Vinyl is one of the easier flooring materials to work with and install. Vinyl comes in sheets, rolls or can also be purchased as individual tiles. Although many homeowners think that installing vinyl flooring might make a good DIY project. However, some vinyl flooring has the peel away back with sticky adhesives already attached while others may require that you apply the adhesive yourself, and this could make installation a lot tougher. To top it all off, measuring and cutting your material to fit around pipes, drains, cabinetry and other tricky areas could be a real issue. That’s why professional installation should be your first option if you want to create the finish you really imagined.
Advantages of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is low-maintenance and relatively easy to care for. Simply using a damp cloth or mop should be enough to keep the surface clean, and you also need to ensure that grit and other pieces of dirt are swept away the easily maintain the floor’s surface. Vinyl is also water-resistant, making it perfect for the bathroom, laundry rooms, kitchen, or any other area that might experience excessive moisture. A well-installed vinyl floor should be totally water resistant.
Furthermore, vinyl is a relatively inexpensive material that can mimic the look of more expensive materials. You can find this product in a number of styles that simulate a specific type of wood, such as oak, hickory, and several others. Vinyl is very durable too, so it stands up well in areas that experience heavy foot traffic. When properly installed, vinyl flooring can last up to 20 years, but this will largely depend on the quality of material that you’ve purchased.
Cons of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl is a product of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This material emits volatile organic compounds (VOC), especially when the product is new. Since 2010, however, many manufacturers have started using less PVC in the production of their product, but it is still prevalent in many manufacturer’s flooring. Although durable and easy to maintain, vinyl flooring can easily be damaged by sharp objects.
Installation of vinyl flooring can become problematic due to the subfloor preparation that is required. If the subfloor is not properly cleaned and prepped, peel-and-stick vinyl tiles will not last. Repair can also be extremely problematic when tearing and rips damage the floor. This type of flooring is obviously less appealing than hardwood or stone flooring, and it doesn’t offer much in terms of a home’s resale value.
How Much Will It Cost To Install Vinyl Flooring?
The overall cost to install some vinyl flooring will depend on several factors. On average, however, for a 200 sq ft area, expect to pay in the region of about $700, This is based on the costs of materials for a DIY project if you have the necessary experience. Should you opt for some professional assistance, the price will fluctuate depending on your location and the contractor you choose to work with.
Ultimately it will come down to the exact type of type of vinyl flooring you choose. Keep in mind that different patterns, textures, and even the durability of the product will inevitably all make a difference in the price.
An estimated average price for the sheet or roll of vinyl flooring should cost anywhere between $3-$5 per sq ft, but it’s highly recommended that you compare estimates from local contractors to get a more accurate idea of what you should be paying for your particular project.