Vinyl flooring can be one of the most rewarding types of materials to have in your home because it comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns. It is also relatively inexpensive, for the level of durability it can offer, especially if you have a family and/or pets that will be putting your vinyl through its paces.
Of the benefits of vinyl (or PVC) flooring, the two most important are certainly the ease of cleaning, and the ease of general maintenance associated with the material.
Vinyl flooring is truly a durable material, but it really does need to be maintained properly if you want to keep it looking new. First of all, when it is initially installed, it is very important to let the adhesives cure and the sealant to completely dry along the seams before allowing foot traffic. Seams, if done right, should be invisible for the life of your vinyl floor, so make sure to leave at least 48 hours of curing time before using the area. And don’t think about rolling any big things on the floor for at least five days or there is a risk that the marks will be permanent.
When it is time to bring furniture onto your new floor, make sure you have thick felt pads affixed to the chair and table legs, and that you evenly distribute the weight of very heavy items with smooth plywood as you move them (appliances, etc.).
Looking at clean-up, there are several things to remember when you encounter a spill, stain, or tracked dirt and grime on your vinyl flooring. For dirt, use a soft broom or a sweeper that has no beater, as it can scratch the finish on your vinyl flooring. For grimy messes, or sticky spills, use a wet cloth and a mild detergent to remove. And any time you clean with a detergent, it is always a good idea to rinse the area with fresh, clean water to avoid leaving a residue. Soapy residues can dull the built-in luster of your vinyl flooring, or result in a dry film over the top finish.
Vinyl flooring is popular precisely because it is inexpensive and easy to maintain. So keep your floor looking fantastic by taking a few precautions, and cleaning with care.
