We look at some of the most common misconceptions about vinyl flooring and set the record straight.
Vinyl flooring has gained immense popularity over the past decade, thanks to its affordability, durability, and design versatility. However, a number of myths continue to surround vinyl flooring, causing some homeowners to be hesitant about using it.
Vinyl flooring looks cheap and unattractive
One of the most common myths is that vinyl flooring looks cheap and lacks aesthetic appeal. This notion is outdated. Modern vinyl flooring, especially luxury vinyl planks and luxury vinyl tiles, can realistically mimic the appearance of natural materials like hardwood, stone, and ceramic. Advanced printing technology gives vinyl products realistic textures and designs that often make them indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. With a range of colours, patterns, and textures available, vinyl flooring can enhance any style of interior, from rustic to contemporary.
Vinyl flooring is not durable
Contrary to popular belief, vinyl flooring is highly durable and can withstand heavy traffic in both residential and commercial spaces. While earlier forms of vinyl might have lacked durability, today’s vinyl products are engineered to last. Luxury vinyl planks, for example, are made from multiple layers that include a protective top layer, a wear layer, and a rigid core, which makes them resistant to scratches, stains, and dents. High-quality vinyl floors are water-resistant or even waterproof too, making them ideal for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. With proper care and maintenance, vinyl flooring can easily last 10 to 20 years or more.
It is difficult to maintain
Some believe that vinyl flooring is challenging to maintain, but in reality, vinyl floors are some of the easiest to care for. Unlike hardwood that requires frequent polishing and protective treatments, vinyl floors need only routine sweeping and occasional mopping. Since they are water-resistant, spills can be wiped up easily without fear of warping or staining. However, to prolong their lifespan, it’s best to avoid abrasive cleaners, which can degrade the protective layer. Overall, vinyl flooring is low-maintenance and requires only simple cleaning. Read more in How to clean vinyl floors – a guide for pet owners.
It releases harmful chemicals
Concerns about indoor air quality and the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have led to a misconception that vinyl flooring is unhealthy. While it’s true that older vinyl products sometimes released harmful VOCs, today’s vinyl flooring products are much safer. Most modern vinyl flooring is produced with low or zero VOCs, meeting strict safety standards set by regulatory bodies, which allows homeowners to feel confident about choosing vinyl flooring without compromising their indoor air quality.
It can’t be used in high-traffic areas
A common misconception is that vinyl flooring is only suitable for low-traffic areas due to wear concerns. In reality, vinyl is specifically engineered to withstand high-traffic environments and is widely used in commercial spaces such as offices, restaurants, and retail stores. Luxury vinyl planks include enhanced protective layers that resist scratches, dents, and daily wear. Additionally, since vinyl is water-resistant, it handles moisture and spills better than many other types of flooring, making it a reliable choice especially for high-traffic homes with children and pets.
Vinyl flooring has evolved significantly over the years, both in terms of quality and design. Modern vinyl products offer a range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for a variety of settings. By dispelling these myths, homeowners can make more informed choices and enjoy the advantages that vinyl flooring brings to their spaces.
Pet-friendly vinyl flooring from Floors for Paws
At Floors for Paws, we offer three ranges of vinyl flooring:
The Pawsafe Domestic range – developed alongside vets and CAM (Canine Arthritis Management), the Pawsafe Domestic range is the best flooring for dogs currently on the market. With the highest slip rating available, this superior quality flooring has 5 layers for durability including a comfort layer plus a generous wear layer. See here for all the options available.
The Pawsafe Commercial range – Ideal for any commercial premises, including veterinary surgeries, dog day care centres, pet grooming parlours, and pet-friendly cafes, the Pawsafe Commercial range is supplied as a sheet vinyl option; this offers a durable and waterproof solution for establishments that experience high volumes of traffic. Find out more in our Guide to commercial non-slip vinyl flooring.
The Luxury Vinyl range – our selection of luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) is a realistic looking flooring option for anywhere in the home. With advanced designs in a choice of wood- or stone-effect finishes, this is the perfect flooring for anywhere in the home.
To find out more about flooring from Floors for Paws, email us at info@floorsforpaws.com or call 01522 300218.
