Waterproof Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide

13 May.,2024

 

Waterproof Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide

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Like you, many homeowners are eager to add beautiful wood or stone-look vinyl flooring to their abodes. That’s because vinyl has become one of the most popular flooring choices, and for lots of stellar reasons. 

We’ve come up with an in-depth guide full of helpful and informative details on vinyl flooring so that you can make the best decision for your space. But, before you start tearing up your carpet or old tile, you’ll want to learn about the characteristics, style choices, and installation methods of waterproof vinyl flooring. 

Get ready to increase your knowledge and excitement for your new waterproof floors!

What Is Waterproof Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring is partly comprised of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. This durable plastic makes up one of the several layers that comprise the planks or tiles. 

There are multiple options for waterproof vinyl, but not all options are going to give you the moisture-resistance you need. Before we get into the different types of flooring, let’s discuss some key commonalities among all vinyl planks and tiles. 

Windsor Isle Luxury Vinyl Tile

Waterproof Vinyl Flooring Thickness

The thickness of vinyl flooring is measured in millimeters. Previously, vinyl planks with a hefty thickness indicated that your flooring would be sturdier and stronger. Yet, newer technology has changed the need for super thick floors with the creation of stone-plastic composite (SPC) vinyl flooring. Since the core is created from a stone-plastic composite, it’s an extremely durable option that comes in thin planks, so you get the strength without the bulk.

Since thickness doesn’t always indicate sturdiness, you shouldn’t always go with the thickest flooring. One of the most important factors regarding the density of vinyl is to choose flooring that matches with your existing floors to keep everything as level as possible without a noticeable transition.

Waterproof Vinyl Flooring Wear Layer

One of the most important features of your new waterproof vinyl flooring is the wear layer. This durable coating is the outermost layer and helps protect your vinyl floors from things like scratches, scuffs, dents, and even stains. 

There are different ratings for how thick the wear layer is, and it’s measured in mil, not millimeters. A rating of 6 mil, 12 mil, or even 20+ mil for high-traffic areas is suitable for residential use. A rating of 12 mil is suitable for light commercial use, while 20+ mil is commercially rated and best for businesses with high-traffic areas. 

Whether you have rough and tough kids or pets or constant foot traffic, the thicker the wear layer, the longer your vinyl flooring will last. Choose the thickest one that your budget allows, no matter if it’s for a residential or commercial project. 

Driftway Smithcliffs

Underlayment for Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Some luxury vinyl products come with an attached underlayment. If your flooring doesn’t, then adding one will help with sound dampening, protect the subfloor, and make it softer underfoot. Both foam and cork underlayment options are common picks. However, they do come in various thicknesses, and adding underlayment or even one that is too thick could void your warranty. Please make sure to check with your manufacturer first before adding an underlayment. 

Types of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Initially, you may think all vinyl is the same, but there are some critical differences in terms of its construction. Vinyl flooring is, for the most part, water resistant, with new and improved technologies creating floors that are more resistant to water and moisture than they have been in the past. 

With three main categories available, you’ll learn about luxury vinyl planks (LVP), stone-plastic composite vinyl planks (SPC), and wood-plastic composite vinyl planks (WPC). 

Luxury Vinyl Planks

Luxury vinyl planks have a rigid core construction that’s very durable. Luxury vinyl is available in the easy locking system or glue-down installation methods. Interestingly, there are even some luxury vinyl peel-and-stick types, but it should be noted that there isn’t an industry standard for what defines “luxury” in luxury vinyl. Typically, LVP includes a durable wear layer, a realistic design, a thick vinyl layer, and attached backings that are not included on all LVP products. 

Most luxury vinyl planks are 100% waterproof, but it may vary per brand or installation method. LVP is a strong material that can handle the everyday wear and tear from kids, pets, and high traffic. They come in a wide range of design styles, including realistic wood or stone looks as well as decorative designs. DIYers of any level should be able to install the easy interlocking planks, yet professionals are recommended for glue-down planks because of the more intensive subfloor prep and longer installation time. 

Wood-Plastic Composite Vinyl Flooring

Wood-plastic composite vinyl flooring is 100% waterproof luxury vinyl flooring. What sets this product apart is its waterproof core that combines wood with plastic. The four-layer WPC vinyl construction is extremely tough yet flexible enough to offer a little give below your feet. 

It can be installed in any room or level of the home, including wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms as well as basements. Because of its thick construction, it can be installed on top of imperfect subfloors. It’s one of the most popular choices for commercial installations because of its durability. 

Stone-Plastic Composite Vinyl Flooring

Stone-plastic composite vinyl flooring is another 100% waterproof option. The difference between SPC and WPC vinyl flooring is the core. This rigid core features a super dense stone-plastic core, so it’s very tough. But, because of its strength, it won’t provide as much softness as WPC.

SPC vinyl planks can also be installed anywhere because of its waterproof properties, so it can easily be installed in wet areas or basements. Its durability and rigid core make it ideal for commercial spaces or other high-traffic areas, and heavy furniture isn’t likely to dent or damage the flooring, which makes it an even more ideal option. 

Ashton Maracay Brown Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Styles of Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

No, vinyl flooring doesn’t all mimic wood! It actually comes in a wide spread of colors, styles, and designs. It’s a very versatile flooring option; you’ll be able to choose from wood looks, stone styles, or decorative patterns. That means there’s something for every design aesthetic!

Wood-Look Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Yes, wood-look vinyl planks are definitely a popular style when it comes to vinyl flooring. One of the biggest benefits of luxury vinyl tile is the look of real hardwood without the worry of warping or maintenance required by actual wood. 

