit felt pads to the feet to prevent accidental damage. Also, avoid furniture which sits on rollers or casters, as these can easily cause scratching.

Scuffs, Spills & Stains

Spills should be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent staining, simply by wiping them up with plain water and maybe a little soap. But if an unnoticed spill causes a stain, or if an accident causes a slight scuff mark, it’s not the end of the world.

Thanks to snap lock vinyl’s protective wear layer, the damage can usually be fixed easily. Make a smooth paste out of baking soda and warm water, and use a soft cloth to gently buff away the stain or scuff. If this doesn’t work, then some commercial cleaning products can be effective, but make sure they’re rated safe for vinyl flooring: products based on ammonia can damage the protective surface.

Wear Layer (Very Important!)

Snap vinyl planks are made up of four layers. At the base, the plywood backing layer is the rigid core that provides the overall strength and most of the thickness. This is covered by the design layer, which supplies the looks. At the very top is a clear urethane layer which protects against dirt, water, and superficial scuffs.

In between the design layer and the top layer sits the wear layer. This is a thin but tough material which provides the bulk of vinyl plank flooring’s resistance to scuffing, scratching, tearing, and other damage.

Different depths of wear layer are available, with thicker ones providing higher protection but costing a little more.

Low Wear Layer Example

Simple elevating truly beautiful high-end flooring offers superior resiliency. Featuring Vesdura Vinyl Planks 7mm SPC Click Lock XL Proteak Collection in Rain Forest. SKU: 15272298

Wear layers are measured in either mil (thousandths of an inch) or ml (millimeters). For a low-traffic floor, a 12 mil wear layer provides high durability without being too expensive.

High Wear Layer Example

However, for homes with busy families or pets, a higher grade of wear layer is more suitable. 20 mil or more makes a solid choice for most domestic purposes, although commercial grades can stretch to 28 mil or even higher.

Snap together vinyl flooring makes an excellent choice for modern home improvement projects, and with a huge variety of designs available, there’s a look to suit every decor.

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The Benefits of WPC Vinyl Flooring https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/wpc-vinyl-flooring/ Sun, 29 Mar 2020 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=11891 Durable flooring is a must-have in many spaces. From high-traffic residential spaces like entry areas and mudrooms, to very busy public areas including lobbies and waiting areas, longevity is an important factor when choosing a flooring material as well. Vinyl flooring has long been a go-to options when long-term wear . . . Read more

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Durable flooring is a must-have in many spaces. From high-traffic residential spaces like entry areas and mudrooms, to very busy public areas including lobbies and waiting areas, longevity is an important factor when choosing a flooring material as well. Vinyl flooring has long been a go-to options when long-term wear is a consideration.

Vesdura Vinyl Planks - 4mm PVC Loose Lay - Made in America Collection
Autumn / 4mm / PVC / Loose Lay
SKU: 15274141

Today, wood plastic composite, or WPC vinyl flooring, is becoming more and more popular. Engineered to be extremely resilient, WPC vinyl flooring comes in a range of classic and contemporary looks to fit your décor as well. Still, many people don’t really understand what WPC vinyl flooring is all about.

Use this guide to learn more about the benefits of installing WPC vinyl flooring as part of your next building or renovation project.

What is WPC Vinyl Flooring?

Wood plastic composite flooring is an engineered material that is built to be super-strong and extra durable. Here’s how the multiple layers that make up WPC vinyl flooring look from top to bottom:

  • Wear layer. This transparent layer of WPC material provides extra scratch and stain protection to the layers below.
  • Printed film. The printed film layer gives your flooring material the intended look, like natural hardwood for example.
  • Vinyl top layer. This layer of vinyl is used between the composite core material and the printed film that gives your flooring its appearance.
  • Extruded rigid core. Made from wood pulp, plastic and foaming agents, the extruded rigid core of WPC flooring is strong, yet soft under-foot compared to traditional vinyl flooring.
property investment tax benefits

The Top 5 Reasons to Choose WPC Vinyl Flooring

WPC Vinyl Flooring is Easy to Install

wpc vinyl flooring
Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – Gradient Collection in Ampera / SKU: 15181323

Classic vinyl flooring often utilizes an adhesive layer to stay in place on your floor. WPC vinyl on the other hand uses click lock installation, which is very simple to understand even if you’ve never put down any type of flooring before.

