Vinyl Flooring Melbourne: A Guide
Vinyl flooring is the choice for you if durability and longevity are important when deciding on your new floor. There are a few different styles of vinyl flooring so you can have the ideal floor that you have always wanted. Gone are the days when vinyl flooring meant large, ugly sheets of vinyl in a single lacklustre colour. With today’s superior printing technology, vinyl can be produced to look any way you desire. Now vinyl is as much an option for luxury floors as it is for cheap floors. Vinyl flooring is the perfect choice for homeowners looking for versatile durable, and inexpensive flooring. With proper installation, Vinyl flooring is high resistant to all nature of spills, dents, scratches and stains. It is available in a massive range of styles, textures and patterns, including styles that mimic other flooring types such as wood or natural stone. The waterproof nature of this style of floor has always been its main benefit, vinyl is considered the most waterproof flooring available with the least chance of water damage. Due to this asset of vinyl flooring, it is most often found in bathrooms and kitchens, as water damage is often more likely in these places. With young children especially, making sure timber or floors stay dry is a real hassle. Installing vinyl floors means that you can have peace of mind from knowing that your floor looks great, and does not have the potential to be damaged every time someone takes a bath or shower. It is a great option for you, no matter what your preference for design.
What is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is available as either sheet flooring, plank flooring or tile flooring. Sheet flooring literally comes in giant rolls, and must be cut down to size based on the measurements of the room as taken by the installer. Installing sheet vinyl is the hardest of the two methods due to the planning, measurement and skills needed to cut the sheet correctly. Sheet vinyl should be preferred if the room you are laying the vinyl in is damp or is known to receive much moisture. As it is simple one solid sheet of flooring there are no joints for moisture to edge its way in and potentially damage your floor. You can also have a more coherent design than is generally possible with tile / plank vinyl flooring. This is because the design can be printed as it will be laid, whereas with tiles and planks, you will have to lay it out as you go. On the downside, if your sheet vinyl flooring is badly damaged, you have no option but to replace the whole floor. One commonly lauded feature of vinyl flooring is its sound bufering. Floating floors have the unenviable trait of sounding hollow when you walk on them, an echo can be heard from even the lightest foot. This is because even with underlay, there is usually a gap between the flooring and the subfloor. Vinyl does not have that gap, so it is much quieter to walk on. Tile / plank vinyl flooring is generally more expensive than sheet vinyl, but it is easier to install. This point can’t really be laboured enough, as it really is easy to install compared to sheet vinyl. If you have a small area that needs to be floored, then vinyl tiles are your best choice.
How is Vinyl Flooring Made?
Vinyl flooring is composed of a top layer of vinyl, which is formed by mixing certain chemicals using a high heat. The two main ingredients of the vinyl mixing process are Vinyl Ester and a solvent. Vinyl Ester is a synthetic resin, The solvent is added to the newly formed resin to make the substance more flexible and akin to plastic. The result of this process is a thick foam that resembles cake mixture. This mixture is then laid onto a backing. This backing is usually similar to a felt underlay, otherwise it can be made of high-density timber pulp. Once the mixture has been spread evenly over the backing, these materials are now baked in oven. When in the oven, the vinyl sets on top of the backing and forms a consistency much like plastic. Next, the freshly warmed vinyl goes through to the printing press where the chosen design gets printed onto the malleable layer of vinyl. If an embossed pattern is called for, they are etched onto the flooring also. This is achieved by giant presses with raised patterned sheets which are firmly pressed into the vinyl.
Another layer of vinyl is then added over the freshly printed layer. And it is put back into the over where the layers merge together, creating a clear and aesthetically pleasing result. This layer is often referred to as the wear layer as it is the part of the floor that takes the brunt of traffic and wear. The final layer gives the vinyl a gloss, so if the vinyl is not intended to have a glossy finish, this step is left out of the process.
The next part of the process depends on what form of vinyl flooring is needed. This process has already created a sheet of vinyl flooring, so if tiles are needed then they must be cut down to size and an installation method must be added to them.
How is Vinyl Flooring Made?