Wood-look waterproof vinyl comes in various shades and wood-inspired types that mimic maple, oak, teak, hickory, and many more. You can also choose from light blondes to gray tones to rich hues, and in addition to the coloring and patterns making you do a double take, the textures will have you completely convinced. From more simplistic styles to beachy vibes to super rustic, there’s something for your modern and contemporary, coastal, and farmhouse designs. 

Stone-Look Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

Luxury vinyl stone looks are available in both floor tile and plank form. Natural stones, such as travertine to slate, are becoming more popular in plank form, and it gives a twist on these mimicked natural materials that are considered more traditional. You’ll even see concrete styles in vinyl flooring, which is perfect for those wanting something super industrial or majorly modern. Soon, you can expect to see more stone planks taking over some of the wood-look market.

Want more information on wpc waterproof flooring supplier? Feel free to contact us.

Decorative Waterproof Vinyl Flooring

When a space needs something more distinctive or bolder than hardwood or natural stone styles, look to decorative vinyl planks. These waterproof flooring options come in such a wide variety, from geometric patterns to metallic looks to stained glass styles. It’s an excellent choice for someone who doesn’t want to stick with neutrals, as it will definitely set your residential or commercial space apart from the rest with unique designs, colors, and patterns. 

Want to learn how waterproof vinyl flooring can add elegance and charm to your next home improvement project? Contact the experts at MSI now via convenient live chat, locate an authorized MSI retailer near you, or stop by an MSI showroom to browse products in person.

4 Pro Tips For Buying Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Rigid core luxury vinyl flooring is engineered to have greater durability and dimensional stability than traditional vinyl flooring.  

Whether you’re renovating a laundry room or an entire law office, rigid core luxury vinyl is a first-rate choice.

Easy-to-install, 100% waterproof, comfortable, attractive, and sturdy, rigid vinyl flooring is one of the most popular flooring options on the market today.

But picking out the right rigid vinyl floor can take time. To help you speed up the process, here’s 4 pro tips to help you find flooring you love.

1.     Select Your Core Type & Thickness

Selecting a core type and the overall floor thickness is one of the first steps toward finding your dream floor.

When it comes to the floor’s core, you have two main choices: SPC (Stone Plastic Composite) and WPC (Wood Plastic Composite). Both are engineered to perform and remain fixed in place. They also come with a commercial grade wear layer.

The main difference between the two cores is that WPC gives you a softer feel than SPC; however, SPC is stronger and more resilient against dents and changes in temperature.

The thickness you choose is also important. Products that are at least 4mm thick with an SPC or WPC core are strong enough to hold up a pool table. For the best long-term performance, go with a product that’s at least 4mm thick and choose a core based on your preference for enhanced comfort (WPC) or durability (SPC).

2.     Investigate the Wear Layer Quality

The wear layer makes all the difference in the long-term appearance of your floor. The better the wear layer, the greater resistance the surface of your floor will have against scratches and abrasions. You probably already know that wear layer thickness is a good indicator of durability, but did you know that wear layer quality is equally important?

You can have two products each with a 20-mil wear layer, but one will wear through more quickly because it has a lower quality coating protecting the surface.

A high-quality wear layer significantly increases your floor’s durability. You can quickly determine wear layer quality by investigating the additives the manufacturer uses to increase wear layer hardness and durability.

When you investigate the wear layer, take note of what’s included. Does the coating contain any aluminum oxide? Ceramic nanoparticles? Additives like these give you much greater resistance against UV rays, stains, scratches, and abrasion.

A luxury vinyl manufacturer will typically market the uniqueness of their wear layer as a proprietary coating that stands out from the competition. For example, COREtec has ArmourBead® and Happy feet has ZeroMark®.

Thickness being the same, proprietary coatings will outlast lower-priced, generic polyurethane coatings. When you’re looking at different products, you will want to choose a high-quality coating if you want the floor to last.

How thick of a wear layer do you need?

A 6-mil wear layer is good for light foot traffic. It’s suitable for a home with two adults. A 12-mil wear layer is effective for residential spaces with an active family. And a 20-mil layer or greater is the standard for commercial spaces, such as cafes with heavy foot traffic.

3.     Plan Your Transitions

When you’re installing your vinyl floor, transitions are key for a seamless and beautiful floor. There are many options for vinyl floor transitions, so you need to know

  1. what you’re transitioning to
  2. the height difference from one floor to another
  3. the color you’re looking to match

We recommend the new, easy, and popular style of aluminum transitions for their simplicity and effectiveness. They come in three different colors. But if you think the aluminum strips detract from the décor, there’s many alternatives available to get you the look you want.

4.     Install Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Like a Pro

You can install vinyl flooring on just about any subfloor, even concrete, tiles, and plywood. Make sure whatever subfloor you have is as flat and even as possible, without divots, or you’ll eventually run into issues.

It’s also smart to install a vapor barrier beneath the vinyl to prevent any moisture from getting trapped under the floor. If the floor you’re installing over has a thick layer of epoxy, know that the epoxy will not be a guaranteed vapor barrier. It’s best to use a vapor barrier to be sure.

Choose underlayment wisely. If you want to avoid a floor that feels like you’re walking on concrete, choose underlayment with added cushioning or make sure your vinyl flooring product comes with an attached pad.

The underlayment is the layer between the flooring and the subfloor. Many products come with an attached underlayment, and some products can have additional underlayment. Read the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure you don’t void the warranty.

For a floor with maximum comfort and sound deadening properties, you will want to become familiar with the options available, which will depend on your subfloor and the floor you choose.

We recommend Whisper Step as the underlayment of choice for rigid vinyl floors. If you have a concrete subfloor, we also recommend installing a 6 mil plastic sheeting for a moisture barrier.

For more information, please visit homogeneous flooring wholesale.