This makes it an excellent choice for do-it-yourself installation. Even if you hire professionals, the easy installation process can help cut down on costs.

WPC Vinyl Flooring Feels Good Under-Foot

One of the most common complaints you’ll hear about standard vinyl flooring is that it just doesn’t feel good. Sure, it’s incredibly durable, but you have to give up a little comfort to get the strength vinyl is known for. That’s not true with WPC vinyl flooring material.

With WPC vinyl flooring, the extruded rigid core is made from a composite material that’s considerably softer than traditional vinyl. This gives your vinyl floors amazing strength with a much more pleasant feel.

It’s Waterproof

wpc vinyl flooring
Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 7.5mm WPC Click Lock – Old Town Collection in Lao Shan / SKU: 15260963

When it comes to commercial spaces and high-traffic areas, water can take a serious toll on your floors. Even rain soaked boots and umbrellas can create cracked, warped floors that are dangerous. This is particularly true in commercial spaces with a high volume of daily foot traffic.

In residential spaces, areas like mud rooms and entry areas are also subject to harsh weather repeatedly. The same is true of gym, sauna and other multi-purpose spaces found in many homes. WPC vinyl flooring can stand up to water exposure in these areas because it’s a non-porous material that’s truly waterproof.

What does waterproof flooring mean for you? It means that your floors won’t warp, swell or crack when exposed to spills or even long-term standing water. WPC vinyl flooring won’t shift or become damaged due to temperature or humidity changes either.

A Myriad of Styles and Colors Are Available

Strong, easy to install and waterproof flooring sounds pretty good, right? In high-traffic spaces, those three attributes are extremely important. Of course, none of that means much if you can’t get a style that brings your décor to life while making your space feel a little bit more pleasant in the process.

wpc vinyl flooring
Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – Gradient Collection in Azusa / SKU: 15181324

WPC vinyl planks are available in a wide range of different styles and colors. Popular options include natural hardwood in dark, light and even distressed finishes. These can be used in both commercial and residential spaces, blending in beautifully with your existing design if you’re only upgrading your floors.

Stone-look WPC vinyl, as well as classic printed vinyl styles are available too. For truly modern spaces, an assortment of different prints that are hard to find in other materials are also for sale on today’s market.

With WPC vinyl flooring, you can get just about any look you can imagine for your commercial or residential design.

Care and Maintenance Is Minimal

Some flooring materials like natural stone are incredibly strong, but they require a lot of regular maintenance to look their best. That isn’t the case when it comes to WPC vinyl flooring. In fact, basic care and maintenance is a breeze with this modern material.

General daily cleaning of WPC vinyl flooring requires little more than a broom or microfiber mop. Since it is scratch-resistant due to the top wear layer, using a vacuum also makes basic maintenance fast and easy. This is particularly important in commercial spaces where you’ve got a lot of square footage to care for.

Mopping and spot cleaning makes removing spots or stains and handling spills very easy. Water and basic pre-made products safe for WPC material are all that’s required when wet cleaning. Deep cleaning is rarely required with WPC vinyl flooring, but when it is needed, pre-made products are affordable and very easy to use.

Will You Choose WPC Vinyl?

WPC vinyl flooring is a modern marvel that’s suited to high-traffic commercial spaces and even residential designs. Soft under-foot, yet waterproof and incredibly durable, WPC vinyl can last for many years even in the busiest spaces like bank lobbies, restaurant entry areas and home mud rooms, gyms and spa spaces.

Interested in learning more about WPC vinyl for your next commercial or residential building or renovation project? Reach out to our trained representatives to learn more about this special material today. They can help you understand how and why to use WPC vinyl and if it’s right for your design. They’ll even help you locate the WPC material that matches your design scheme so you can focus on the other elements of your project.