Vinyl flooring is composed of a top layer of vinyl, which is formed by mixing certain chemicals using a high heat. The two main ingredients of the vinyl mixing process are Vinyl Ester and a solvent. Vinyl Ester is a synthetic resin, The solvent is added to the newly formed resin to make the substance more flexible and akin to plastic. The result of this process is a thick foam that resembles cake mixture. This mixture is then laid onto a backing. This backing is usually similar to a felt underlay, otherwise it can be made of high-density timber pulp. Once the mixture has been spread evenly over the backing, these materials are now baked in oven. When in the oven, the vinyl sets on top of the backing and forms a consistency much like plastic. Next, the freshly warmed vinyl goes through to the printing press where the chosen design gets printed onto the malleable layer of vinyl. If an embossed pattern is called for, they are etched onto the flooring also. This is achieved by giant presses with raised patterned sheets which are firmly pressed into the vinyl.
Another layer of vinyl is then added over the freshly printed layer. And it is put back into the over where the layers merge together, creating a clear and aesthetically pleasing result. This layer is often referred to as the wear layer as it is the part of the floor that takes the brunt of traffic and wear. The final layer gives the vinyl a gloss, so if the vinyl is not intended to have a glossy finish, this step is left out of the process.
The next part of the process depends on what form of vinyl flooring is needed. This process has already created a sheet of vinyl flooring, so if tiles are needed then they must be cut down to size and an installation method must be added to them.
Vinyl Flooring Melbourne Prices
Vinyl flooring is composed of a top layer of vinyl, which is formed by mixing certain chemicals using a high heat. The two main ingredients of the vinyl mixing process are Vinyl Ester and a solvent. Vinyl Ester is a synthetic resin, The solvent is added to the newly formed resin to make the substance more flexible and akin to plastic. The result of this process is a thick foam that resembles cake mixture. This mixture is then laid onto a backing. This backing is usually similar to a felt underlay, otherwise it can be made of high-density timber pulp. Once the mixture has been spread evenly over the backing, these materials are now baked in oven. When in the oven, the vinyl sets on top of the backing and forms a consistency much like plastic. Next, the freshly warmed vinyl goes through to the printing press where the chosen design gets printed onto the malleable layer of vinyl. If an embossed pattern is called for, they are etched onto the flooring also. This is achieved by giant presses with raised patterned sheets which are firmly pressed into the vinyl.
Another layer of vinyl is then added over the freshly printed layer. And it is put back into the over where the layers merge together, creating a clear and aesthetically pleasing result. This layer is often referred to as the wear layer as it is the part of the floor that takes the brunt of traffic and wear. The final layer gives the vinyl a gloss, so if the vinyl is not intended to have a glossy finish, this step is left out of the process.
The next part of the process depends on what form of vinyl flooring is needed. This process has already created a sheet of vinyl flooring, so if tiles are needed then they must be cut down to size and an installation method must be added to them.
Vinyl Flooring Melbourne Prices
The main factor that influences the price of vinyl flooring is the style of flooring that you choose. Sheet vinyl is cheaper than tile or plank vinyl but you must remember that it is harder to install. And when it comes to installation deciding whether you do it yourself or pay an installation team is another key influence on the cost of vinyl flooring. If you choose to install the floor by yourself, there are a few other factors that need to be considered. If you are installing sheet vinyl, then you will need to buy vinyl flooring adhesive. This can range in price from $25 – $100 per tub, and how much you buy depends on the size of the floor space that needs to be covered.making sure you have the right tools for cutting down and trimming your new floor is key too, if you are not a seasoned DIYer then these items could add up to be more expensive than paying for an installation team. An average price for an installation team to install your vinyl sheeting floor is $50 per square metre.
Book CQ Flooring’s installation team for the chance to have Melbourne’s finest on the job.
If you decide to install tile / plank vinyl flooring yourself then it is easier than sheet vinyl but don’t be fooled, any flooring project will take at least most of one day’s labour up. The cost of installing tiles / planks yourself is much reduced when compared to sheet vinyl. This is due to the fact that all you have to do is peel the vinyl away from the paper backing and stick it to the floor. How much does vinyl flooring cost to install? Vinyl flooring prices for installation are generally $20-$30 per square metre.
When it comes to vinyl tile flooring there is another factor that can influence whether or not you buy the cheapest vinyl flooring Melbourne has to offer. In recent years new technology has meant that luxury vinyl tiles are now available. These are extra durable, extra waterproof and are competitive in comparison to the more expensive laminate flooring.
It is possible to find bargain vinyl flooring, but as with any product, you generally pay for what you get. The quality and value of vinyl flooring can be judged by the warranty that is provided when you buy it. The longer the warranty the manufacturer provides, the better quality you can assume the vinyl is. As with any flooring purchase, discount vinyl flooring does exist, but must be thoroughly inspected before purchase.
