Best PVC Vinyl Flooring: Pros, Cons & Top Brands
Looking for the best PVC vinyl flooring? Explore the pros, cons, and top brands in this personal story about choosing the perfect flooring. Learn about durability, cost, and installation tips to make an informed decision.
My Journey to Finding the Perfect PVC Vinyl Flooring
When my husband and I decided to renovate our home, we quickly realized that choosing the right flooring was one of the most critical decisions. We wanted something durable, stylish, and budget-friendly. After researching numerous options, we found ourselves drawn to PVC flooring. It promised longevity, ease of maintenance, and a modern aesthetic. However, as with any major home improvement decision, we needed to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
In this blog, I will take you through our journey of selecting the best PVC vinyl flooring, exploring its advantages and disadvantages, and highlighting some of the top brands that stood out.
What is PVC Vinyl Flooring?
PVC flooring, also known as polyvinyl chloride flooring, is a synthetic flooring material that mimics the look of wood, stone, or tile. It comes in various forms, including sheets, tiles, and planks, making it a versatile choice for different spaces in a home. The material is known for being water-resistant, durable, and easy to install, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
The Pros of PVC Vinyl Flooring
1. Durability and Longevity
One of the main reasons we chose PVC flooring was its exceptional durability. Unlike hardwood floors, which can scratch and warp over time, PVC vinyl flooring is resistant to wear and tear. This made it a perfect choice for our living room, where our kids and pets often play.
2. Water Resistance
Living in a region where humidity is high, we needed flooring that could withstand moisture. PVC flooring is highly water-resistant, making it a great option for our kitchen and bathroom. Unlike traditional wood, which absorbs moisture and swells, PVC vinyl remains intact and unaffected by spills.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
Budget was a major factor in our renovation. PVC flooring turned out to be an affordable alternative to hardwood and stone without compromising on aesthetics. We were able to achieve the high-end look we wanted without exceeding our budget.
4. Easy Maintenance
With two children and a dog, we needed a flooring option that was easy to clean. PVC vinyl flooring only requires regular sweeping and occasional mopping to maintain its appearance. This made our lives significantly easier compared to our previous carpeted floors, which required deep cleaning.
5. Comfort and Sound Absorption
Unlike ceramic tiles or hardwood, PVC vinyl flooring has a softer surface that provides a comfortable feel underfoot. Additionally, it absorbs sound, reducing noise levels—an important feature for our busy household.
The Cons of PVC Vinyl Flooring
1. Potential for Discoloration
One of the drawbacks we noticed was that prolonged exposure to sunlight could cause discoloration. To prevent this, we decided to use area rugs in places with direct sunlight and opted for UV-resistant coatings.
2. Not Eco-Friendly
As we became more environmentally conscious, we realized that PVC flooring is made from synthetic materials that are not biodegradable. However, some brands now offer recyclable options, which we explored further.
3. Susceptibility to Dents and Scratches
Although PVC flooring is durable, heavy furniture or sharp objects can cause dents and scratches over time. To mitigate this, we used furniture pads and avoided dragging heavy items across the floor.
Top Brands for PVC Vinyl Flooring
1. Shaw Floors
Shaw Floors is a well-known name in the flooring industry, offering high-quality PVC vinyl flooring in various styles. Their products are known for their durability and waterproof features, making them a great option for busy households like ours.
2. Mohawk
Mohawk’s PVC flooring options combine affordability with style. We found their planks easy to install, and their scratch-resistant surfaces were a big plus for us.
3. Armstrong Flooring
Armstrong offers some of the most innovative designs in PVC flooring. Their luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) provided a premium look that closely resembled hardwood and stone.
4. COREtec
For those looking for waterproof and sound-absorbing flooring, COREtec is a great option. Their flooring is designed for long-term performance and is ideal for high-moisture areas.
5. Mannington
Mannington’s PVC flooring stood out for its eco-conscious approach. Their products use low-VOC materials, making them a healthier choice for families concerned about indoor air quality.
Installation Tips for PVC Vinyl Flooring
When we decided to install PVC flooring, we debated whether to hire professionals or take on the project ourselves. Fortunately, many brands offer easy DIY installation options. Here are some key tips we learned:
Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and level before installation.
Use Adhesives if Necessary: Some vinyl sheets require adhesives, while click-lock planks do not.
Leave Space for Expansion: Allow a small gap around the edges to accommodate slight expansion due to temperature changes.
Seal the Edges: In moisture-prone areas, sealing the edges helps prevent water from seeping underneath.
Final Thoughts
Choosing PVC vinyl flooring was one of the best decisions we made during our home renovation. It offered us the perfect combination of style, durability, and affordability. While there are a few drawbacks, they are manageable with proper care and maintenance. Whether you're considering new flooring for your home or business, PVC vinyl flooring is undoubtedly worth exploring.
If you’re on the hunt for a high-quality, cost-effective flooring solution, I highly recommend researching different brands and weighing the pros and cons. Investing time in choosing the right flooring now can save you money and hassle in the long run.
Have you ever installed PVC flooring? Share your experience in the comments below!