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Kitchen Flooring: Vinyl or Laminate? https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/kitchen-flooring-vinyl-or-laminate/ Sat, 20 Jul 2019 23:15:02 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=10529 The kitchen is one of the most-used rooms of the home and as such, it needs kitchen flooring designed to hold up to the daily wear and tear of life. Grease splatters, spilled food, and melting ice cubes are just a few of the daily occurrences the floors need to . . . Read more

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kitchen flooring

The kitchen is one of the most-used rooms of the home and as such, it needs kitchen flooring designed to hold up to the daily wear and tear of life. Grease splatters, spilled food, and melting ice cubes are just a few of the daily occurrences the floors need to hold up to. When trying to decide whether to install vinyl plank flooring or laminate flooring in the kitchen, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of each option.

Kitchen Flooring: Vinyl Plank

Vinyl plank flooring provides the look of hardwood but the durability you need to use it in high-traffic areas of the home, such as the kitchen.

Cleanliness

Vinyl flooring is easy to keep clean with a simple mop or a steam mop. Because it is waterproof, you don’t need to worry about using water to clean vinyl flooring. Vacuum the floor with a vacuum intended for hard floor surfaces between cleanings for light touch-ups.

Maintenance

One of the best aspects of vinyl flooring is how low maintenance they are. There is no need to ever wax or polish vinyl flooring, as you would with traditional hardwood flooring.

Luxury Vinyl Planks

Vesdura Vinyl Planks – 8.5mm WPC Click Lock – Monterey Collection / SKU: 15257623

Pet-Friendly

The waterproof and scratch-resistant qualities of vinyl plank flooring makes it a great choice for homes with pets. Not only will it hold up to the claws and activity of your dogs or cats, but it is also incredibly easy to clean up any messes that occur.

Durability

Vesdura Vinyl Planks - 7mm WPC Click Lock - XL Himalaya Collection

Rushmore / 7mm / WPC / Click Lock SKU: 15269378

Vinyl plank flooring is desired for its long-lasting durability. Although it generally holds up to daily wear and tear without signs of damage, it can be scratched or dented if heavy furniture or appliances are dragged across the surface. Vinyl flooring offers the added benefit of being completely waterproof, which means there’s no fear of damage caused by spilled water from the refrigerator or dishwasher.

Sizes

Vinyl plank flooring comes in two standard widths. The 4-inch width provides a more traditional look while the wider 8-inch widths are a great choice for larger spaces. Each plank measures 48 inches long. All it takes is a metal straight edge and a razor knife to cut the planks down to size for installation.

Installation

Vinyl plank flooring is incredibly easy to install. In fact, all that you need to cut the product down to size is a sharp utility knife and a metal straight edge. This product comes in two installation types. Floating vinyl floors offer a tongue and groove design that allows them to click together with a few strikes of a rubber mallet. Some vinyl floors are even peel-and-stick in nature, eliminating the need for clicking various pieces together. The peel-and-stick variety can even be used to create an eye-catching accent wall or stand-out ceiling.

Kitchen Flooring: Laminate

Like vinyl planks, laminate flooring provides the look of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. This durable alternative may provide the same overall look but there are some distinct differences between vinyl and laminate flooring.

Cleanliness

A simple steam mop is all it takes to clean laminate floors but don’t reach for a traditional mop and bucket. The amount of water applied by a traditional mop is likely to damage the floors.

Lamton Laminate - 12mm Legendary Collection / SKU: 15162377

Lamton Laminate – 12mm Legendary Collection / SKU: 15162377

Maintenance

Over time, laminate flooring can lose its original luster. Restore the like-new look to your laminate floors by using floor cleaners specifically designed for the product. There are also some laminate products available that can help to reduce the look of chips and scratches that may occur.

Durability

Laminate flooring is designed for durability but it does tend to show signs of wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. You can expect to see light scratches and chips or damage along the edges and corners. Unlike vinyl, laminate flooring is not waterproof and any standing water could cause the planks to bubble or warp.