Book a visit from CQ Flooring’s mobile showroom to browse potential floors from the comfort of your home.
Best Melbourne Vinyl Flooring Brands
Winton Vinyl Flooring
Winton offer discount vinyl flooring products that are easily available at major Australian DIY outlets. Winton offers its products with a variety of installation methods, so your preferred method of installation can be found. With many available printed patterns and styles and a wide array of embossed textures to choose from you are sure to find the Winston Vinyl Flooring that best suits your home.
Gerflor Vinyl Flooring
Gerflor vinyl flooring comes with a 15 year warranty as standard, this shows the faith that they invest in their own product. It also reveals the quality that this vinyl floor is made with. The specialised compact structure that these floors are made with ensue that they are optimised for scratch prevention
Benefits of Installing Vinyl Flooring Melbourne
Design Options
With Vinyl flooring, the design options available to you are virtually endless. It is available in nearly any colour, pattern or style. This makes it a viable choice for homeowners looking for a versatile flooring option that can be tailored specifically to their design needs. This type of flooring also comes in an array of patterns that are identical to other flooring types, like stone, wood and tiles. It is also available in a range of textures.
Vinyl flooring can be installed in either planks or tiles, providing further options for how you want your flooring to look like. Non-slip finishes are also available as a further safety measure.
Low Maintenance
Vinyl flooring is easy to maintain and keep clean. The only maintenance required is keeping the dirt and grit off the floor with regular sweeping. For stains, a mop and vinyl floor cleaner is all that is needed.
Water Resistant
Vinyl flooring is almost entirely resistant to water penetration, making it the most efficient flooring for high moisture areas such as kitchen floors, bathroom floors and laundry floors.
Durable
Vinyl is
known for being highly durable. However, its important to take into
account that the durability of vinyl flooring lies in a large part with
the installation. If installed correctly over the right subfloor, Vinyl
flooring is highly durable, lasting as long as ten to twenty years or
more.
In terms of durability, the
quality of the vinyl you choose also plays a part. Solid vinyl and
composite vinyl tiles in particular are highly resistant to scratches
due to having colours in every layer. By contrast, printed vinyl is more
susceptible to damage, being only as resistant as the surface layer.
Fiberglass vinyl is the most durable material of all, as well as being
highly malleable. If you choose to go ahead with vinyl tiles rather than
planks, tiles that get damaged can be easily removed and re-installed
with new tiles at a minimal cost.
Installation
Both vinyl tiles and vinyl planks are easy to install. However the correct subfloor is very important, not only for the installation of the vinyl flooring, but also for its durability. If the right subfloor is used – one that is dry and level – vinyl flooring can last upwards of twenty years.
Installation of vinyl flooring is easy enough that you can do it yourself. However, due to the correct subfloor being crucial to the durability of your new floor, it can be more worth your while to have your vinyl flooring installed by a professional, who will ensure your subfloor is sufficiently dry and level.
Cost
Vinyl
flooring is much cheaper to buy and install than many other flooring
materials. Its low price is particularly attractive as it can very
efficiently mimic the appearance of other flooring materials, such as
wood or stone. Therefore, you can achieve the attractive aesthetic of a
wood or stone floor at a fraction of the price.
Vinyl floors are also hugely economical because of their long lasting durability, as well as their low maintenance costs.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl Flooring Pros
Waterproof Typically,
vinyl flooring planks are made up of up to 4 sheets. It is the top
sheet that acts as the waterproof barrier and ensures that your flooring
does not get damaged. The benefit of having a floor that you know will
stand up to any amount of water is one that vinyl holds over its
contemporaries.
Looks Great With so many
choices at your fingertips, you have no reason to go for a boring floor.
Today’s printers ensure that whatever your choice, your floor will
match the vision that you have for your room. From authentic looking
wood grain to art deco masterpieces, Vinyl flooring can be as graceful
or as loud as you wish.
Lasts a Long While Installing good quality vinyl ensures that you can expect your floor to last around 15-20 years of daily use. Knowing that your floor can last a long while and not lose its lustre can help you make a worry-free flooring decision.
