Technology is constantly presenting us with new options when it comes to finishes and materials for home décor. One of the more interesting and versatile is vinyl flooring which nowadays has little in common with the rather basic vinyl roll product from previous years. Benefiting from advances in material technology and design aesthetics vinyl flooring is being specified for high-end contract and domestic use around the world. In the case of vinyl Nature can be improved upon with stone, timber and other life-like finishes now available.
New generation vinyl flooring is a quality and versatile floor finish
The new generation vinyl floor is available in planks and tiles some of which (the Linkfloor range) are suitable for wall cladding. The advantages are numerous, vinyl flooring is hard wearing, resistant to moisture, easy to install as well as easy to maintain. With regard to questions on how to go about laying vinyl flooring and laying vinyl flooring tiles we have put together a short check list below.
Preparation before laying vinyl flooring
Whether it be LVF (Luxury Vinyl Flooring), Linkfloor or WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) the principles for laying vinyl flooring are the same. Preparation is the most important step, part of which is ensuring that the vinyl has been stored in the space where it is to be laid for a minimum of 24 hours.
Vinyl flooring and Substrate
Vinyl flooring can be laid directly on wood or concrete, providing that the surface is thoroughly dry. It is even possible to lay certain types of vinyl flooring directly over ceramic tiles, the WPC type for example. However it is essential that any unevenness or gaps be filled to achieve a flat and even surface. Sound proof layers can be added if required.
The tools required and getting started
Have the following tools at the ready; tape measure, pencil, cutter, adhesive tape, spirit level, saw, spacers, nylon block and hammer. First lay the damp proof membrane and foam underlay in strips, overlapping at the edge and taped securely in place. Starting from one end lay the planks or tiles 1 cm from both walls (using the spacers). Cut tiles as required and start the next row with the left over tile ensuring a minimum of 30 cm overlap between adjacent tiles of the previous row. The nylon block helps to secure jointing of the tiles and the spirit level will ensure a true line. End by cleaning with a suitable product.
How to lay vinyl flooring in the bathroom
Vinyl flooring is particularly suitable for humid environments, as it is easy to clean and resistant to impact. In terms of how to lay vinyl flooring around a toilet create a paper or cardboard template of the toilet base and after laying the complete tiles around it use the template to cut the remaining tiles to size. This method can be used for laying vinyl around the WHB pedestal and any other bathroom artefacts. For how to lay wet room vinyl flooring.
How to lay vinyl flooring in the kitchen
Another great advantage of vinyl flooring is its resistant to heavy foot traffic, this makes it an excellent choice for kitchens. Especially around the triangulated work area which is subject to most wear and tear in the kitchen. Remove the skirting trim and lay the planks up to the metal support legs of the kitchen cabinets and appliances. Start laying the tiles or planks from the wall furthest from the entrance door in the same direction as the main light source. The modern vinyl floor is textured for anti-slip and can be easily cleaned with standard cleaning products. In addition it’s warm under foot unlike ceramic tiles. Another option for kitchen (and living areas) flooring laid in a similar fashion to vinyl is parquet flooring.