Pet-Friendly

Laminate is considered a very pet-friendly product as long as the pet is house broken. Any standing accidents are likely to cause damage because laminate is not waterproof. Prevent scratches by making sure to trim the nails of your pets regularly.

Sizes

This flooring option comes in a wide variety of widths from which to choose, starting at a traditional 4 inches and extending to an incredibly wide 16 inches. They arrive in your choice of 36-inch or 48-inh lengths.

Installation

Laminate floor is designed as a floating floor. The tongue and groove design makes it easy to click each piece into place. When installing this product, use a circular saw or hand saw to ensure precise cuts without damaging the flooring.

Protect New Floors with Area Rugs and Orthopedic Mats

Much of the time spent in the kitchen is spent standing at the stove and the sink. Protect the floors from spills and splatters by adding cushioned mats to these key areas. Not only are they softer on the knees, but they will also help to prevent your floors from fading or becoming stained in these areas.

With so many different vinyl plank and laminate flooring options available at Build Direct, it is easy to find a color, size, and style that speaks to the overall design of your kitchen. Keep the look cohesive and make an open concept home appear larger by extending the flooring you choose to the surrounding rooms as well. If you choose vinyl plank flooring, it can even be extended to bathrooms and laundry rooms. Both products can be installed as a weekend warrior project or passed off to the professionals. No matter which one you choose, you’ll have a luxurious floor that provides the look of hardwood while holding up to hundreds of meals cooked.

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Scratch Resistant Flooring for a Busy Household https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/scratch-resistant-flooring-for-a-busy-household/ Sat, 20 Jul 2019 18:52:08 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=10497 The home is the hub of daily life and as such, the flooring needs to be durable enough to hold up to everything the week brings. The flooring is the foundation for the room design and helps to anchor the rest of the decor. Choosing scratch-resistant flooring designed to hold . . . Read more

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For the earthy look of a natural stone surface, this series of glazed porcelain tiles offer a decorative, exquisite style suitable for a variety of spaces. Featuring Takla Porcelain Tile – Desire Series in Black SKU: 15269066

The home is the hub of daily life and as such, the flooring needs to be durable enough to hold up to everything the week brings. The flooring is the foundation for the room design and helps to anchor the rest of the decor. Choosing scratch-resistant flooring designed to hold up to daily life will help to keep your home looking show-room ready years after the flooring is installed. If updating the flooring isn’t an immediate option, a few simple measures will help prevent scratches on existing floors.

How to Prevent Scratches in Flooring

When you already have hard flooring in a home, a few simple actions can help prevent scratches in the first place. Hardwood flooring is especially prone to scratches. With some strategic decorating and preventative measures, it will continue looking great for years to come. Fortunately, most hardwood floors can be sanded down and refinished when necessary, restoring their timeless beauty.

Add Area Rugs in High-Traffic Areas

Jasper Engineered Hardwood - Baltic Oak Collection / SKU: 15001759
Durable elegance. Featuring Jasper Engineered Hardwood – Baltic Oak Collection in Sedona Silver SKU: 15001759

The foyer, living room, and bedroom can be some of the highest-traffic areas in the house. Protect these walked-on areas from scratches and dents by covering them with an area rug designed to enhance the decor of the space. Placing a rug pad beneath the rug will help add a layer of protection and prevent the rug from slipping on the floor.

Leave Your Shoes at the Door

Shoes, especially heels and dress shoes, can easily scratch flooring. Keep a shoe tray, basket, or bench by the front door and always have a place to kick off shoes before walking through the whole house. Seeing shoes by the front door will also remind guests to your home to take off their shoes without you having to request that they do so. Adding a bench or nearby chair provides a comfortable place to slip them back on when you’re about to walk out of the house.