Vinyl Flooring Cons
Subfloor Must be Completely Smooth Before installation begins, the subfloor of your chosen room must be flat, with no bulges or dents and it can have no debris. If you install vinyl flooring with these items present, you compromise the future of your floor. If you are installing your new floor DIY then you must be patient and make sure that you complete the job successfully, first time.
Not the Easiest to Keep Clean It is not advisable to use a vacuum cleaner on vinyl flooring as the head of the vacuum can scratch the vinyl. We suggest mopping and using a brush when your floor needs a clean. Polishing your vinyl floor intermittently helps to prevent it from looking dull, but make sure you do your research and purchase a polish that is best suited to your specific floor and usage
We Suggest
Due to the sheer amount of options available for vinyl flooring, it is one of the most versatile flooring choices for your home. We suggest installing 1930s inspired vinyl in your bathroom. Having tasteful patterns in unintrusive colours makes for a classic and elegant look which adds a certain touch of class.
Vinyl Flooring FAQ
What Is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is a flooring material specifically designed for premium durability and highly versatile style. The design options with vinyl flooring are virtually endless, with many variations of wood, ceramic, and stone styles available, as well as many others.
Will Vinyl Flooring Dent and Scratch?
Yes, vinyl flooring may dent and scratch. Vinyl flooring is very tough against denting and scratches, however this does not mean that it is impossible to scratch or dent. If the floor is taken care of properly, the dents and scratches it accumulates should be minimal.
How Durable is Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is extremely durable. It is not affected by surface moisture like most other floors are, such as hardwood. Its resistance to moisture makes it the perfect choice in flooring for areas with water exposure, such as kitchens, laundry rooms and bathrooms. The degree of durability your vinyl flooring has lies largely in part with the correct installation (see below) and quality of the vinyl you choose.
How Easy is Installation of Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring is easy to install, both in planks and in tiles. However it is essential that you use the correct sub-floor, as this is crucial to maintaining the floors high durability. Please take this into account if you do choose to install your vinyl floor yourself and make sure your sub floor is completely dry and level.
Can I Sand and Polish Vinyl Flooring?
No, it is not possible to sand and polish vinyl flooring as it is not wood. However, that being said, sanding and polishing vinyl floors is not needed like it is with solid timber floors. This is due to it being engineered specifically for premium durability, with its long lasting wear layer helping with resistance to scratching and denting.
Is Vinyl Flooring Easy to Clean?
The maintenance of vinyl flooring is amazingly easy; in fact, this is one of its most attractive benefits. All it requires is a regular sweep to keep dust and grime from the surface of the floor. Stains are also easy to clean, with a mop being all that is needed.
Where Can Vinyl Flooring be Installed?
Vinyl flooring is highly versatile as it can be installed virtually anywhere. The most important thing to remember in installation is a suitably dry and level. As long as this is taken into account, you can install vinyl flooring anywhere in the house – basement, bathroom, living room, whatever takes your fancy. The most common areas for vinyl flooring are areas like basements and bathrooms due to its moisture resistance.
Is Vinyl Flooring Water Resistant?
Vinyl flooring is resistant to water penetration, making it a great choice of flooring for areas at risk of water spills and moisture exposure, such as bathrooms.
What is The Lifetime of a Vinyl Floor?
Vinyl flooring can last anywhere from 5 to 30 years. Both the quality of the vinyl you choose, and how well it is taken care of, will have big effects on the lifespan of your vinyl floor.
How to Install a New Vinyl Floor
Vinyl floor installation is one of the
very easiest floors that you can install. Because the vinyl planks have a
sticky material on the back of the vinyl, you require less tools and
less time then other forms of flooring installation.
As with all flooring installation jobs, your first step should be to
sweep and clean the subfloor. This is important because any blemishes on
the this layer will be visible once the vinyl has been successfully
installed.
Once the floor has been cleaned, measure the space you intend to install
over. times the width of your room by its height and add 10%.
Next, lay down an underlay. This is what you will stick your vinyl
planks to, it also acts as insulation and makes your floor more
comfortable to walk on.
Now place your first plank in one corner of the room and continue adding
the planks in a straight line. To stick the vinyl planks down, first
remove the protective film covering the sticky side and then firmly pus
down on the vinyl to stick it to the underlay. Simply carry on laying
your planks down next to each other until the opposite side of the room
has been reached.
Any corners or overhangs which are found in the room must be measured,
then cut a perfectly matched indent into the vinyl plank so it will
snugly against the wall. And there you have it, your new vinyl floor has been successfully installed.