Scratch Resistant Flooring

Keep Your Pets Nails Trimmed

Long nails or claws on dogs and cats can wreak havoc on hard floors. Help prevent those hairline scratches as they run and play by frequently trimming their nails and making sure there are no sharp edges by filing them down. Trimmed pet nails are also more comfortable for the pet. If you have cats, make sure to offer plenty of scratching posts and toys so they are less likely to use flooring and furnishings to scratch.

Choosing Scratch Resistant Flooring

A home should be an active place where you can go through the routine of your day without worrying about scratching the floor. Whether it is just you, a brood of children, or a bunch of furry friends running around the home, the flooring you choose should be durable enough to hold up to all those happy feet. When it comes to choosing scratch resistant flooring for the space, there are plenty of options to choose from. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each one makes it easy to decide which flooring option makes the best choice for your space.

Scratch Resistant Flooring

Ceramic & Porcelain Tile

Ceramic and porcelain tile are some of the most popular flooring options in kitchens, foyers, bathrooms, and high traffic areas. As man-made materials, they are easy to find a full range of colors and styles from which to choose. This includes long, thin planks that offer the look of hardwood with a much more scratch-resistant surface. Tile is not only scratch resistant, it is water resistant as well. For the most durability, look for tile with a rating between PEI 3 and PEI 5. Testured tiles work well in wet areas because they have more slip resistance than smooth and polished ones.

For the earthy look of a natural stone surface, this series of glazed porcelain tiles offer a decorative, exquisite style suitable for a variety of spaces. Featuring Takla Porcelain Tile – Desire Series in Brown 12×24 / SKU: 15269070

Luxury Vinyl Planks

Like ceramic tile, luxury vinyl flooring is waterproof and appropriate for any room of the home. It also adds the benefit of being easy to install as a do-it-yourself project. Vinyl plank flooring can vary from one product to another. Look for a highly-durable one designed for heavy residential or commercial use. They are long-lasting, won’t swell when exposed to water, and don’t scratch or dent easily. This affordable product comes in a wide variety of looks to choose from. Vinyl tile flooring resembles the look of tile or stone. Vinyl Plank flooring looks just like your favorite hardwood species.

Vinyl flooring is highly durable with a luxurious feel. Featuring Cabot Vinyl Planks – 5mm SPC Click Lock – Redondo Collection in Oak Bluff SKU: 15270215

Vinyl

When compared to their solid and engineered hardwood floor counterparts, vinyl planks offer an affordable option to those who want the look and surface texture of hardwood. The main benefit of vinyl planks is their durability and water resistance, making them ideal for any room in your house or commercial space.

Vinyl flooring is available in many different patterns and you can opt for vinyl flooring that mimics wood, stone, or ceramic appearances. Not only is it ideal for DIY installations, but it will also withstand spills and accidents from your pets.

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How to Test Vinyl Flooring Samples https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/how-to-test-my-vinyl-flooring-sample/ Sun, 23 Jun 2019 13:00:14 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=10475 The floor is the foundation of any room design and one of the most expensive components of any space. Feel confident about your investment test vinyl flooring samples to know they are right for your taste and your space. Putting them through some easy tests will help you decide if . . . Read more

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test vinyl flooring sample

The floor is the foundation of any room design and one of the most expensive components of any space. Feel confident about your investment test vinyl flooring samples to know they are right for your taste and your space. Putting them through some easy tests will help you decide if they are right for you. When browsing the materials available, make sure to choose samples in various color tones, finishes, and styles. Sometimes, the colors you are drawn to online aren’t the ones you fall in love with when they are in the space. Branch out and choose some samples you may not initially be thinking about.

Once samples are in hand, put them through a variety of tests to make sure they will hold up to the rigors of daily life. Before you begin, make sure to really think about how the space is used and what you need the floors to hold up to. Make your tests the most extreme of circumstances and you’ll have the peace of mind that you chose the ideal vinyl floors for your space. Not sure if vinyl is the right option? Complete these same tests against multiple flooring types, including engineered hardwood and hardwood. Then you can see how the products stack up against one another.

Test Vinyl Flooring Samples Before You Commit

Can it Resist Stains?

Whether you live alone or have a brood of children, spills are inevitable. Take the flooring samples and test them against coffee, mud, drinks, and spaghetti sauce. Clean up the spills right away and then repeat the test. Allow the stains to stay on the surface of the vinyl for longer the next time. Make sure to clean up the mess using the same cleaners you would typically choose for your floors. Make sure the cleaners themselves don’t alter the look of the finish or leave a residue that would be problematic if the floors were running throughout the whole room.

Is it Durable?

look and feel of floor samples

Daily life can be hard on floors. Test the durability of your flooring samples by putting them through the paces with a variety of different situations. Walk on them in high heels, scratch them with keys or something pointy, try dropping something like a weight on them, or jump on them in cleats. Inspect each sample after your tests to see what, if any, marks are showing. It is one thing to read about the durability of a product but seeing it for yourself is something entirely else.

Subject it to Temperature Changes

Every climate is different. Subject your samples to a variety of temperatures and humidity levels. Make sure that the flooring does not buckle, swell, or warp in the various temperatures. If you are using vinyl in a specific room, make sure to place the samples in that room for a day or two to see how the flooring reacts in the space. This is especially important if the flooring is intended for a basement.

Compare Colors in Various Lighting

test vinyl flooring sample

The look of the vinyl flooring is incredibly important. Because flooring is an investment, it is important to select a color that looks great now but will also stand the test of time. Place each sample in different rooms of the home. Compare them against the wall color, trim color, cabinetry, and furniture in your home.

Natural light and artificial light can cause the color of the flooring to look very different. Move the samples throughout the home and look at them in various lighting situations. Samples placed under a window or in front of a sliding glass door will look different than samples placed in a laundry room or closet void of natural light. The light can also vary greatly at different times of day. Look at them in the morning, mid-day, and evening to make sure you like the look of the color at all times.

Consider Comfort

Vinyl flooring comes in a variety of different finishes. Make sure it is comfortable in shoes, socks, and bare feet by walking over the flooring samples. Some vinyl flooring features an integrated underlayment while others require additional underlayment. Keep this in mind when walking over the samples. Some vinyl flooring is smooth while others feature more of a textural design to mimic the look of wood or stone. Smooth floors can be slick if you walk around in socks. Textured floors can sometimes feel a little rough on bare feet. Test them out to see which finish you prefer.

Is It Waterproof?

Vesdura Vinyl Planks - 8.5mm WPC Click Lock - XL Renaissance Collection / SKU: 15198443

Many types of vinyl flooring boast waterproof designs. This feature can be incredibly important when they featured in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Pour water on top of the sample and allow it to sit. Come back and look at the product later to see if the water caused any damage. Check out any integrated layers with the sample and make sure the water didn’t damage any portion of the construction.

Selecting flooring can seem like an overwhelming decision but when you take the time to test the possible flooring samples in a variety of ways, it is easy to know you are making the right decision with your material selection. Take a few minutes to consider how the use of the space and put your samples through any tests that reflect how the flooring will be treated when it is fully installed in the home.

browse all vinyl flooring

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Entryway Floor Options That Can Withstand Heavy Traffic https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/flooring/the-best-floors-for-your-entryway/ Sun, 09 Jun 2019 13:00:46 +0000 https://www.builddirect.com/learning-center/?p=10404 The foyer is the first impression your home gives to every guest who enters. It sets the stage for the rest of your home. As such, it is also one of the highest-traffic rooms in the home and subject to more moisture, dirt, and debris than any other space. With . . . Read more

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The foyer is the first impression your home gives to every guest who enters. It sets the stage for the rest of your home. As such, it is also one of the highest-traffic rooms in the home and subject to more moisture, dirt, and debris than any other space. With the right floor in place, your entryway can look as though it jumped off the pages of your favorite decorating magazine.

Entryway Flooring Options

Decorating any entryway requires a flooring that offers the ideal combination of durability and style. Color, style, daily maintenance, and whether or not the flooring requires professional installation or not all factor into which entryway flooring will best suit the needs of the home. All of the flooring materials listed below make a great choice for this much-used part of the home. Check out the pros and cons of each to make the best decision for your space.

Ceramic and Porcelain

Cabot Porcelain Tile – Dimensions Series / SKU: 10089152

Ceramic tile and porcelain tile are two of the most popular flooring options. Not only are they one of the most affordable flooring options, but they are also resistant to moisture, muck, and grime. They are easy to sweet and mop clean and don’t easily show signs of wear. When the entryway is part of an open-concept home, the same tiles can be continued throughout the living, dining, and kitchen areas for a seamless effect.

Because ceramic and porcelain tile are man-made materials, they come in a full range of color and finish options. There are even tiles designed to look like wood planks, granite, and other natural stone varieties. The versatility of design makes it easy to achieve any overall design style.

Luxury Vinyl

Cabot Vinyl Planks – 5mm SPC Click Lock – Redondo Collection in Oak Bluff / SKU: 15270215

You never have to fear tracking in rain, snow, or mud when there’s luxury vinyl planks in the entryway. This high-end synthetic wood material offers the texture, color, and look of hardwood with the added benefit of being completely waterproof. It is easy to install over a wide variety of different subfloors, making it ideal for a quick renovation project.

This material is easy to cut to size using a sharp utility knife, making it easy enough to take on as a do-it-yourself project. Simply click the tiles together and finish the floor with new quarter-round. There’s no need to seal or grout luxury vinyl tiles. This budget-friendly flooring options I often much less expensive to install than ceramic tile, natural stone tiles, or engineered hardwood because the material is affordable and professional installation is optional.

Slate Tile

entryway floor slate
Cabot Cabots Slate Tile in Montauk Blue / SKU: 15270662

Slate is a natural stone material that is a popular choice in outdoor spaces. It’s great for decks and home facades because of its ability to hold up to the elements, which makes it a great option for use inside the home as well. Slate tile is going to be more of an investment that ceramic, porcelain, or luxury vinyl but it will also become a statement-making addition to your interior décor. It is also a great choice for resale, as many home buyers are interested in natural tile flooring.

Engineered Hardwood

Jasper Waterproof Engineered Hardwood Celestial SPC Click-Lock Collection in Cancer / SKU: 15270025

Engineered hardwood floors give the look of hardwood with additional benefits built right in. Not only are they much more budget-friendly than traditional hardwood, but waterproof engineered hardwood now exists. Make sure to check the individual specifications of the engineered hardwood to determine the durability of the product in high-traffic areas of the home like the entryway floor.

Bamboo

entryway floor bamboo

When it comes to making an environmentally-friendly choice for a home, bamboo is an excellent choice. Not only is bamboo natural and sustainable, but it is also an incredibly durable flooring selection. The versatile design of the material makes it suitable for use in the entryway, living areas, and many other spaces throughout the home. Like hardwood flooring, bamboo comes in a wide variety of finish options, making it easy to achieve the same elegance of natural wood with much more durability. Unfortunately, bamboo is not a great choice for homes in extremely cold or dry climates. It is also prone to showing scratches, especially if pets are present. Using an area rug over bamboo floors can help prevent scratches.

Protecting Your Entryway Floors

Simply adding a welcome mat or area rug over the entryway floor goes a long way to extending the lifespan of the flooring chosen. Rugs are inexpensive and easy to change out seasonally or whenever they start to show signs of wear. Keep a rug pad under the rug to help prevent the rug from shifting or moving with foot traffic. Putting down a tray for shoes and boots will help to keep any mud and muck contained and off the surface of your entryway floors. This is especially important when hardwood floors or any other flooring options that are not waterproof or water resistant.

Each flooring material offers a wide array of color and style options from which to choose. Consider the daily use of the space, the number of rooms requiring flooring, and the overall budget of the project when making final selections. Be sure to factor into the equation all installation costs and supplies. With new flooring in place, the foyer is sure to become an inviting entryway to the rest of your home.

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